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Turkey Smash Burgers Recipe

Turkey Smash Burgers Recipe


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4.5 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Juicy turkey smash burgers deliver ultimate backyard grilling excitement with crispy edges and bold flavor. Melted cheese, tangy sauce, and fresh toppings make this quick meal a summer sensation you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 500 g (1 pound) ground turkey (93% lean recommended for juiciness)
  • 4 burger buns (toasted)

Seasoning and Spices:

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Toppings and Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for cooking)
  • Sliced cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone)
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Red onion slices
  • Pickles
  • Your favorite condiments (mayo, ketchup, mustard, or spicy aioli)

Instructions

  1. Blend ground turkey with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing vessel.
  2. Fold ingredients delicately, ensuring minimal manipulation to preserve the meat’s delicate texture and prevent compacting.
  3. Portion the seasoned turkey mixture into four uniform spheres, each weighing approximately 125 grams, handling the meat with a light touch.
  4. Shape each meat ball into a loose, rustic patty, creating a slightly indented center to prevent bulging during cooking.
  5. Prepare a heavy cast-iron skillet or griddle by heating it to medium-high temperature, allowing the surface to become scorching hot.
  6. Gently place the turkey patties onto the searing surface, allowing ample space between each to facilitate proper caramelization.
  7. Press down each patty firmly with a sturdy spatula, creating the signature “smash” technique that generates crispy, lacy edges.
  8. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes until the bottom develops a rich, golden-brown crust with crispy perimeter.
  9. Flip the patties carefully, cooking the opposite side for an additional 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches safe consumption levels.
  10. Transfer the smashed turkey burgers to waiting toasted buns, garnishing with preferred condiments and fresh toppings.

Notes

  • Gently handle the ground turkey to maintain a loose, tender texture that prevents dense, tough burgers.
  • Consider using a cast-iron skillet or griddle for maximum crispy edges and beautiful caramelization on the turkey patties.
  • Add a splash of olive oil to the meat mixture to enhance moisture and prevent the lean turkey from becoming dry during cooking.
  • For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of Worcestershire sauce and ensure all spices are certified gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg