Barefoot Contessa’s Juicy Turkey Burger Recipe for Summer

Turkey burgers offer a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional beef patties that will surprise and delight you.

Ina Garten’s signature approach transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary with carefully balanced flavors and textures.

Each carefully crafted bite combines lean protein with rich, aromatic herbs and vegetables that create depth and complexity.

The method ensures juicy, tender results that challenge preconceived notions about poultry-based sandwiches.

Mushrooms and shallots contribute earthy undertones that elevate the burger beyond basic expectations.

Worcestershire sauce adds unexpected umami notes that make these burgers irresistibly savory.

Fresh parsley brings brightness and color to the mix, creating a well-rounded culinary experience.

You’ll be amazed by how simple ingredients can produce such remarkable results: dive into this delicious adventure.

What Goes Into the Turkey Burger

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Turkey: Lean protein base that provides the main structure and flavor of the burger, choose fresh and high-quality meat for best results.
• Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness to keep the turkey burger tender and prevent dryness.

• Dijon Mustard, Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika: Comprehensive spice mix that enhances the burger's depth of flavor and provides balanced seasoning.
• Chopped Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, clean taste and subtle green color to the burger mixture.

• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the burger, helps create a golden-brown exterior and prevents sticking to the pan.

How to Make a Juicy Turkey Burger

Step 1: Gather Fresh Ingredients

• Ground turkey
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Mixture

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl, mixing gently to preserve the turkey’s tender texture. Stir until seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

Step 3: Shape Perfect Patties

Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, then form the mixture into four uniform patties. Press gently to create even thickness, about half an inch tall.

Step 4: Prepare Cooking Surface

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the pan to warm up evenly, creating the perfect searing environment for your burgers.

Step 5: Cook To Golden Perfection

Place patties in the hot skillet, cooking for approximately 5 minutes on each side. Look for a beautiful golden-brown exterior and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the hot, juicy burgers to serving plates. Pair with your favorite sides like crisp salad, sweet potato fries, or fresh coleslaw for a complete meal that’ll make everyone’s taste buds dance.

Turkey Burger Cooking Hacks

• Moisture Magic: Wet hands slightly when shaping burgers to prevent sticky fingers and create uniform patties that cook evenly.
• Heat Harmony: Stick to medium heat for perfectly golden burgers that are juicy inside and beautifully caramelized outside.
• Spatula Restraint: Avoid pressing down on burgers while cooking to keep all those delicious juices locked inside the meat.
• Resting Ritual: Give your cooked burgers a 2-3 minute breather to redistribute juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
• Herb Helper: Opt for fresh parsley to boost flavor, or swap with fresh coriander or basil if parsley isn't on hand.

Keeping Leftover Burgers Fresh

• Cool Completely: Let turkey burgers reach room temperature before storing to prevent moisture buildup and potential bacterial growth. Moisture can make patties soggy and compromise their delicious texture.
• Vacuum Seal Method: Invest in a vacuum sealer for maximum freshness and freezer protection. This technique removes air completely, preventing freezer burn and extending storage life up to 4-5 months instead of standard 3 months.
• Individual Wrapping Technique: Separate each burger with parchment paper or wax paper before placing in freezer bags. This prevents burgers from sticking together and allows easier single-serving removal without thawing entire batch.

Fun Turkey Burger Remix Ideas

• Herb-Infused Turkey Burger: Replace parsley with a mix of fresh thyme, rosemary, and basil for an aromatic herb explosion.
• Mediterranean-Style Turkey Burger: Add crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and dried oregano to the meat mixture for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger: Incorporate diced jalapeños, ground cumin, chili powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper to create a bold, zesty burger with a kick.
• Asian Fusion Turkey Burger: Mix in minced ginger, chopped green onions, soy sauce, and sesame oil for an umami-rich alternative that transports your taste buds to Asia.

Turkey Burger Recap for Foodies

Barefoot Contessa’s Turkey Burger Recipe weaves culinary magic through simple ingredients and precise techniques.

Mediterranean-inspired flavors dance across palate landscapes with each carefully crafted bite.

Ground turkey transforms into succulent patties that promise restaurant-quality satisfaction from home kitchens.

Gourmet experiences await those willing to explore this delightful recipe’s nuanced approach.

Finally, you should try it soon, then spread deliciousness across social platforms, and let culinary creativity shine through your kitchen adventures.

Why Turkey Burgers Are Worth It

• Boost Flavor Complexity: Packed with an incredible blend of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard that transform ordinary ground turkey into a taste explosion, making every bite interesting and delicious.
• Master Effortless Cooking: Simple one-bowl mixing method means anyone from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs can whip up these burgers in minutes, with foolproof techniques that guarantee a perfectly cooked meal without complicated steps.
• Create Healthier Comfort Food: Lean ground turkey provides a lighter protein alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a guilt-free option that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction while delivering essential nutrients.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner Champion: Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish, these burgers solve the weeknight dinner dilemma with a fast, delicious solution that feels like a gourmet meal but requires minimal preparation and cooking time.

Barefoot Contessa Turkey Burger Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Ina Garten’s turkey burger delights with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, blending ground turkey, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese. Succulent and zesty, you’ll savor this delightful twist on classic grilled patties that promise a memorable meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 1 ¼ pounds 85% to 93% lean ground turkey

Vegetables:

• 1 large portobello mushroom cap
• 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped shallot
• 3 tablespoons lightly packed fresh parsley

Dairy and Condiments:

• 8 thin slices manchego or white cheddar cheese
• 4 English muffins, split
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• Dijon mustard
• Mayonnaise
• Sliced avocado

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Meticulously remove the dark gills from underneath the mushroom cap using a spoon, ensuring a clean surface for preparation.
2. Dice the mushroom cap into uniform 1-inch (2.54 centimeters) pieces and transfer them to a food processor.
3. Add finely chopped shallot and fresh parsley to the processor, then pulse until the ingredients are uniformly minced.
4. Empty the processed mushroom mixture into a spacious mixing bowl.
5. Incorporate ground turkey, extra virgin olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
6. Delicately combine the ingredients using clean hands, mixing until just integrated without overworking the meat.
7. Portion the mixture into 4 equal sections, gently forming each into a loosely packed patty approximately 4 inches (10 centimeters) wide and 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) thick.
8. Arrange the patties on a large plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help them maintain structural integrity.
9. Preheat the grill to medium heat (approximately 375°F or 190°C) and lightly brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
10. Place patties on the grill and cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes to develop distinct grill marks.
11. Rotate the patties 90 degrees to create crosshatch grill marks, cooking for an additional 4 to 5 minutes.
12. Carefully flip the patties and continue grilling until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), approximately 6 to 7 minutes.
13. During the final 3 minutes of cooking, top each patty with 2 slices of cheese and cover with an aluminum pan to facilitate even melting.
14. Lightly toast the English muffins on the grill until they achieve a golden-brown color.
15. Spread a thin layer of tangy mustard and creamy mayonnaise on each toasted muffin half.
16. Transfer the cheese-topped patties onto the prepared English muffins.
17. Garnish with freshly sliced avocado for added creaminess and nutrition.
18. Serve immediately and savor the complex flavors of these gourmet turkey mushroom burgers.

Notes

• Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness, ensuring the turkey reaches 165°F without becoming dry.
• Create uniform patties by shaping them to an even 1-inch thickness for consistent cooking throughout.
• Spice up the mixture with hot sauce or jalapenos to add an exciting flavor kick for heat lovers.
• Swap mushrooms with grated zucchini or chopped eggplant when you want alternative moisture-rich ingredients.
• Gently combine turkey mixture to prevent tough, dense patties that lose their delicate texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg