Okay, friend—get ready, because these grilled turkey burgers are about to become your summer (or anytime!) go-to. We’re talking juicy, flavorful patties with just the right char, plus a dreamy avocado mayo that makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Perfect for weeknights, easy dinners, or backyard hangouts. Let’s fire up that grill!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These burgers came to life during a week when I needed something healthy-ish but still totally satisfying. My kids call them “green sauce burgers,” and they’re now part of our regular dinner rotation!
- Lean turkey makes a lighter, healthier burger
- Avocado mayo adds creaminess without extra heaviness
- Perfect for the grill—but can be made indoors too!
- Easy to prep ahead, and freezer-friendly
- Customizable with toppings and buns galore!
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 ¼ lbs ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns (brioche or whole wheat work beautifully!)
Pro Tips
- Use 93% lean ground turkey—not too lean or your burgers might dry out
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the mix for even more juiciness
- To keep patties from sticking, oil your grill grates or use grill-safe parchment
- Toast your buns slightly on the grill—total game changer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, panko, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork it!
- Form into 4 equal patties and place on a plate. Chill in the fridge for 15–30 minutes to help them hold shape.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grates.
- Grill patties for 5–6 minutes per side, flipping once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the burgers cook, mash together 1 ripe avocado with ¼ cup mayo, a squeeze of lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Toast buns on the grill for 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Assemble: Bun + avocado mayo + turkey burger + toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles) + more mayo. Enjoy!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Use an instant-read thermometer for perfectly cooked burgers every time
- Don’t press down on the patties while grilling—it squeezes out the juices
- Mix ingredients just until blended; overmixing yields tough burgers
- Make the avocado mayo a few hours ahead—the flavors develop beautifully!
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Spice it up with chipotle powder or jalapeños in the patty mix
- Swap buns for lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist
- Top with pepper jack cheese and grilled pineapple for a tropical vibe
- Serve alongside sweet potato fries or a crisp cucumber salad
- Add a fried egg on top for a brunch-worthy burger
FAQs
Can I cook these without a grill?
Absolutely! A stovetop skillet or grill pan works great—just cook on medium heat and watch for doneness.
How do I keep turkey burgers from falling apart?
The combo of egg and panko acts as a binder. Chilling them before grilling also helps keep them firm.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes! Shape them up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ lbs ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
- Mix ground turkey, egg, panko, garlic, Worcestershire, onion powder, paprika, salt & pepper.
- Shape into 4 patties and chill for 15–30 min.
- Grill patties 5–6 minutes per side until 165°F inside.
- Toast buns on grill, if desired.
- Mash avocado with mayo, lime juice, salt & pepper.
- Assemble burgers and serve with favorite toppings.
Nutrition: 410 calories per serving
Did you make these grilled turkey burgers? I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Leave a comment below, snap a quick pic and tag @thekitchensaid on Instagram, or share this recipe with a friend who needs a new weeknight dinner star!