If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger with crispy edges and a tender center, these Turkey Smashburgers are a game-changer. Made with lean ground turkey and packed with savory goodness, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend cookout. Trust me, once you try them, you won’t miss beef burgers one bit!
Why You’ll Love Turkey Smashburgers
This recipe is all about big flavors, crispy textures, and pure satisfaction. Here’s why you’ll love it:
Juicy and Flavorful
These smashburgers stay moist and tender while developing an irresistible crispy crust.
Quick and Easy
No complicated steps—just a simple, foolproof method that delivers delicious results in minutes.
Healthier Option
Made with lean ground turkey, they’re a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers.
Perfectly Crispy Edges
Smashing the patties creates that signature crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Customizable
Load them up with your favorite toppings and sauces for the ultimate burger experience.
Ingredients in Turkey Smashburgers
Here’s what makes these burgers so incredible:
Ground Turkey
Lean yet flavorful, it forms the perfect base for these juicy patties.
Onion and Garlic Powder
Adds depth and enhances the natural savoriness of the turkey.
Worcestershire Sauce
A secret ingredient that boosts umami flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
Butter or Oil
Used to sear the patties and achieve that crispy, golden crust.
Burger Buns
Soft, toasted buns provide the perfect base for your smashburgers.
Cheese (Optional)
Melty cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese takes these burgers to the next level.
Toppings (Optional)
Lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions—stack them up however you like!
Instructions
Let’s make these amazing smashburgers step by step:
Preheat the Skillet
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a little butter or oil.
Form the Turkey Balls
Divide the ground turkey into equal portions and roll them into loose balls.
Smash the Patties
Place a ball in the hot skillet and immediately smash it down with a spatula or burger press. Press hard to get that crispy edge.
Season and Cook
Sprinkle with salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy.
Flip and Melt Cheese
Flip the patties, top with cheese (if using), and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully cooked.
Toast the Buns
While the burgers cook, lightly toast the buns in the skillet for extra flavor.
Assemble and Serve
Place the patties on the buns, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy immediately!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: [Number of servings]
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]
How to Serve Turkey Smashburgers
These smashburgers are delicious on their own, but here are some ways to make them even better:
Classic Style
Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a dollop of mayo or mustard.
Spicy Kick
Add sliced jalapeños and a drizzle of sriracha or spicy mayo.
Bacon Lovers
Crispy bacon and melted cheddar for an indulgent twist.
Caramelized Onions
Slow-cooked onions add a sweet and savory depth of flavor.
With a Side
Pair with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Additional Tips
Use a Hot Skillet
A cast-iron pan works best for getting that signature crispy crust.
Don’t Overmix
Handling the turkey too much can make the patties dense—keep it loose for the best texture.
Press Quickly
Smash the patties as soon as they hit the pan for the crispiest edges.
Freeze for Later
Form the turkey balls ahead of time and freeze them for a quick meal option.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make these without a cast-iron skillet?
A1: Yes! A stainless steel pan works too—just make sure it’s well-heated.
Q2: How do I keep turkey burgers from drying out?
A2: Don’t overcook them! Turkey is leaner than beef, so cook just until done.
Q3: Can I add breadcrumbs or egg to the patties?
A3: You can, but it’s not necessary for smashburgers—the simpler, the better.
Q4: What’s the best cheese for these burgers?
A4: American, cheddar, or Swiss all melt beautifully.
Q5: Can I grill these instead of pan-frying?
A5: Yes! Just use a well-oiled grill and press the patties down with a spatula.
Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q7: Can I make these with ground chicken?
A7: Absolutely! Just follow the same steps.
Q8: Can I double the recipe?
A8: Yes! Just work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Q9: What’s the best sauce for turkey smashburgers?
A9: Try classic mayo, ketchup, mustard, or a homemade burger sauce.
Q10: Can I meal prep these in advance?
A10: Yes! Shape the turkey balls ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
Turkey Smashburgers are an easy, flavorful, and healthier twist on a classic burger. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a casual cookout, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!
Print
Turkey Smashburgers
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These juicy and flavorful Ground Turkey Smashburgers are made with lean ground turkey, melty cheese, and a tangy burger sauce, all stacked on toasted brioche buns. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these burgers taste even better than your favorite burger spot!
Ingredients
For the Turkey Patties:
- 1 pound ground turkey (dark meat)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Avocado oil, for cooking
- 8 thin slices sharp cheddar cheese
For Serving:
- 4 brioche buns, toasted
- Burger sauce
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Green leaf lettuce
- Sliced tomato
- Sliced pickles
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, salt, pepper, and spices. Gently mix with your hands, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into eight 2-ounce balls.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a bit of avocado oil.
- Smash the Burgers:
- Place 1-2 turkey balls in the skillet. (If your skillet is small, cook one at a time.)
- Cover with a square of parchment paper and use a burger press or heavy spatula to smash into a thin patty.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until browned and crispy.
- Use a spatula to scrape and flip the patty.
- Top with a slice of cheese and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the cheese melts and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Stack two turkey patties per bun on toasted brioche buns.
- Add burger sauce, lettuce, red onion, tomato, and pickles.
- Serve Immediately & Enjoy!
Notes
- Use dark meat turkey for the juiciest patties.
- Smashing creates crispy edges and locks in flavor—press quickly for best results!
- Serve with sweet potato fries, a side salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 542 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 115mg