Air-Fryer Turkey Burgers: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Turkey burgers are a great option for a quick, healthy, and tasty meal. They can be made in an air fryer in less than 20 minutes and are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers without sacrificing flavour. Ground turkey is a lean protein that can be seasoned and flavoured in a variety of ways, and air frying it cuts down on mess and oil splatter. In this article, we will explore different recipes and methods for cooking juicy and tender turkey burgers in an air fryer, as well as some creative topping and serving suggestions.

Choosing the right ingredients

Meat

For the perfect turkey burger, opt for ground turkey meat. Ground turkey is a lean and healthy protein option, making it a great choice for those seeking a nutritious meal. It is versatile and can be used in various recipes, from burgers to meatballs. If you prefer a fattier option, you can choose a fattier cut of ground turkey, but be mindful of the extra moisture it will release during cooking.

Seasonings and Spices

Seasonings and spices are key to adding flavour to your turkey burgers. The most commonly used seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add warmth and smokiness to your burgers with smoked paprika. If you're feeling adventurous, try using ground chipotle chiles instead of smoked paprika for a spicy, smoky kick. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend.

Moisture Enhancers

To ensure your turkey burgers are juicy, consider adding some ingredients that enhance moisture. Unsweetened apple sauce is a secret weapon used by many to keep turkey burgers moist without adding extra oil. Grated onion is another excellent option for adding moisture and flavour to your meat mixture.

Mix-Ins

Breadcrumbs are a common addition to turkey burgers, providing texture and helping to bind the meat together. If you're using breadcrumbs, consider opting for panko breadcrumbs for a crispier texture. You can also include some grated or minced onion in your mixture for added flavour and moisture.

Toppings and Sides

When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. Classic choices include lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese. If you're feeling indulgent, try adding a slice of cheddar or American cheese to your burger. For a tangy twist, top your burger with jalapeño mayo or Big Mac sauce. Serve your turkey burgers with a side of fries—air fryer French fries, sweet potato fries, or potato wedges are always a hit.

Remember, the beauty of cooking is that you can customise the ingredients to your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, spices, and toppings to create your signature turkey burger recipe!

Preparing the meat mixture

To prepare the meat mixture, you will need ground turkey, seasonings, and a few other ingredients. The seasonings can include salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. You can also add in some Worcestershire sauce, grated onion, and breadcrumbs for extra flavour and moisture.

Some recipes suggest adding an ingredient to keep the turkey burgers juicy, such as unsweetened apple sauce or olive oil. You can also add an egg to help bind the mixture.

Combine all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix until fully incorporated. You can use your hands or a fork to mix, but be careful not to overwork the meat as this can affect the texture of the burgers.

Once the mixture is ready, shape it into equally sized patties. You can use a burger press or form the patties by hand. A thumbprint in the centre of each patty will help them stay flat during cooking.

Shaping the patties

Shaping the perfect turkey patty is an art. Firstly, it is important to remember that the patty will shrink during cooking, so make the patties slightly larger than your bun. Secondly, to prevent the patty from puffing up during cooking, use your thumb to make a visible indent in the middle of the patty before cooking. This will help the patty stay flat and reduce shrinkage.

When shaping the patty, use your hands to gently form the mixture into evenly-sized patties. You can use a burger press to ensure that your burgers are equally sized and perfectly round. Aim for a thickness of around 3.5 inches. If you are cooking multiple patties, place them on a plate or tray, ensuring they are not touching, until you are ready to cook them.

Once you have shaped your patties, place them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour to firm up. This step will help your patties stay together when you are air frying. You can even make the patties up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the fridge, covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container, until you are ready to cook them.

Cooking the burgers

To cook turkey burgers in an air fryer, you will first need to prepare the meat mixture. Combine ground turkey with ingredients such as breadcrumbs, grated onion, apple sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, pepper, and seasonings of your choice. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined. You can also add an egg to the mixture to help bind the ingredients together.

Once the meat mixture is ready, it's time to shape it into patties. Use a burger press or your hands to form the mixture into evenly-sized patties. A typical amount is four 3.5-inch patties, but you can adjust the size and thickness according to your preference. Remember to make a visible indentation with your thumb in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up too much during cooking. Place the patties on a plate or a tray lined with parchment paper and chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help them firm up and maintain their shape.

Now, it's time to cook the burgers in your air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit (some recipes suggest 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties in the basket, making sure they don't overlap and leave a little space, about one inch, between each patty for even cooking.

Close the air fryer and set the timer. For fresh, raw turkey burgers, the cooking time will typically range from 12 to 18 minutes, depending on the recipe and the size of your patties. Most recipes recommend flipping the burgers halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning on both sides. If you are cooking frozen turkey burgers, increase the cooking time to 15-18 minutes, and remember to flip them as well.

To check if your burgers are done, use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part of the patty. This temperature is essential to prevent foodborne illness. Pull the burgers out of the air fryer when they reach this temperature, as overcooking can make them dry and tough.

Finally, let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them on burger buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and sauces like ketchup, mustard, or jalapeño mayo. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful air-fried turkey burgers!

Serving and storing

Once your turkey burgers are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This step is important as it locks in the juices. You can then add your desired toppings and serve the burgers with a side of your choice. Some side suggestions include French fries, sweet potato fries, potato wedges, or Brussels sprouts.

When it comes to storing your cooked turkey burgers, it is recommended to let them cool down to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the burgers in a shallow container and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months to 6 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the burgers in your air fryer for 4 to 5 minutes.

Frequently asked questions