Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers Recipe for Flavorful Bites

Backyard barbecues come alive with these mouthwatering grilled pesto turkey burgers that promise a burst of Mediterranean flavor.

Zesty herbs blend seamlessly into lean meat, creating a juicy patty that sings with freshness.

Weekend grill masters will appreciate how simple ingredients elevate an ordinary meal.

Each bite delivers a tantalizing combination of aromatic basil and perfectly charred edges.

Crisp vegetables and smooth condiments complement the burger’s robust profile.

Summer cooking reaches new heights with this quick and satisfying recipe.

Gather your ingredients and fire up the grill – you’re about to become the neighborhood’s culinary hero.

Helpful Insights for Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers

• Prevent Dry Burgers: Mix ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat to keep turkey burgers moist and tender.
• Chill for Success: Refrigerate patties for 15-20 minutes before grilling to help them maintain shape and prevent crumbling on the grill.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure turkey burgers reach 165°F internally for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
• Customize Toppings: Swap arugula for spinach or add grilled onions and roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

Reheating Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers Right

• Store leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days.
• Reheat individual patties on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking internal temperature reaches 165F to ensure food safety.
• Warm burgers in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, restoring crispness and preventing dryness.
• Wrap burgers separately in foil or parchment paper before refrigerating to maintain moisture and protect flavor.

Plates to Match Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers

• Select a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the herbal pesto notes and cut through the richness of the turkey burger.
• Create a light arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette to echo the burger's Italian-inspired flavor profile.
• Prepare crispy potato wedges seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and garlic to provide a complementary side that enhances the pesto's herbaceous qualities.
• Craft a refreshing drink with lemon, mint, and sparkling water to balance the burger's savory elements and provide a palate-cleansing accompaniment.

Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers in New Forms

• Lean Protein Power: Swap ground turkey with ground chicken for a lighter protein option that maintains the same herbaceous pesto flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Magic: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour for a gluten-free version and add crumbled feta cheese inside the patty for extra Mediterranean taste.
• Veggie Lover's Version: Substitute ground turkey with plant-based ground impossible or beyond meat for a vegetarian alternative that keeps the pesto seasoning intact.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip traditional buns and wrap the burger in large lettuce leaves, using butter lettuce or romaine for a crisp, carb-conscious meal that still delivers robust flavor.

Got Questions About Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers?

• How do I prevent my turkey burgers from falling apart on the grill?

Mixing the ingredients gently and chilling the patties for 15-20 minutes before grilling helps them hold together better. The cold temperature firms up the meat and prevents crumbling.

• Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. Place parchment paper between the patties to prevent sticking.

• What if I don't have a grill?

You can cook these turkey burgers in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety.

• Is ground turkey healthier than beef?

Ground turkey is typically lower in fat and calories compared to ground beef, making it a leaner protein option for those watching their diet or seeking a healthier burger alternative.

Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers with Bold Flavor

• These pesto turkey burgers transform ordinary ground turkey into a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes.
• Mix in different herbs, cheeses, or toppings to match your family's taste preferences and create a personalized burger experience.
• Lower in fat compared to beef burgers, these turkey patties deliver lean protein with maximum flavor from the aromatic pesto and Parmesan cheese.
• One-bowl mixing method and simple grilling technique mean less washing up, making this recipe perfect for busy home cooks seeking convenience.

What Goes Into Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers

• Ground Turkey: Lean protein base for the burger, choose fresh ground turkey with moderate fat content for juiciness.

• Pesto, Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich herbal and savory notes, choose high-quality traditional basil pesto for best flavor.

• Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper: Classic seasoning combination for depth and balance, use freshly ground black pepper for more robust taste.

• Breadcrumbs: Helps hold burger together and provides slight texture, can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs.

• Burger Buns: Neutral base for holding the patty, choose soft yet sturdy buns that can handle grilling.

• Arugula, Tomato: Fresh and peppery greens with juicy tomato for added freshness and texture.

• Mayonnaise, Additional Pesto: Creamy and herbal spreads for extra moisture and flavor, homemade or store-bought work well.

• Cheese Slices: Melty topping for added richness, choose mild varieties like mozzarella or provolone.

Making Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers

Step 1: Craft Flavor-Packed Meat Mixture

• Ground turkey
• Vibrant pesto
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Breadcrumbs (optional)

Tenderly mix ingredients, avoiding excessive handling to keep the meat tender and light.

Step 2: Shape Perfectly Balanced Patties

Mold the mixture into four uniform patties. For enhanced stability, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Fire Up The Grill

Ignite grill to medium-high temperature. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Cook patties 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature hits 165°F. Optional: Crown with cheese slices during final cooking minute.

Step 4: Build Mouthwatering Burger Stacks

• Peppery arugula
• Juicy tomato slices
• Grilled turkey patty

Step 5: Savor Your Culinary Creation

Serve immediately alongside your preferred accompaniment. Prepare for a flavor explosion!

Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Succulent Grilled Pesto Turkey Burgers blend Italian herb magic with juicy lean protein for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Crisp summer evenings welcome these zesty patties that promise maximum flavor with minimal effort.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1.25 pounds (567 grams) ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
• 0.25 cup (59 milliliters) basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 0.25 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Dry Ingredients:

• 0.25 cup (30 grams) breadcrumbs (optional, for structure)
• 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Serving Ingredients:

• 4 burger buns
• Sliced mozzarella or provolone (optional)
• Tomato slices
• Arugula or lettuce
• Olive oil, for brushing grill
• Additional pesto or mayonnaise

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Craft a flavor-packed mixture by gently blending ground turkey with vibrant pesto, grated Parmesan, aromatic garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Fold in breadcrumbs for enhanced texture, being careful not to overmix.
2. Mold the seasoned turkey mixture into four uniform patties, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking. Refrigerate the patties for 15-20 minutes to help them maintain structural integrity during grilling.
3. Prepare the grill by heating to medium-high and lightly oiling the grates to prevent sticking. Carefully place patties on the grill, cooking for 5-6 minutes per side until they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
4. During the final minute of grilling, optionally add cheese slices to create a melty, indulgent topping that complements the herbaceous pesto notes.
5. While patties are finishing, lightly toast the buns to add a crisp texture. Spread a layer of pesto or mayonnaise on the bread for an extra flavor boost.
6. Assemble the burgers by layering fresh arugula and ripe tomato slices on the bun, then crown with the perfectly grilled pesto-infused turkey patty.
7. Serve immediately alongside your preferred side dish, and savor the Mediterranean-inspired burger experience.

Notes

• Keep meat cold while mixing to prevent toughness and maintain burger texture, handling ground turkey gently prevents dense, compact patties.
• Skip breadcrumbs for gluten-free option, replacing with almond flour or finely ground oats to maintain moisture and binding.
• Ensure internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety, using meat thermometer provides precise doneness without overcooking delicate turkey meat.
• Consider alternative protein options like ground chicken or plant-based alternatives for varied dietary preferences, maintaining similar seasoning profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg