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
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- During the final minute of grilling, optionally add cheese slices to create a melty, indulgent topping that complements the herbaceous pesto notes.
- 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.
- Assemble the burgers by layering fresh arugula and ripe tomato slices on the bun, then crown with the perfectly grilled pesto-infused turkey patty.
- 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