Mini Turkey Burgers – Martha Stewart

The aroma of grilling burgers always takes me back to summer picnics at my grandmother’s house. While the adults chatted, us kids would sneak away to devour the juicy, perfectly-sized burgers she made, nestled in soft potato rolls. These Mini Turkey Burgers from Martha Stewart capture that same joyful simplicity, but with a lighter, leaner twist. They’re just as satisfying, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun party appetizer.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 12 burgers
• Dietary Type: Lean Protein

Ingredients

• 2 slices white bread (about 1 ounce each)
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 2 ounces cheddar cheese, coarsely grated (about 1/2 cup)
• 1/2 small onion, coarsely grated
• 1 pinch coarse salt and pepper
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 12 potato dinner rolls
• Lettuce (optional)
• Sliced tomatoes (optional)
• Ketchup, and (optional)
• Mustard, for serving (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Food processor
• Medium bowl
• Large nonstick skillet

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the breadcrumbs. In a food processor, pulse the 2 slices of white bread until fine crumbs form. Be careful not to over-process; you want crumbs, not flour.
2. Transfer the breadcrumbs to a medium bowl.
3. Add the 1 lb lean ground turkey, 2 ounces of coarsely grated cheddar cheese, and 1/2 small coarsely grated onion to the bowl.
4. Season generously with a pinch of coarse salt and pepper.
5. Gently mix all the ingredients together just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough burgers.
6. Form twelve 2-inch patties from the mixture. Each patty should be approximately 3 tablespoons in size. Ensure they are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
7. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the patties to prevent sticking.
8. Carefully place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
9. Cook the patties until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend for ensuring doneness.
10. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and serve immediately on potato dinner rolls.
11. Add lettuce and sliced tomatoes, if desired, and condiments like ketchup and mustard for serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Choice: While cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Breadcrumb Substitute: If you don’t have white bread on hand, you can use panko breadcrumbs, though the texture will be slightly different.
• Moisture is Key: Ground turkey can sometimes be dry. To ensure juicy burgers, don’t overmix the ingredients. The grated onion also adds moisture. If you find the mixture is still too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or broth.
• Prevent Sticking: Using a nonstick skillet is crucial to prevent the burgers from sticking. Ensure the skillet is properly preheated before adding the oil.
• Grilling Option: These mini burgers are also fantastic grilled. Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Mini Turkey Burgers immediately while they’re hot and juicy. They’re fantastic as a main course with a side salad or sweet potato fries, or as appetizers at a party.

Leftover cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, you can microwave them for about 30-60 seconds, or reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of water to the skillet to help keep the burgers moist.

Freezing is also an option. Allow the cooked patties to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	273 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	51%
Total Fat	15.6 g	24%
Saturated Fat	5.8 g	28%
Cholesterol	104.5 mg	34%
Sodium	280 mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	7.4 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.4 g	1%
Sugars	1 g	3%
Protein	24.4 g	48%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the turkey mixture for a spicy twist.
• Italian Flair: Incorporate Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes into the mix for an Italian-inspired burger.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free potato rolls.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground turkey with a plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Bun Alternatives: Try serving the patties on lettuce wraps instead of potato rolls for a lower-carb option.
• Topping Bar: Set up a topping bar with various cheeses, sauces, vegetables, and pickles for guests to customize their burgers.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

A: Yes, ground chicken can be substituted for ground turkey in this recipe. The cooking time will remain the same.

Q: How can I prevent the burgers from shrinking while cooking?

A: Avoid overmixing the turkey mixture, as this can cause the burgers to shrink. Also, don’t press down on the patties while they are cooking.

Q: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook them just before serving.

Q: What is the best way to ensure the burgers are cooked through?

A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the burgers. They should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I add herbs to the turkey mixture?

A: Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives can add a wonderful flavor to the burgers.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Turkey Burgers are a delightful, healthier take on a classic favorite. They’re simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough to serve at a gathering. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and seasonings to create your own signature mini burger masterpiece. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your feedback – I’m confident it will become a regular on your menu! Pair them with a crisp coleslaw and a refreshing iced tea for a complete and satisfying meal.