How Long To Cook Frozen Turkey Burgers On The Stove – A Detailed Guide

Frozen turkey burgers are a convenient and healthy meal option that can be cooked straight from the freezer. But how long does it take to cook frozen turkey burgers on the stovetop or skillet? Follow this detailed guide for tips, timing, and instructions to perfectly cook frozen turkey burgers on the stove with a juicy interior and browned exterior.

Why Cook Frozen Turkey Burgers on the Stove?

There are several benefits to cooking frozen turkey burgers on the stovetop rather than thawing them first

• It’s faster – no need to thaw ahead of time, just season and cook. Frozen turkey burgers can go from freezer to plate in about 15 minutes.

• Better browning – the high heat of the skillet or pan seals in moisture and gives great caramelization.

• Cooks evenly – frequent flipping distributes heat evenly for consistent doneness,

• Adds flavor – oil and seasonings impart extra flavor during cooking

• Easy monitoring – you can closely watch cook time and adjust temperature as needed.

• Versatile topping – stovetop cooking makes it easy to melt cheese or add other toppings.

So for a quick weeknight dinner, cooking frozen turkey burgers on the stovetop is a great choice.

How Long Does it Take?

Most frozen turkey burger patties take 12-15 minutes to fully cook through on the stovetop or in a skillet. The exact cook time can vary based on a few factors:

• Thickness – Thicker frozen patties take longer than thinner patties.

• Size – Larger burgers will require a longer cook time than slider-sized.

• Stove heat – Higher heat will cook them faster than lower heat.

• Additions – Adding cheese or other toppings extends the cook time.

• Flipping frequency – Frequent flipping speeds up overall cooking.

As a general guideline, a 1/4 pound frozen turkey burger patty cooks in 10-12 minutes at medium stovetop heat. Larger 1/2 pound patties may need 14-16 minutes. Watch carefully near the end to prevent overcooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stovetop Cooking

Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked frozen turkey burgers on the stovetop every time:

1. Heat the Skillet

Heat a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat until hot. Using nonstick prevents sticking and makes flipping easier.

2. Add Oil

Swirl in just enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan – about 1-2 teaspoons is usually sufficient. Grapeseed, avocado, or canola oil work well.

3. Cook the Frozen Patties

Carefully place the frozen patties in the hot oiled skillet. Leave some space between patties so steam can escape.

4. Sear Undisturbed

Let the patties sear undisturbed for 3 minutes initially. This helps them brown and develop flavor.

5. Flip and Season

After 3 minutes, flip each patty using a thin spatula. Lightly season the cooked side with salt, pepper, or other seasonings.

6. Cook the Second Side

Cook for another 3 minutes on the second side, then flip and season again. Frequent flipping prevents sticking.

7. Repeat Flipping

Continue cooking and flipping the patties every 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through to 165°F internally.

8. Melt Cheese (Optional)

If using cheese, place it on the patties 2 minutes before finishing cooking so it melts. Cheddar, pepper jack, and provolone work well.

9. Let Rest and Serve

Remove the burgers from the skillet and let rest for 2-5 minutes before serving. The rest allows juices to redistribute. Serve on buns with desired toppings.

And that’s it! With these simple steps you’ll have juicy, browned turkey burgers in about 15 minutes. Adjust the flame as needed to prevent burning. Letting the patties rest before serving is key for maximum juiciness.

Stovetop Turkey Burger Cooking Tips

• Use a heavy skillet or pan – this helps promote browning. Cast iron works especially well.

• Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the patties – this prevents sticking.

• Cook over medium heat – too high can lead to burning. Adjust as needed.

• Flip frequently – every 2-3 minutes ensures even cooking.

• Use a meat thermometer – cook until the burgers reach 165°F internally.

• Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook – this can squeeze out juices.

• Let rest for 2-5 minutes before serving – this allows juices to re-absorb for a juicier burger.

• Add cheese 2 minutes before finishing cooking if using – this gives it time to melt.

FAQs About Cooking Frozen Turkey Burgers on the Stove

How do you keep frozen turkey burgers from sticking to the pan?

Using a nonstick skillet and heating it before adding oil can help prevent sticking. Adding enough oil to coat the pan and letting it heat up before adding the patties is also key. Frequently flipping the patties also helps avoid sticking.

What is the best oil to use for cooking turkey burgers?

Good oils for cooking turkey burgers include avocado, grapeseed, canola, and olive oil. Avoid oils with low smoke points like coconut or vegetable oil. A small amount of butter can also provide nice flavor.

Should you flip turkey burgers often while cooking?

Yes, flipping frozen turkey burgers frequently while cooking is recommended. Flipping every 2-3 minutes ensures even cooking and prevents sticking or burning. Frequent flips give great results.

How can you tell when frozen turkey burgers are fully cooked?

The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness, inserting it into the thickest part of a patty. Turkey burgers are done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. They will firm up and turn opaque when cooked through.

Should you thaw frozen turkey burgers before cooking on the stove?

No, you do not need to thaw frozen turkey burgers before cooking them on the stovetop. They can go straight from the freezer into the hot skillet. Cooking time may be slightly longer than thawed, but the results will be the same.

Get Perfectly Cooked Turkey Burgers Off the Stove

Cooking frozen turkey burgers on the stovetop is fast, easy, and results in juicy, flavorful burgers the whole family will love. Following the guidelines for temperature, cook time, flipping, and resting will ensure your frozen patties come out tender and delicious. In about 15 minutes, you can have amazing turkey burgers ready to serve as a nutritious weeknight dinner.