Quick and easy 15-minute air fryer turkey burgers are super juicy, flavorful, healthy, and keto-friendly. They call for six ingredients and are made without breadcrumbs or eggs. The perfect gluten-free weeknight dinner and meal prep.
For many families, burgers are a regular mealtime staple. The kids love them and they’re so quick and easy to throw together. But sometimes you want a healthier option than beef. That’s where turkey burgers can really shine! The leaner meat packs in protein without all the saturated fat. But there’s a catch – turkey burgers are notoriously finicky to get just right. Without breadcrumbs or egg binding them, they often fall apart on the grill or skillet.
Luckily, I’ve cracked the code on how to make moist, delicious turkey burgers that hold together perfectly, no breadcrumbs required! In this article, I’ll share my tips and tricks for breadcrumb-free turkey burgers the whole family will love.
Skip the Breadcrumbs for a Healthier Burger
Traditional turkey burger recipes call for breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs as a binder to keep the ground meat from crumbling when cooked. But adding starchy carbs isn’t always ideal especially if you’re watching sugar and gluten.
The good news is, with a few simple tweaks, you can make turkey burgers without any breadcrumbs that are just as tasty and satisfying!
Cheese is the Secret to Holding Them Together
My secret trick? Shredded cheese mixed right into the meat! Using cheddar or your favorite melty cheese helps bind the turkey burger mixture together for a moist patty that doesn’t fall apart on the grill or in the pan.
When the cheese melts during cooking, it acts like the glue to fuse it all into one juicy burger. I like using a combo of shredded cheese in the mix and adding a slice on top too for extra gooeyness!
Season Well for Maximum Flavor
Since turkey meat is milder than beef, be sure to punch up the flavor with herbs and spices. I like using garlic salt, black pepper, parsley and sometimes paprika or Italian seasoning blend. Get creative with your own favorite combos!
Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes after mixing so the seasoning really permeates the meat before forming patties. This helps boost the overall flavor throughout.
Get the Right Texture with a Food Processor
For best texture, I recommend using a food processor to get an even grind and integrate the cheese evenly. Pulse the turkey meat, cheese and seasoning until combined but not overprocessed into a paste.
If you don’t have a food processor, be very thorough when mixing by hand to distribute the cheese. The more evenly incorporated, the less likely crumbles.
Cook Quickly Over High Heat
Resist the urge to move the patties around too much during cooking. Let them sear undisturbed for 2-3 minutes on the first side. Use a thin metal spatula to flip carefully. Pressing down lightly helps the cheese act as a binder.
Cook another 2-3 minutes on the second side until cooked through. Turkey cooks faster than beef so high heat for a short time prevents dryness.
Rest Before Serving for Juiciest Results
Never serve turkey burgers straight off the grill! Let them rest at least 5 minutes before layering on buns and toppings. This allows juices to redistribute so they don’t run out when you bite in.
During resting, the internal temperature rises another 5°F to ensure doneness. Resist cutting in to test until fully rested.
Melty Cheese & Fresh Toppings Make the Burger
Now for the fun part – loading up your breadcrumb-free turkey burgers! Go crazy with melty cheese slices, crispy lettuce, juicy tomato slices, sautéed onions or mushrooms, pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayo – whatever your favorites.
The patty provides the protein and the toppings make it a complete satisfying meal. Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries for a filling family dinner.
No Breadcrumbs Needed for Delicious Turkey Burgers
As you can see, it’s easy to make incredibly tasty turkey burgers without resorting to breadcrumbs or egg as a binder. A little cheese and proper cooking is all it takes for juicy, flavorful patties that hold together beautifully.
Can you air fry frozen turkey burgers?
Yes! Air fry frozen turkey burgers at 360°F (182°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.
How to make air fryer turkey burgers
Air fryer turkey burgers are so easy to make in under 15 minutes. They’re keto, healthy, and extra juicy from the shredded onion. Here are detailed step-by-step instructions with pictures for visual reference so any level cook can make them. The full recipe and ingredient measurements are at the bottom of this page in the recipe card.
First, preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and lightly grease the basket with non-stick spray.
Mix the ground turkey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, chopped parsley, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (if using) slowly in a large bowl. Be careful not to mix too much, making the burgers tough.
Next, divide the mixture and shape it into four burger patties, each about 1/2-inch thick.
Then, carefully place each burger into the air fryer basket that has been heated, making sure they don’t touch or overlap. If your air fryer is small, you might need to do this in two batches.
Air fry the burgers for 10 to 13 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Ensure each burger’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. Overcooked turkey burgers can become dry.
Cheeseburgers: If you want to add cheese, air fry the turkey patty for one minute longer and then put a slice of cheese on top of it.
If you want to serve the burgers with buns, you can toast the buns in the air fryer after the burgers are done. Air fry the buns for three to four minutes, cut side up, at 300°F (149°C) until they’re golden. Alternatively, you can toast the buns in a toaster oven or on the stovetop.
Finally, assemble your burgers by placing the cooked patties on the buns. You can also serve them in lettuce wraps or on a bed of salad for a low-carb option. I top mine with thinly sliced red onion, lettuce leaves, sliced tomato, and cheddar cheese. Enjoy!.
- Use 93% lean ground turkey for juicier burgers. Since this recipe doesn’t call for breadcrumbs or eggs, 99% lean ground turkey can make burgers that are dry.
- Gently combine ingredients to avoid tough burgers. The turkey burgers will be heavier and denser if you mix the mixture too much.
- Add cheese. Add a slice of your favorite cheese to these air fryer cheeseburgers right before they’re done cooking.
- Make them extra low-carb. For a low-carb and keto-friendly dinner, you can put these air-fried turkey burgers in lettuce wraps.
- Make them ahead of time for meal prep. Turkey burgers can be kept in the fridge for up to five days if they are stored in a container that keeps air out. They are great for meal prep!.
- Make sure you don’t overcook them. Turkey burgers are done when they reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Overcooked burgers will be dry.
- Customize them. For flavor, moisture, and extra vegetables, chop up bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach and add them to your burger meat.
- Use any topping. Sliced tomatoes, lettuce, bacon, buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, guacamole, sprouts, and raw or caramelized onions are some of our favorite foods.
How To Make Macro Friendly Turkey Burgers. No Breadcrumbs!
FAQ
How to keep turkey burgers from falling apart without breadcrumbs?
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