Where to Get a Delicious Turkey Burger

Turkey burgers have become an increasingly popular option for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. With fewer calories and less saturated fat turkey burgers can be a smart choice. But where can you find a truly delicious turkey burger that doesn’t compromise on flavor? I’ve done the research to find the best places to get a tasty turkey burger.

What is a Turkey Burger?

A turkey burger is made from ground turkey meat rather than ground beef. The meat is often mixed with various seasonings and binding ingredients to help keep the patties moist and full of flavor. Turkey burgers are typically lower in calories, fat, and cholesterol compared to beef burgers. An average 4-ounce turkey burger contains around 200 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 45 milligrams of cholesterol. A beef burger of the same size has nearly double the calories and fat content.

Turkey burgers make a filling, protein-packed meal. You can customize them just like a regular burger with cheese, vegetables, condiments and serve them on a bun or lettuce wrap. Their versatility makes turkey burgers an easy way to add healthier options into your diet.

Benefits of Choosing Turkey Burgers

There are several reasons why turkey burgers can be a smarter choice than beef:

• Fewer calories – Turkey is naturally leaner than beef Even if you add cheese or other toppings, a turkey burger usually has significantly fewer calories

• Less saturated fat – Too much saturated fat from red meat can raise your cholesterol levels. Turkey contains less than half the saturated fat of lean ground beef.

• More protein – A 4-ounce turkey burger has about 25-30 grams of protein. Protein helps you feel satisfied and full.

• Versatile flavor – Turkey takes on the flavors of whatever seasonings you add. You can give your turkey burger plenty of oomph.

• Prevents overcooking – Ground turkey doesn’t require being cooked to as high of a temperature as beef. It’s harder to end up with an overcooked, dry turkey burger.

Top Restaurant Chains for Turkey Burgers

Several restaurant chains have added tasty turkey burgers to their menus to cater to the growing demand for lighter fare. Here are some of the best options for turkey burgers from popular chains:

The Cheesecake Factory

The Factory Turkey Burger features a patty blended with mushrooms, garlic, and spices. It’s topped with fontina cheese, avocado, tomato, arugula, and onion. Served on a wheat brioche bun, it has great flavors and texture.

Mooyah

The TurCali Club turkey burger from this Texas-based chain includes applewood smoked bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and spicy ranch dressing on a potato bun.

Bareburger

Bareburger uses an all-natural turkey patty and creative toppings like guacamole, organic baby kale, and spicy green goddess dressing on their SoCo turkey burger. You can get it on a regular bun or wrapped in lettuce.

Johnny Rockets

Build your own turkey burger combo here. Choose from patty sizes and add any of Johnny Rockets’ classic burger toppings like cheese, bacon, grilled onions, etc.

Smashburger

For an indulgent turkey burger, try Smashburger’s Scorchin’ Hot Turkey Burger. It’s topped with spicy mac and cheese and crispy onions.

Red Robin

Red Robin’s Grilled Turkey Burger features pepper jack cheese, chipotle aioli, lettuce, and tomato. Their extensive list of toppings lets you customize yours.

Local Places Known for Tasty Turkey Burgers

In addition to the national chains, many local restaurants and gastropubs in cities across the country have started serving high-quality turkey burgers. Here are some top-rated local spots to find excellent turkey burgers:

Buffalo

Foursquare user recommendations highlight places like Allen Burger Venture, Betty’s Restaurant, and Kostas Family Restaurant as having the best turkey burgers in Buffalo.

Austin

Hopdoddy, P. Terry’s, and Arlo’s are favored spots for juicy, flavorful turkey burgers in the Austin area according to Yelp reviews.

San Francisco

The Brixton, Haight Street Burgers, and Ragazza wins over SF locals with their unique turkey burger options.

Portland

Yelpers in Portland offer strong support for the turkey burgers at Slowburger, Bless Your Heart Burgers, and Garden Bar.

Asking locals is a great way to find out where to get the top turkey burgers in your city. Check sites like Yelp and social media food groups.

Tips for Ordering the Best Turkey Burger

Not all turkey burgers are created equal. Here are some helpful tips to end up with the tastiest turkey burger when dining out:

• Read descriptions – Menu details can give you clues about flavorful seasonings and toppings.

• Ask how it’s cooked – Grilled, griddled, and pan-fried can yield different textures.

• Request temperature – Ask for your patty to be cooked medium or medium-well to prevent dryness.

• Try specialty burgers – Unique toppings like guacamole, bacon jam, goat cheese provide moisture and flavor.

• Skip the bun – Lettuce wraps are a lower carb option that highlights the turkey.

• Add sauce – Sauces and spreads like chimichurri, aiolis, or chutneys prevent a bland burger.

• Order a side salad – Pairing your turkey burger with a nutrient-dense salad provides balance.

Cooking Delicious Turkey Burgers at Home

Making tasty turkey burgers at home is totally doable with a few simple tricks:

• Use thigh meat – Ground turkey thigh has more fat and flavor than breast meat.

• Add binders – Egg, panko breadcrumbs, or mashed potatoes help hold patties together.

• Mix in spices and herbs – Onion powder, garlic, oregano, Worcestershire elevate flavor.

• Don’t overmix – Gently mix ingredients just until combined to prevent dense patties.

• Make a indentation – Using your thumb to make a well in patties as they form prevents bulging.

• Brush with oil – Lightly coating the patties with oil before cooking keeps them moist.

• Use a meat thermometer – Cook to 165°F to ensure safe doneness without drying out.

With the right techniques and ingredients, homemade turkey burgers can be just as juicy, flavorful and satisfying as restaurant versions. Experiment with flavors and cooking methods to create your perfect turkey burger.

Satisfy Your Craving for a Healthier Burger

Turkey burgers have proven their staying power on menus as a tasty, lighter alternative to beef. With so many excellent restaurant and homemade options, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy a flavorful turkey burger that delivers the satisfying experience you want from a classic burger. Choosing turkey can help you eat less saturated fat and calories without feeling deprived. Give one of these juicy turkey burgers a try the next time you’re craving a delicious burger. Your waistline and taste buds will thank you.