Apple Turkey Burgers

If you’re looking for a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall, these Apple Turkey Burgers are just what you need! Juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, this recipe combines tender ground turkey with sweet honeycrisp apples for a delightful twist on your traditional burger. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

What makes these Apple Turkey Burgers truly special is not just their taste but also the fun elements that come along with them. Topped with creamy cheddar and a refreshing kale apple slaw, they are served on soft buns with a unique cranberry aioli that adds the perfect finishing touch. Trust me; once you try them, you’ll be making them on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, these burgers are perfect for any night of the week.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of apple and turkey is a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy cooking later.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings or sides to make each burger your own.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious ingredients, they’re a feel-good meal option for everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Turkey Burgers come together using simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role in creating those delightful flavors that make this dish so memorable!

For the Burgers

• 1 pound (16 ounces) ground turkey
• ½ cup finely diced honeycrisp apple
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cranberry Aioli

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup whole cranberry sauce (homemade or from a can)
• ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

To Serve

• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices white cheddar cheese
• kale apple slaw

Variations

One of the best things about these Apple Turkey Burgers is how flexible they are! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the cheese: If cheddar isn’t your thing, go for gouda or pepper jack to add some spice!
• Add extra veggies: Mixed in spinach or grated carrots can enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with BBQ sauce or spicy mayo instead of cranberry aioli for a fun twist!

How to Make Apple Turkey Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by making your cranberry aioli. This step is important because it adds creaminess and sweetness to balance out the savory turkey. Microwave the cranberry sauce until it’s slightly melted—just about 30 seconds should do it! Then, mix it well with mayonnaise, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let it chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the patties.

Step 2: Mix the Burger Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine ground turkey with diced honeycrisp apple alongside onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there—it’s part of the fun!

Step 3: Form Patties

Now comes the shaping! Divide your turkey mixture into four equal portions and form each into flat hamburger patties. This step helps cook them evenly and keeps them juicy while grilling or baking.

Step 4: Grill Your Burgers

If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to 350 degrees F. Place those beautiful patties on the grates and cook covered for about 5 minutes until they release easily when flipped. Cook them another 5 to 8 minutes after flipping until their internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. In those last few minutes of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty so it melts perfectly.

Step 5: Bake Your Burgers (Optional)

If you prefer baking instead of grilling, simply preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Arrange patties on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray and bake for about 13 minutes total, flipping halfway through. Just like grilling, add cheese during the last couple of minutes.

Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers

Finally! Spread some cranberry aioli on each hamburger bun before placing the warm burgers inside. Top generously with kale apple slaw for crunch and freshness—then enjoy every delicious bite of these Apple Turkey Burgers!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Turkey Burgers

Creating the perfect Apple Turkey Burger is all about balancing flavors and ensuring a juicy texture. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your burger-making game:

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly diced apples provide a crisp, juicy bite that enhances the flavor profile of your burgers. Opting for Honeycrisp apples not only adds sweetness but also a delightful crunch.
• Don’t overmix the turkey: When combining the ground turkey with spices and apples, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, so be gentle to keep them tender and juicy.
• Let the patties rest: Allowing your formed patties to sit in the fridge for about 15 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape better on the grill or in the oven, resulting in a perfectly cooked burger.
• Experiment with cheese: While white cheddar is delicious, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an extra kick! Each cheese brings its unique flavor and meltability, enhancing your burger experience.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the garlic powder, onion powder, and salt according to your preference. Taste as you go—this will help you create a burger that suits your specific palate!

How to Serve Apple Turkey Burgers

Presenting your Apple Turkey Burgers can be as fun as making them! With vibrant colors and tempting flavors, these burgers are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some serving ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the sweet and savory elements of the burger.
• Sliced avocados: Creamy avocado slices elevate the texture and add healthy fats, making each bite even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, sweet potato fries bring a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apple flavor in your burgers.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cranberries, nuts, and a zesty vinaigrette makes for a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the burgers.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled until charred offer both color and nutrition, enhancing your meal while keeping it light.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set for an unforgettable meal featuring hearty Apple Turkey Burgers! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Turkey Burgers are perfect for meal prepping! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have quick and delicious meals ready to go during the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the burgers cool completely.
• Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference!

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming, or cook directly from frozen in a skillet for about 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Turkey Burgers that might help you out!

Can I use other types of apples for Apple Turkey Burgers?

Absolutely! While honeycrisp apples add a nice sweetness and crunch, you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Fuji apples for added sweetness.

How do I make Apple Turkey Burgers healthier?

You can make Apple Turkey Burgers even healthier by using lean ground turkey, opting for whole grain buns, and increasing the amount of kale apple slaw as a topping. Fresh vegetables are always a great way to boost nutrition!

How long do Apple Turkey Burgers last in the fridge?

Apple Turkey Burgers will stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I grill Apple Turkey Burgers indoors?

Yes! If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, you can use a stovetop grill pan or non-stick skillet. Just follow the same instructions as grilling on an outdoor grill.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen and fills your home with delightful aromas! These Apple Turkey Burgers are not just tasty but also a fun way to celebrate fall flavors. Enjoy making them as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!