There’s a certain charm that comes with transforming a classic comfort food into something fresh and exciting. On a particularly cozy evening, I decided to break away from the typical beef burger routine, and that’s when these Apple Turkey Burgers came to life. Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled turkey patty infused with the sweetness of honeycrisp apples and topped with a creamy cranberry aioli—it’s a taste explosion that you won’t forget!
These burgers not only bring a twist to your regular weeknight meal, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for a quick dinner solution. Whether you’re cooking for the family or impressing friends at a barbecue, the combination of savory turkey and sweet apple brings unexpected flavors to the table. Plus, with minimal prep and cook time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Let’s dive into the recipe that will elevate your burger game and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Apple Turkey Burgers a Must-Try?
Bold flavors await you with every bite of these delightful burgers!
Easy to make: Whip these up in just 30 minutes, perfect for any night of the week.
Unique twist: The honeycrisp apple adds a surprising sweetness, making your burger stand out.
Crowd pleaser: Serve these at parties, and watch them disappear!
Versatile options: Grill or bake based on your mood or season. For a refreshing side, try adding your favorite slaw or salad.
Healthy choice: Packed with protein and nutrients, these burgers are a guilt-free indulgence.
Don’t miss out on this delicious opportunity to refresh your burger nights; they’re sure to become a family favorite!
Apple Turkey Burgers Ingredients
For the Burgers
• Ground turkey – a lean meat choice that keeps the burgers juicy.
• Honeycrisp apple – adds a delightful sweetness and crunch to each bite.
• Onion powder – enhances the savory flavor without the sharpness of fresh onions.
• Garlic powder – infuses a rich aroma and taste without the fuss.
• Kosher salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors in the turkey.
• Black pepper – adds a subtle kick that elevates the overall taste.
For the Aioli
• Mayonnaise – provides a creamy base that binds the flavors beautifully.
• Whole cranberry sauce – adds a sweet and tangy zing, perfect for layering on the burger.
• Dijon mustard – offers a hint of sophistication and a slight bite to the aioli.
• Kosher salt – a pinch for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the mix.
• Black pepper – brings warmth and depth to the aioli.
For Serving
• Hamburger buns – the perfect vessel to hold your delicious Apple Turkey Burgers.
• White cheddar cheese – melts beautifully, adding a creamy richness to each burger.
• Kale apple slaw – a crunchy, refreshing complement that adds texture and flavor.
Get ready to create incredible Apple Turkey Burgers that will impress your family and friends with their unique flavor combinations and delightful textures!
How to Make Apple Turkey Burgers
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Melt the Sauce: Microwave cranberry sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds until lightly melted. Once melted, allow it to cool slightly before whisking together with mayonnaise, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Chill this aioli in the refrigerator.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, diced honeycrisp apple, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated and apple pieces are evenly distributed throughout the turkey.
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Shape the Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions. With your hands, gently form each portion into a flat hamburger patty, making sure they’re uniform in thickness for even cooking.
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Grill the Burgers: To grill, preheat your grill to 350°F. Place the patties on the hot grates and cook them covered for 5 minutes, or until they release easily. Flip and continue cooking for another 5 to 8 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For extra creaminess, add a slice of cheese on each patty during the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking.
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Bake the Burgers: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the shaped patties on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray. Bake for 13 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Like grilling, top with a slice of cheese in the last couple of minutes to melt.
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Assemble and Serve: Spread the cranberry aioli on your hamburger buns, place the juicy apple turkey burgers, and top with kale apple slaw for a fresh crunch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Optional: Serve with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Apple Turkey Burgers?
Elevate your burger night with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures perfectly.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the apple in your burgers, adding a satisfying crunch alongside.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn adds a smoky, juicy bite that pairs well with the savory turkey and sweet aioli.
- Garden Salad: A fresh mix of leafy greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a light vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw, perhaps with a hint of apple, enhances the fruity elements of your burger while adding crunch and color.
- Baked Beans: The rich sweetness and hearty texture of baked beans make them a comforting side that echoes the flavors in the burger.
- Apple Cinnamon Dessert: A light dessert like baked apples or apple crisp ties in the fruity theme, leaving your guests with a sweet finish.
- Herbed Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad with herbs and a citrus dressing creates a nutritious complement that won’t weigh you down.
- Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade offers a citrusy balance to the rich flavors, making it a refreshing drink option.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Turkey Burgers are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade burger experience during your busy week! You can mix the turkey and apple mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply form the patties and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The cranberry aioli can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and kept chilled until serving, ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully. When it’s time to cook, just grill or bake your prepped burgers for a quick dinner that still tastes just as delicious as if you made them from scratch. Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing flavor!
Expert Tips for Apple Turkey Burgers
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Choose Fresh Turkey: Use fresh ground turkey to avoid a dry texture. Frozen turkey can affect the flavor and juiciness of your burgers.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
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Perfect Patty Thickness: Keep patties uniform in thickness for even cooking. Thicker patties may require more cooking time and risk drying out.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure perfectly cooked apple turkey burgers by checking that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Try adding crispy bacon, avocado, or different cheeses to elevate your apple turkey burgers.
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Squeeze of Lemon: A dash of lemon juice in your slaw can brighten flavors and complement the sweetness of the burger beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Turkey Burgers
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through.
Freezer: For maximum flavor, freeze cooked apple turkey burgers in a single layer. Once cooled, wrap each burger in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Safeguards: Always cool burgers to room temperature before freezing to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.
Apple Turkey Burgers Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists that will make your Apple Turkey Burgers even more exciting!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free buns or serve without buns on a lettuce wrap for a light, satisfying option.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture for a zesty surprise that’ll make your taste buds dance!
- Fruit Medley: Mix in finely chopped pears or cranberries alongside the apple for a delightful burst of fruity flavors with every bite.
- Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the turkey mixture for an aromatic lift that adds depth to your burgers.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in place of onion powder to give a warm, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apple.
- Vegan Option: Substitute ground turkey with a plant-based alternative and use vegan mayo to create a guilt-free version everyone can enjoy.
- Cheese Swaps: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or pepper jack for a melty twist that adds creaminess or heat.
- Crunchy Toppings: Top with crispy fried onions or sliced pickles for a satisfying crunch that complements the juicy turkey patty.
Embrace your culinary creativity and make these flavorful variations your own!
Apple Turkey Burgers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right apple for my Apple Turkey Burgers?
Absolutely! For the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, I recommend using Honeycrisp apples. Look for apples that are firm and have a vibrant color without any dark spots or blemishes. Fresh, crisp apples will elevate the overall flavor of your burgers!
What is the best way to store leftover Apple Turkey Burgers?
Very! Place any leftover burgers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on a skillet until warmed through.
Can I freeze Apple Turkey Burgers?
Absolutely! For freezing, allow your cooked burgers to cool to room temperature. Then, wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their best quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What if my turkey burgers don’t hold together while cooking?
Very! If your patties are falling apart, it may be due to overmixing or not enough binding agents. Ensure that you gently mix the ground turkey with the apple and spices just until combined. Also, consider adding a bit of breadcrumbs or an egg as a binder if you’re facing significant issues.
Are there any dietary considerations with these Apple Turkey Burgers?
Absolutely! These burgers are a great choice for many diets, but if you or someone you’re serving has allergies, be cautious. The recipe contains mayonnaise and cheese, which are dairy products. If you’re making them for a dairy-free diet, swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese options. Always double-check labels for allergens!
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey in these burgers?
Very! Ground chicken is a fantastic alternative if you prefer it over turkey. Just keep in mind that since chicken tends to be leaner than turkey, you might want to add a touch of olive oil or another binding agent to ensure the burgers stay juicy and flavorful. Enjoy experimenting!
Delicious Apple Turkey Burgers with Sweet Cranberry Aioli
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Microwave cranberry sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 seconds until lightly melted. Allow to cool slightly and whisk together with mayonnaise, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Chill in refrigerator.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, diced honeycrisp apple, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until well incorporated.
- Divide the turkey mixture into 4 portions and form each into a flat hamburger patty.
- Preheat the grill to 350°F and cook patties for 5 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 5-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F, adding cheese in the last couple of minutes.
- For baking, preheat oven to 400°F. Place patties on a baking sheet and bake for 13 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F, adding cheese last few minutes.
- Spread cranberry aioli on buns, add turkey patties, and top with kale apple slaw.