These Turkey Burgers Stuffed with Cheese are an absolute crowd-pleaser. The combination of lean turkey and melty cheese creates a juicy, flavorful burger that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you enjoy them on a bun or as a low-carb option without, these burgers are a perfect weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ choice.
What makes this recipe even better is how quick and easy it is to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and healthier than traditional beef burgers. Feel free to customize your stuffed burgers with your favorite cheeses or seasonings to elevate the flavors and enjoy a fresh twist every time!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb lean ground turkey
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Olive oil (for cooking)
Directions:
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Preheat grill or skillet over medium heat.
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In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
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Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a patty.
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Place 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese in the center of each patty.
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Fold the edges over the cheese to seal the patty, forming a stuffed burger.
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Lightly grease the grill or skillet with olive oil.
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Cook the burgers for about 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
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Serve on a bun or on its own with your favorite sides.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Choose Turkey Burgers?
Turkey is a lean source of protein, which makes it a healthier alternative to traditional beef. Compared to beef, turkey has fewer calories, less saturated fat, and a higher protein-to-fat ratio. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste or texture.
In addition to being lean, turkey is versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes. Turkey burgers, in particular, offer a fantastic way to enjoy the flavor and texture of a classic burger while keeping things lighter and healthier. When you add cheese into the mix, you create a delicious contrast between the lean turkey and the rich, melted cheese that fills the burger patty.
Health Benefits of Turkey Burgers
Turkey burgers not only provide a healthy source of protein, but they also offer several other health benefits. Turkey is rich in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, selenium, and zinc, which are essential for energy production, immune function, and overall well-being. Additionally, turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps to regulate mood and promote a sense of relaxation.
Because turkey is lower in fat compared to other meats, it can also help reduce your intake of unhealthy fats. This can contribute to better heart health and weight management, as reducing saturated fat intake is important for lowering cholesterol levels. By making the switch to turkey burgers, you’re choosing a meal that supports both your health and your taste buds.
Cheese-Stuffed Burgers: A Flavor Explosion
The addition of cheese inside the turkey burger patty takes the flavor and texture to the next level. As the burger cooks, the cheese melts, creating a gooey, savory surprise inside each bite. The cheese helps keep the turkey moist, preventing the burger from becoming dry, which can sometimes happen with leaner meats. Additionally, the melted cheese adds a creamy richness that complements the subtle flavors of the turkey, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
The type of cheese you choose can also add variety and a unique twist to the dish. While cheddar is a popular choice for stuffed turkey burgers, you can experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for an added kick of spice. Each cheese variety brings its own texture and flavor profile, allowing you to customize the turkey burger to your preferences.
How to Serve Turkey Burgers Stuffed with Cheese
Turkey burgers stuffed with cheese can be served in a variety of ways, making them a versatile dish for any occasion. The most common way to serve them is on a burger bun, topped with fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomato, and pickles. This classic presentation offers a comforting and familiar feel, but there are many other ways to enjoy these flavorful burgers.
For a low-carb or gluten-free option, you can serve the cheese-stuffed turkey burgers on lettuce wraps instead of buns. The crispness of the lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, juicy burger and adds a lightness to the dish. Alternatively, you can serve the burgers on a bed of greens, creating a healthy and satisfying salad-like dish.
If you’re looking to make a complete meal, pair your turkey burgers with some healthy side dishes. Roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a quinoa salad are all great accompaniments that complement the flavors of the burger. For a heartier meal, you can even serve the burgers with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh corn on the cob.
Customizing Your Turkey Burgers
One of the best things about making turkey burgers is how customizable they are. You can add different seasonings, herbs, and toppings to create a burger that suits your tastes. For example, you could mix some fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro into the turkey mixture for added flavor. You could also experiment with adding spices such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a more savory or spicy twist.
If you prefer a Mediterranean-inspired burger, try adding feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano to your turkey patty. Or, for an Asian-inspired burger, you could incorporate ginger, garlic, and soy sauce into the turkey mixture, and top it with a dollop of hoisin sauce and sliced cucumber.
Making Turkey Burgers Ahead of Time
Turkey burgers stuffed with cheese are not only easy to make, but they’re also perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the turkey patties in advance, stuff them with cheese, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This allows for quick and convenient meals during busy weeks when you don’t have time to prepare dinner from scratch every day.
If you have extra turkey burger patties left over, they also make great leftovers. You can store them in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze them for up to three months. When reheating, simply warm them in the oven or on the grill to retain their juiciness.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Burgers Stuffed with Cheese
To ensure your turkey burgers turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:
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Don’t Overmix the Turkey: When preparing the turkey patty mixture, be careful not to overmix it. Overmixing can result in a tough burger, so mix until just combined.
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Seal the Patties Well: When stuffing the burgers with cheese, make sure to seal the edges of the patties tightly. This will prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your turkey burgers are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The burgers should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
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Cook on Medium Heat: Turkey burgers can cook quickly and tend to dry out if the heat is too high. Cook them on medium heat to ensure they cook evenly and remain juicy.
Conclusion: A Delicious and Healthy Burger Option
Turkey burgers stuffed with cheese are a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. With their lean protein, rich cheese filling, and endless customization options, they’re a perfect meal for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying, guilt-free burger. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner or serving them at a summer BBQ, these burgers are sure to impress your family and friends.
By making simple adjustments to the ingredients, you can create a turkey burger that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer classic cheddar or a more adventurous cheese choice, stuffed turkey burgers provide a fun and delicious twist on a timeless favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite sides, and they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your dinner rotation.