Turkey Burger in Air Fryer Recipe: A Healthy and Delicious

Turkey burgers are a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lean source of protein that’s perfect for anyone watching their calorie intake. When cooked in an air fryer, turkey burgers become even more appealing. Air frying allows you to enjoy a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior without the need for excessive oil. This Turkey Burger in Air Fryer Recipe is easy, quick, and absolutely delicious, making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a satisfying weekend treat.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making turkey burgers in an air fryer, from preparation to serving. Let’s dive in!

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: American
• Course: Main Course
• Servings: 4 burgers
• Calories: 220 per serving (burger patty only)

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Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Nutritional values are approximate and depend on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Ingredients

To make four delicious turkey burgers, you’ll need the following:

For the Turkey Patties:

• 1 lb (454g) ground turkey (93% lean recommended for moisture)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
• 1 large egg (optional for binding)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra flavor)

Optional Toppings:

• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomato
• Sliced onion
• Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss)
• Condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise
• Burger buns (whole wheat or brioche recommended)

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Prep Time and Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer (any model with a flat basket is suitable)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula or tongs
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, parsley, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties dense.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

1. Divide the turkey mixture into four equal portions.
2. Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2-inch thick and slightly larger than the size of your buns, as they will shrink during cooking.
3. Use your thumb to press a small indent into the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the patties cook evenly and develop a crisp exterior.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Place the turkey patties in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
3. Cook the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating the patties are fully cooked.

Step 5: Rest the Patties

1. Remove the patties from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the patties moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers

1. Toast the burger buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes if desired.
2. Assemble the burgers with your preferred toppings and condiments.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Tips for Success

• Choosing Ground Turkey: Opt for ground turkey with a bit of fat content (93% lean) to ensure moist and flavorful patties. Extra-lean turkey can result in dry burgers.
• Prevent Sticking: Always spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent the patties from sticking.
• Testing Doneness: A meat thermometer is your best friend for ensuring the patties are cooked through without overcooking.
• Customize Flavor: Feel free to experiment with seasonings to suit your taste preferences. For a Mediterranean twist, add oregano and feta cheese.

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Why Make Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer?

1. Healthier Cooking: Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, eliminating the need for excessive oil.
2. Time-Saving: You can have perfectly cooked turkey burgers in under 15 minutes of active cooking time.
3. Even Cooking: The air fryer ensures your patties cook evenly with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
4. Easy Cleanup: Air fryers are easy to clean, especially when compared to stovetops or grills.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your turkey burger with any of these sides for a complete meal:

• Sweet Potato Fries: Cook them in the air fryer for a crispy and healthy side dish.
• Salad: A light green salad with balsamic dressing complements the burger perfectly.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make great accompaniments.

Turkey burgers recipe cooked in an air fryer are a game-changer for anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. This recipe offers a foolproof way to create flavorful patties that are moist on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside. With minimal prep time and easy cleanup, this recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual family dinner, these air-fried turkey burgers are sure to impress. So why wait? Grab your air fryer and give this recipe a try today!