Grilled Turkey Burger Recipe With Lemon Aioli, Perfect and Easy Burger
Jennifer
There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly Grilled Turkey Burger Recipe, especially when it’s paired with a tangy lemon aioli that dances on your taste buds. This recipe combines the juiciness of turkey and chicken patties with vibrant, fresh flavors to create a burger experience that’s as satisfying as it is memorable. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a unique dinner idea, these grilled turkey burgers will have everyone asking for seconds.
IN This Post:
History of Grilled Turkey Burger Recipe:
The turkey burger represents a modern evolution of the classic hamburger, born from a quest for healthier alternatives. Traditional beef hamburgers date back to the late 19th century, rooted in the growing popularity of minced meat dishes in Western cuisine. However, it wasn’t until the health-focused movements of the 1980s and 1990s that turkey burgers emerged as a leaner, heart-healthy option. This innovation appealed to health-conscious individuals who wanted a satisfying burger experience without the higher fat content of beef.
Turkey’s adaptability to a wide range of spices and culinary styles quickly made it a favorite among chefs and home cooks. Its mild flavor serves as a blank canvas for creativity, allowing for unique blends of seasonings and ingredients. This versatility also lends itself to global influences, with recipes borrowing from Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin American traditions.
The lemon aioli adds an extra touch that elevates this dish. Aioli, a Mediterranean sauce with a storied history, is traditionally crafted from garlic and olive oil. By incorporating fresh lemon juice and zest, this recipe introduces a tangy brightness that perfectly complements turkey’s subtle flavor profile. Together, these elements create a burger that is both sophisticated and approachable, ideal for a variety of occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Turkey Burger Recipe:
Healthier Option: Lean turkey and chicken provide a lower-fat alternative to beef, making these burgers a guilt-free indulgence. The reduction in fat content means you can enjoy a satisfying burger without compromising your dietary goals, making it a perfect option for those mindful of their nutrition.
Flavorful Sofrito: The addition of sofrito infuses the patties with aromatic herbs and spices, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Sofrito, a blend of sautéed onions, garlic, and jalapeño, lends a depth of taste that transforms ordinary patties into extraordinary creations, making every bite a delightful experience.
Tangy Lemon Aioli: This creamy, citrusy sauce is the perfect complement to the savory patties. The aioli balances the rich flavors of the turkey and chicken with a refreshing zing, creating a harmony of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the toppings, buns, or even the cheese to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer whole-grain buns, pepper jack cheese, or a vegan twist, this recipe can be tailored to fit your taste buds and dietary needs.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a summer party, these burgers are a hit with both kids and adults. They are versatile enough to be the centerpiece of a family meal or the star of a backyard barbecue, ensuring smiles all around.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Don’t Skip the Brine: Brining the meat ensures juicy patties that won’t dry out on the grill.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the patties to achieve those perfect sear marks.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature of the patties reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Chill the Sofrito: Letting the sofrito cool before mixing it into the meat prevents the patties from becoming too loose.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toasting the buns gives them texture and keeps them from getting soggy.
How To Make This Grilled Turkey Burger Recipe:
Grilled Turkey Burger Recipe With Lemon Aioli, Perfect and Easy Burger
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Food processor
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Spatula
- Brush for butter or aioli application
Ingredients
Brine:
- 8 cups warm water
- 2/3 cup salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 lb turkey ground or breast meat
- 1 lb chicken ground or breast meat
Sofrito:
- 1 small onion roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 jalapeño seeded and roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Lemon Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Patties:
- Sofrito prepared as above
- Brined turkey and chicken mixture processed into a coarse paste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice
For Assembling:
- 6 burger buns
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 large tomato sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded lettuce
- Salt and pepper to season
Instructions
- Brine the Meat: Whisk together warm water, salt, brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in a large bowl until dissolved. Add turkey and chicken pieces to the brine. Cover it and refrigerate it for one hour in a half. Drain meat in a colander, rinse with fresh water, and set aside.
- Prepare Sofrito: In a food processor, blend onion, garlic, and jalapeño until finely chopped (about 10 seconds).Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion mixture with a pinch of salt and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Stir in parsley, oregano, and rosemary, and cook for an additional 1 minute. Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl, and chill uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Make Lemon Aioli: Whisk together mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon salt, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate until needed.
- Prepare Patties: Preheat the grill to high (450°F to 500°F). Process the brined meat in batches in a food processor, pulsing until it forms a coarse paste (about 7 pulses per batch).Combine the meat mixture with the chilled sofrito, mixing thoroughly by hand. Shape into six 7-ounce patties, tightly packed.
- Grill Patties: Place patties on the preheated grill and cook uncovered, flipping often, until a thermometer reads 155°F (about 10–13 minutes). Top each patty with 1/4 cup of cheese, cover the grill, and cook for 2 more minutes until the cheese melts.
- Assemble Burgers: Season tomato slices with salt and pepper. Spread 1 teaspoon of aioli and 1 teaspoon of barbecue sauce on each bun half. Place a grilled patty on the bottom bun, top with lettuce, and a slice of tomato, and cover with the top bun.
- Enjoy your juicy turkey and chicken burgers! 🍔🍋
Notes
- Ingredient Substitutions: Swap turkey or chicken for lean beef if preferred. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese.
- Storage: Keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave until warmed through.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair these burgers with a crisp side salad or roasted sweet potato fries for a well-rounded meal.
- Advance Preparation: Both the sofrito and aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge to save time.
| Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 880mg |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Add sliced avocado or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
- Use whole-grain buns for a healthier option.
- Try using different cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda.
- For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño when making the sofrito.
- Replace barbecue sauce with spicy mustard or pesto for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with a selection of dipping sauces like ranch or chipotle mayo for variety.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, you can use all turkey if preferred. Ensure the meat is properly brined to maintain juiciness.
Ensure the grill is preheated and lightly oiled before adding the patties.
Absolutely! Freeze raw patties in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.
Use gluten-free buns and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Try chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, or honey mustard for a flavor twist.
Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
This grilled turkey burger recipe with lemon aioli are a testament to how healthy eating can still deliver bold, satisfying flavors. The combination of juicy, well-seasoned patties and the zesty aioli creates a harmony that elevates a classic burger into a gourmet delight.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or impressing friends with your grilling skills, this recipe offers something for everyone.
Don’t forget to check out other Turkey Burger Recipes and to share your results and leave a comment below—we’d love to hear your feedback!
