Air Fryer Turkey Burgers Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade air fryer turkey burgers that stay juicy and flavorful! This easy baking recipe uses simple ingredients and the air fryer's circulating heat for perfect results every time. The addition of grated vegetables and herbs keeps these burgers moist without adding extra fat.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

12 mins

Serves:

4 burgers

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">500g lean ground turkey (turkey mince)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 small onion, finely grated</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 small carrot, finely grated</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 small zucchini (courgette), finely grated and excess moisture squeezed out</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 cloves garlic, minced</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large egg</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">40g breadcrumbs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp Dijon mustard</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp Worcestershire sauce</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">4 burger buns, for serving</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, cheese</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Air fryer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Box grater</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Mixing bowl</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Kitchen scale</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Meat thermometer</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with grated onion, carrot, and squeezed zucchini. These vegetables add moisture and flavor that prevent the lean turkey from drying out during cooking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Add the minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped herbs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly with clean hands, being careful not to overmix which can make the burgers tough. The mixture should be cohesive but still relatively loose.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 160-170g each) and shape into patties about 2.5cm thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb – this prevents the burgers from puffing up in the middle during cooking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Lightly brush both sides of each patty with olive oil. This helps develop a beautiful golden crust in the air fryer while adding a touch of flavor.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Preheat your air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes. Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each for proper air circulation. If your air fryer is small, cook in batches rather than overcrowding.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Cook the turkey burgers for 6 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 4-6 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) when tested with a meat thermometer. The air fryer's circulating heat ensures even cooking and a perfectly seared exterior.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Remove the burgers from the air fryer and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring moist, flavorful patties.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Meanwhile, if desired, place your burger buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 180°C to lightly toast them. Assemble your burgers with your favorite toppings and enjoy immediately.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>For make-ahead convenience, you can form patties and freeze them (separated by parchment paper) for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen by adding 3-4 minutes to the cooking time.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Air Fryer Turkey Burgers Recipe?

This recipe uses lean ground turkey, grated vegetables (onion, carrot, zucchini), egg, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs (parsley and thyme), garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, salt and pepper. The burgers are served with buns and optional toppings.

How to cook Air Fryer Turkey Burgers Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Air Fryer Turkey Burgers by mixing ground turkey with grated vegetables, herbs and seasonings, then shaping into patties with an indentation in the middle. Brush with olive oil and air fry at 180°C for about 12 minutes total (flipping halfway) until they reach 74°C internally. Rest before serving on toasted buns with your favourite toppings.

Why do turkey burgers often turn out dry and how can I prevent this?

Turkey burgers dry out because they're naturally lean. Keep them moist by incorporating grated vegetables (especially zucchini), using an egg as a binder, adding sufficient seasonings, not overmixing the meat, making an indentation in the centre, and cooking to exactly 74°C without overcooking.

Can I make these turkey patties ahead of time and freeze them?

Yes! Form the patties, place parchment paper between each one, and freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container. You can cook them directly from frozen in the air fryer by adding 3-4 extra minutes to the cooking time, still ensuring they reach 74°C internally.

What are the best toppings for a healthy turkey burger?

For a nutritious turkey burger, try sliced avocado, baby spinach, tomato slices, red onion, mashed chickpeas, grilled peppers, low-fat Greek yoghurt mixed with herbs, homemade tomato salsa, a thin slice of reduced-fat cheese, or beetroot slices on a wholemeal bun.

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