Why You Will Love This Recipe
Turkey Burgers with Avocado are a delicious twist on a classic favorite! They’re packed with lean protein, creamy avocado, and bold flavors that make every bite satisfying. These burgers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. Plus, they’re easy to customize—swap toppings, add a kick of spice, or keep it simple. Let’s make this healthy, flavorful meal together!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 burger buns (whole wheat or brioche)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, mayo, or hot sauce
Ingredient Prep Guide
Start by preparing your ingredients for success! Mash the avocado in a small bowl—make sure it’s ripe (slightly soft to the touch) but not brown inside. For the garlic, peel and finely mince the cloves. If you’re using fresh onion for toppings, slice it thinly. Measure out your breadcrumbs and spices to avoid scrambling mid-cook. Pro tip: Let your ground turkey sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before mixing—it’ll blend more evenly with other ingredients.
Equipment & Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Grill or nonstick skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Plate for assembling burgers
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently—don’t overwork the meat, or the burgers will turn out tough. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2-inch thick. Press your thumb lightly into the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
Heat your skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the patties onto the hot surface and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Avoid pressing down on the patties with the spatula—this squeezes out juices and dries them out. The burgers are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use a meat thermometer for accuracy). In the last 2 minutes, toast the buns on the skillet for extra crunch.
Assemble your burgers! Spread mashed avocado on the bottom bun, add the cooked turkey patty, then layer on your favorite toppings. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately. You’ll love how juicy the turkey pairs with the creamy avocado!
Key Details
Total Time: 30 mins (Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins)
🍽️ Servings: 4 people
⚙️ Equipment: Skillet, mixing bowl, spatula
Serving Suggestions
Serve these burgers with crispy sweet potato fries, a light green salad, or grilled corn for a summery vibe. For a low-carb option, skip the bun and wrap the patty in lettuce leaves with extra avocado. These also pair well with tangy sides like pickles or coleslaw to balance the richness of the avocado. Perfect for casual dinners, family cookouts, or meal prep—just store the patties separately from toppings!
Pro Tips
To keep your turkey burgers juicy, use a mix of lean (93%) and dark meat turkey if possible. Lean turkey can dry out easily, but the breadcrumbs and egg help lock in moisture. Don’t skip resting the patties for 5 minutes after cooking—this lets the juices redistribute for maximum flavor.
If you’re cooking indoors, use a cast-iron skillet for a crispy exterior. Cover the skillet with a lid during the last 2 minutes to melt cheese (if adding) and steam the buns lightly. For extra flavor, mix 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce into the turkey mixture before forming patties.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the meat rubbery. Unused avocado can be stored with the pit and a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Troubleshooting
If your burgers are dry, you might have overcooked them or used turkey that’s too lean. Next time, add 1 tbsp olive oil to the meat mixture. If the patties fall apart while cooking, the mixture may need more binding—add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs. If the avocado browns too quickly, toss it with a bit of lime juice before assembling the burgers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Swap turkey for ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based meat. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose.
Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the patties and store them raw in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying.
Can I cook these on a grill?
Definitely! Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, just like on the stove.
Turkey Burgers with Avocado
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey 93% lean
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 burger buns whole wheat or brioche
- Optional toppings: lettuce tomato, red onion, mayo, or hot sauce
Instructions
- First, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently—don’t overwork the meat, or the burgers will turn out tough. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2-inch thick. Press your thumb lightly into the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up while cooking.
- Heat your skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the patties onto the hot surface and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Avoid pressing down on the patties with the spatula—this squeezes out juices and dries them out. The burgers are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use a meat thermometer for accuracy). In the last 2 minutes, toast the buns on the skillet for extra crunch.
- Assemble your burgers! Spread mashed avocado on the bottom bun, add the cooked turkey patty, then layer on your favorite toppings. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately. You’ll love how juicy the turkey pairs with the creamy avocado!
