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Turkey Smash Burger: The Ultimate Guide to Juicy Perfection

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Juicy and flavorful turkey smash burgers with crispy edges, melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and a tangy burger sauce. A healthier twist on a classic!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs Ground Turkey (85% lean recommended)
  • 1 small Yellow Onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 large Egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon Salt, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (for cooking)
  • 4 Brioche Buns, or your favorite burger buns
  • 4 slices Cheddar Cheese, or your preferred cheese
  • 4 slices Bacon, cooked until crispy
  • 1 large Tomato, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Lettuce
  • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Dill Pickle Relish
  • 2 large Yellow Onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Brown Sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar (optional, for deglazing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Turkey Patties: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, diced onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix.
  2. Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a loose ball. Don’t pack them too tightly.
  3. Place the turkey balls on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Caramelized Onions (Optional): Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  5. Add the thinly sliced onions, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to coat the onions with the oil and butter.
  6. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30-45 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown and very soft.
  7. If the onions start to stick to the bottom of the pan, add a tablespoon of water or balsamic vinegar and scrape up any browned bits.
  8. If using, stir in the brown sugar during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  9. Smash and Cook the Turkey Patties: Heat a large cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
  10. Add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet.
  11. Place one of the turkey balls in the skillet. Immediately use a sturdy metal spatula to smash the ball down into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick.
  12. Season the patty with a little extra salt and pepper.
  13. Cook the patty for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through and has a nice, crispy crust.
  14. Flip the patty and immediately top it with a slice of cheddar cheese. Cook for another minute or two, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  15. Remove the patty from the skillet and set aside. Repeat with the remaining turkey balls.
  16. Prepare the Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, and dill pickle relish. Adjust the amounts to your liking.
  17. Stir well to combine.
  18. Assemble the Turkey Smash Burgers: Lightly toast the brioche buns.
  19. Spread a generous amount of burger sauce on both the top and bottom buns.
  20. Place a bed of shredded lettuce on the bottom bun.
  21. Top with a slice of tomato.
  22. Add the cooked turkey patty with melted cheese.
  23. Top with two slices of crispy bacon.
  24. If using, add a spoonful of caramelized onions.
  25. Place the top bun on the burger.
  26. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the turkey patty mixture, as this can result in tough patties.
  • Chilling the patties is a crucial step for smash burgers!
  • The key to perfect caramelized onions is patience! Don’t rush the process.
  • A hot surface is essential for getting that crispy, caramelized crust on the smash burgers.
  • Smash it as thin as you can without tearing the patty.
  • Don’t move the patty around too much while it’s cooking. Let it develop that beautiful crust.
  • Adjust the burger sauce to your liking.
  • Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy.
  • These burgers are best enjoyed hot and fresh.
  • Use high-quality ground turkey: Opt for 85% lean ground turkey for the best flavor and texture. Too lean, and the burgers will be dry.
  • Customize your toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, pickles, or jalapenos.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/turkey-smash-burger/