Get ready to transform your ordinary burger night into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Grilled Turkey Burgers with Cheddar and Smoky Aioli are not just another meal - they're a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your taste buds dancing and your dinner guests begging for the recipe. Forget bland, dry turkey burgers of the past; this recipe is about to redefine your grilling game with a perfect blend of juicy turkey, melted cheddar, and a smoky aioli that will make your palate sing with joy.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of ground turkey, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tsp of smoked paprika, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, salt, pepper, and 4 burger buns.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, shredded cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
- Divide the turkey mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Lightly oil the grill grates or the grill pan to prevent sticking.
- While the grill is heating, prepare the smoky aioli. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
- Once the grill is hot, place the turkey patties on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on one side without moving them to achieve a nice sear.
- After 5 minutes, carefully flip the patties using a spatula. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
- While the burgers are cooking, you can toast the burger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Once the burgers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps retain their juices.
- To assemble the burgers, spread a generous amount of the smoky aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the turkey patty on top, then add any additional toppings you like, such as lettuce, tomato, or pickles. Finish with the top half of the bun.
- Serve the grilled turkey burgers immediately with your favorite sides, such as fries or a salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Keep the meat cold: Chill your ground turkey before mixing to help the patties hold together better.
- Don't overwork the meat: Mix ingredients gently to maintain a tender, juicy burger texture.
- Create a dimple: Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Let the burgers rest: Allow the patties to rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling to retain their juices.
- Experiment with toppings: While the smoky aioli is delicious, feel free to add your favorite fresh vegetables or additional condiments.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 486kcal
Carbohydrates: 34g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 96mg
