If you’re looking for a delicious way to bring the flavors of fall to your dinner table, these Apple Turkey Burgers are just the ticket! They combine juicy ground turkey with sweet honeycrisp apples, creating a burger that’s not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something that pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, the addition of creamy cranberry aioli and crunchy kale apple slaw makes each bite a delightful experience.
These burgers are a family favourite across the US and UK, offering a unique twist on traditional burgers. Whether you’re firing up the grill or baking them in the oven, you’ll love how simple and satisfying they are!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these burgers in no time.
- Family-Friendly: The sweet apple flavor is sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
- Healthier Alternative: Using ground turkey keeps things lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the patties in advance and enjoy quick meals throughout the week.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of savory and sweet, especially with the cranberry aioli, is simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be pleased to know that these Apple Turkey Burgers use simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful dish!
For the Burgers
- 1 pound (16 ounces) ground turkey
- ½ cup finely diced honeycrisp apple
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cranberry Aioli
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup whole cranberry sauce (homemade or from a can)
- ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices white cheddar cheese
- kale apple slaw
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Swap the protein: Use lean ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.
- Change up the fruit: Experiment with different apples or add diced pears for an extra twist.
- Add spices: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little kick.
- Go gluten-free: Serve on lettuce wraps instead of buns for a low-carb option.
How to Make Apple Turkey Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Aioli
Start by making your cranberry aioli. Microwave the cranberry sauce for about 30 seconds until lightly melted — this helps incorporate it smoothly with mayonnaise. Whisk together mayonnaise, cranberry sauce, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chilling it in the refrigerator enhances its flavor while you prepare the burgers!
Step 2: Mix the Burger Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, diced apples, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly — this ensures that every bite has that delicious apple flavor and seasoning evenly distributed throughout.
Step 3: Form Your Patties
Divide your mixture into four equal parts and shape each into a flat hamburger patty. Making them uniform in size ensures they cook evenly — no one likes an undercooked burger!
Step 4: Cook on the Grill
Preheat your grill to 350 degrees F. Place your patties on the grates and cook covered for about 5 minutes until they release easily from the grill. Flip them over and cook for another 5-8 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Add cheese during the last couple of minutes so it melts beautifully over each burger.
Step 5: Bake Option
If you prefer baking over grilling, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F instead. Place your patties on a nonstick-sprayed baking sheet and bake for around 13 minutes total (flipping halfway). Just like grilling, add cheese during those last few minutes!
Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers
Once cooked through, serve your apple turkey burgers on soft buns spread with that luscious cranberry aioli. Finish off with a generous helping of kale apple slaw for some crunch and freshness! Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Pro Tips for Making Apple Turkey Burgers
Making apple turkey burgers is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your cooking game!
- Choose the right apples: Using honeycrisp or Fuji apples adds a sweet crunch that complements the savory turkey and enhances the burger’s flavor profile.
- Don’t overmix the turkey: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the burgers tender and juicy; overmixing can lead to a dense patty.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your burgers are cooked perfectly to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for safety and optimal juiciness.
- Let them rest: Allow your burgers to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps retain their juices for a more flavorful bite.
- Customize your toppings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add extra toppings like avocado or spicy mustard to suit your taste!
How to Serve Apple Turkey Burgers
Presenting your apple turkey burgers in an appealing way can make all the difference during mealtime. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top of the burgers for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pickled red onions: These add tanginess and a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the apple in your burgers.
Side Dishes
- Sweet potato fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they complement the flavors of the apple turkey burger and provide a satisfying crunch.
- Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing side that’s packed with nutrients.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their crispy texture and nutty flavor pair wonderfully with the juicy burgers, creating a delightful balance.
- Fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can add brightness and freshness, making it an ideal side that echoes the apple theme!
Make Ahead and Storage
Apple Turkey Burgers are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. You can store leftovers or even freeze them for later!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and quality.
Freezing
- Wrap each cooled burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped burgers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw burgers overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- To reheat, place on a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side or until heated through.
- Alternatively, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until warmed.
FAQs
Can I make Apple Turkey Burgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a day or two before cooking. This makes weeknight meals super convenient!
What should I serve with Apple Turkey Burgers?
These burgers pair beautifully with kale apple slaw and cranberry aioli. You can also add sweet potato fries or a fresh salad on the side for a complete meal.
How do I know when my Apple Turkey Burgers are done?
Cook your burgers until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I use other types of ground meat for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe is specifically for turkey, you can substitute it with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making these Apple Turkey Burgers as much as I do! They capture the essence of fall with their delightful flavors and are sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these tasty burgers. Happy cooking!
Apple Turkey Burgers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Apple Turkey Burgers are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall while enjoying a nutritious meal. Combining juicy ground turkey with sweet honeycrisp apples, this recipe offers a unique twist on traditional burgers that both kids and adults will love. The addition of creamy cranberry aioli and crunchy kale apple slaw elevates each bite, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. These burgers can be grilled or baked, providing versatility for any cooking method you prefer. With easy preparation steps and customizable options, these Apple Turkey Burgers are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- ½ cup finely diced honeycrisp apple
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup whole cranberry sauce
- ½ teaspoon dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices white cheddar cheese
- kale apple slaw
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry aioli by microwaving cranberry sauce until lightly melted, then whisk with mayonnaise, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator.
- In a bowl, combine ground turkey, diced apples, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
- Shape the mixture into four equal patties.
- Grill at 350°F for 5 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Alternatively, bake at 400°F for approximately 13 minutes.
- Assemble burgers with cranberry aioli on buns topped with kale apple slaw.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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