Juicy Turkey Burgers with Zucchini
Juicy and packed with flavor, these turkey burgers are the ultimate twist on a classic. By blending in grated zucchini, each patty remains moist and tender, making it easy to enjoy a healthier burger without sacrificing taste.
The hidden zucchini is perfect for sneaking extra veggies into meals, especially for picky eaters. It adds a boost of nutrition while keeping the burgers light and satisfying, all with a subtle flavor that doesn’t overpower the turkey.
Whether you choose to cook them on the stovetop, grill, or air fryer, these turkey burgers come together with minimal effort and deliver maximum satisfaction. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Zucchini – Ingredients
- Ground Turkey – Lean, tender, and the perfect base for juicy burgers, offering a lighter yet hearty alternative to traditional beef.
- Grated Zucchini – The secret ingredient that brings unmatched moisture and a subtle veggie boost, keeping each bite irresistibly juicy.
- Seasoned Breadcrumbs – Adds a delicate crunch and binds the burgers, ensuring a cohesive and flavorful bite every time.
- Garlic & Red Onion – Aromatic essentials that infuse each patty with a savory depth and a hint of sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Kosher Salt & Fresh Pepper – Simple yet essential, these seasonings bring out the best in each ingredient, adding the perfect finishing touch to every burger.
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Zucchini
Recipe Tips
- Perfectly Squeeze the Zucchini
For juicy, well-textured burgers, removing excess moisture from the zucchini is essential. After grating, press the zucchini firmly between paper towels or a clean cloth until no water remains. Any retained moisture can make the patties soggy, preventing them from browning evenly and holding their shape. Properly squeezing the zucchini ensures it binds well with the turkey, helping each burger stay juicy and flavorful without falling apart. - Don’t Overwork the Meat Mixture
When combining ingredients, mix gently to keep the burgers light and tender. Overmixing the turkey with zucchini and seasonings can lead to a denser, less flavorful burger. Aim to handle the meat mixture as little as possible, only blending until ingredients are evenly distributed. Form the patties with a light touch, shaping them just thick enough to cook through without drying out. - Cook Over Medium Heat for Even Doneness
Whether you’re grilling, pan-frying, or using an air fryer, moderate heat is key to cooking turkey burgers evenly. High heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked, so opt for medium heat to allow thorough cooking. Flip the burgers occasionally to prevent charring and ensure they reach a safe internal temperature (165°F). This technique will help you achieve a juicy interior with a deliciously browned crust.
What to Serve with Juicy Turkey Burgers with Zucchini
- Sweet Potato Fries
These crispy, lightly seasoned sweet potato fries add a perfect touch of sweetness and crunch to the meal. They balance the savoriness of the turkey burgers while providing a healthy side that’s rich in fiber and vitamins. Bake or air-fry the sweet potatoes until golden and enjoy with a sprinkle of sea salt. - Mixed Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
A refreshing green salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette complements these burgers beautifully. Toss arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette for a light, zesty side. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the richness of the burger, creating a balanced and satisfying plate. - Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob, grilled to golden perfection and brushed with a bit of olive oil or herb butter, makes a fantastic side for these turkey burgers. The slight smokiness and sweetness of the corn add contrast, enhancing the flavors of the juicy patties. Sprinkle with fresh herbs or a dash of chili powder for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQ
- Can I make these turkey burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separating each patty with parchment paper. Just cook them when ready to serve for maximum juiciness. - Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
Absolutely. Lay the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. - What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
You can substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free option. These alternatives help bind the ingredients, maintaining the burger’s texture and shape. - How can I prevent the burgers from sticking to the grill?
Ensure your grill is clean and well-oiled before cooking. Spray or brush a light layer of oil on the grill grates and lightly oil the patties to prevent sticking and help them release easily once browned.
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Zucchini
The hidden zucchini is perfect for sneaking extra veggies into meals, especially for picky eaters. It adds a boost of nutrition while keeping the burgers light and satisfying, all with a subtle flavor that doesn’t overpower the turkey.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey 93% lean
- 6 oz grated zucchini squeezed to 4.25 oz after draining
- 1/4 cup seasoned whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp grated red onion
- 1 clove garlic grated
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Oil spray
Instructions
- Drain the zucchini thoroughly by pressing it between layers of paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, zucchini, breadcrumbs, grated garlic, red onion, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into five equal patties, each about 4 ounces, ensuring they are not too thick to allow even cooking.
- For Stove Cooking: Heat a large nonstick skillet over high heat. When hot, lightly coat with oil spray. Place the patties in the skillet, then reduce heat to low. Cook until browned on one side, then flip. Turn the patties occasionally to avoid burning and ensure they cook through completely.
- For Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat and clean thoroughly. Spray the grill grate with oil spray to prevent sticking. Grill the burgers for approximately 5 minutes on each side, or until the center is no longer pink.
- For Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F. Arrange the patties in a single layer, cooking in two batches if needed. Cook each batch for 10 minutes, turning halfway through until both sides are browned and the centers are fully cooked.
