Did you know ground turkey is a healthier choice than ground beef1? But, turkey burgers can be dry and tasteless because they need to be cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit1. Luckily, unsweetened apple sauce is the secret to keeping them juicy and tasty1!
In this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect air fryer turkey burger. You’ll learn how to mix the ingredients, cook them to perfection, and get the right temperature. Say goodbye to dry turkey burgers and hello to tender, juicy ones that will make your taste buds happy.
Key Takeaways
- Ground turkey is a healthier alternative to ground beef in burger recipes.
- Unsweetened apple sauce is the secret ingredient to keep turkey burgers moist and flavorful.
- Air frying turkey burgers at 360°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, results in perfectly cooked patties.
- Frozen turkey burgers require 18 minutes of air frying time.
- Proper internal temperature of 165°F ensures food safety for turkey burgers.
Introduction to Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Air fryer turkey burgers are a healthier and easier option than traditional grilled or pan-fried ones. The air fryer cooks the burgers fast and evenly. This makes them juicy and tender, without needing extra oil or butter2. It also means no messy splatters or hard cleanup, perfect for busy weeknights.
Benefits of Air Frying Turkey Burgers
Air frying your turkey burgers has many benefits. It makes the burgers healthier by cutting down on fat and calories2. The air fryer’s quick air flow ensures they cook evenly, making them juicy and full of flavor3. Plus, it’s super convenient, saving you time and effort compared to grilling or pan-frying2.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Healthier Cooking | Air frying reduces the amount of fat and calories compared to traditional cooking methods2. |
| Consistent Cooking | The air fryer’s rapid air circulation ensures even cooking for juicy, flavorful turkey burgers3. |
| Convenience | Air frying eliminates the need for extensive preparation and cleaning associated with other cooking methods2. |
The air fryer makes cooking delicious turkey burgers at home easy and healthy. It uses rapid air circulation to cook the burgers perfectly, without the mess of traditional methods.
“Air fryer turkey burgers are a game-changer for weeknight meals. They’re quick, easy, and so much healthier than pan-frying or grilling.”
Ingredients for Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
To make delicious air fryer turkey burgers, you need a few key ingredients. Start with high-quality ground turkey, preferably 93% lean for juiciness4. Add unsweetened applesauce to keep them moist. Grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and smoked paprika are also important.
These ingredients add great flavor and keep the burgers tender and juicy. Each burger has over 22 grams of protein4. This makes them a healthy and filling option for your meal.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Turkey (93% lean) | 1 lb |
| Unsweetened Applesauce | ⅓ cup |
| Grated Yellow Onion | ⅓ cup |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 2 tsp |
| Breadcrumbs | ¼ cup |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp |
| Smoked Paprika | ½ tsp |
With these essential ingredients for air fryer turkey burgers4, you’re set to make juicy, tasty burgers. They’re low in carbs4 and great for a healthy meal.
Preparing the Turkey Burger Mixture
To make the perfect air fryer turkey burger, start with the right mix of ingredients5. Use 85% lean ground turkey for a good taste and soft texture5. This recipe makes 4 tasty turkey burger patties5. They cook in the air fryer at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 14 minutes5.
Make sure the turkey patties reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the center for safety5.
Mixing Ground Turkey with Flavorful Ingredients
Start by grating half an onion with a box grater or food processor6. Then, mix the grated onion, 1 pound of5 ground turkey, 1 cup of butter cracker crumbs5, 1 large egg5, 1 tablespoon of chopped chives5, and 2 teaspoons of seasoned salt in a big bowl5. Mix everything well with your hands6.
Add a tablespoon of6 Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for extra flavor6. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, thyme, or tarragon for more aroma and taste6. A little6 mayonnaise or egg helps keep the patties moist and holds them together6.
Now, shape the turkey mixture into patties and chill them before cooking in the air fryer7.
Shaping and Chilling the Turkey Burger Patties
To get perfect air fryer turkey burgers, shaping and chilling the patties is key8. Divide the turkey burger mix into four parts. Then, shape each part into a patty, about 4-5 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick9.
Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Put them in the fridge for 30 minutes9. This step makes the patties firm and keeps them from falling apart8. Chilling is vital for juicy, cohesive burgers8.
Choose a 93/7% lean-to-fat ground turkey for the juiciest burgers8. Avoid very lean turkey to keep burgers moist and tender8.
By shaping and chilling your turkey burger patties right, you’ll get juicy, perfectly cooked air fryer turkey burgers. They’ll be delicious and hold their shape well89.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before cooking your air fryer turkey burgers, preheating the air fryer is key. It makes sure your burgers cook evenly and at the right temperature10.
To preheat, just run the air fryer at 360°F for about 3 minutes. This quick step gets the air fryer ready to cook your turkey burgers perfectly10.
After preheating, you can put your turkey burger patties in. Let the air fryer do its magic. This way, your burgers will always be perfectly cooked10.
Remember, the air fryer should be at 360°F for turkey burgers. This temperature is just right. It cooks the burgers through while keeping them juicy and flavorful10.
By preheating your air fryer well, you’re preparing for a great air fryer turkey burger. Get ready for a perfectly cooked, golden-brown burger that will delight your taste buds10.
How to Cook a Turkey Burger in an Air Fryer
Cooking Time and Temperature for Fresh Turkey Burgers
Getting your air fryer turkey burgers ready is easy. First, preheat your air fryer. Then, put the turkey burger patties in the basket, making sure they don’t touch each other11. Cook them at 360°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re done when they hit 165°F, as checked with a meat thermometer11.
The patties should be 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick11. This recipe makes 4 servings11. Each serving has about 136 calories, 2g carbs, 27g protein, and 2g fat11. For juicier burgers, use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking11.
You can swap the turkey for beef or chicken if you like11. The patties can be frozen for up to 3 months11.
“The cooking time for Air Fryer Turkey Burgers is 7 minutes on one side, then flipping and cooking for another 7 minutes or until fully cooked.”11
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Getting delicious air fryer turkey burgers is simple with a few tips. First, lightly grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking12. This makes cooking smooth and patties easy to remove.
Chill the turkey burger patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This keeps them from falling apart during air frying12. Also, use a meat thermometer to check if they’re cooked to 165°F12.
Let the cooked turkey burgers rest for 5 minutes before serving. This makes them juicier and more flavorful12. By following these tips, you’ll get juicy air fryer turkey burgers every time.
But there’s more to making great air fryer turkey burgers. Try different seasonings and flavors to make them your own13. With practice and these tips, you’ll master air frying turkey burgers.
“The key to perfectly cooked air fryer turkey burgers is all about the little details – from proper prepping to precise cooking temperatures and times.” – Grilling Guru
Serving Suggestions and Toppings
When serving air fryer turkey burgers, you can get creative! These patties go well with many classic toppings14. For a juicy burger, use an 85/15 blend of fresh ground turkey14. Try adding crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and creamy mayonnaise14.
For something different, drizzle your turkey burgers with cranberry sauce or barbecue sauce14. Air fryer turkey burgers are also great in a lettuce wrap or on a toasted whole wheat bun15.
Classic Burger Toppings for Turkey Burgers
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Onion
- Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, etc.)
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise
- Pickles
| Topping | Description |
|---|---|
| Lettuce | Crisp, fresh lettuce like romaine or iceberg provides a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm turkey burger. |
| Tomato | Juicy, ripe tomato slices add a burst of freshness and acidity to balance the richness of the turkey. |
| Onion | Thinly sliced red or white onion lends a savory, pungent flavor and a satisfying crunch. |
| Cheese | Melted cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese complements the turkey’s natural flavors. |
| Condiments | Classic condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise help tie all the flavors together. |
| Pickles | Tangy, crunchy dill or bread and butter pickles add a welcome acidic note. |
Remember, air fryer turkey burgers are super versatile. Feel free to try different toppings and flavors to find your favorite15! Pair them with tasty sides like crispy air fryer french fries or roasted sweet potato wedges16.
Cooking Frozen Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer
If you have pre-made frozen turkey burgers, you can cook them in the air fryer without thawing17. Just put the frozen patties in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F for 18 minutes, flipping halfway17. Make sure the burgers reach 165°F before serving17.
Frozen turkey burgers cook in just 15 minutes in the air fryer17. They are usually ⅓ pound each17. Air frying gives better results than other methods17. Plus, turkey burgers are healthier than beef because they have less saturated fat17.
The frozen turkey burgers are about 1 inch thick18. Cook them at 370°F for 15 minutes18. Flip them halfway, around 7 to 8 minutes in18.
Frozen turkey patties make mealtime easy, needing just one ingredient and air frying19. Turkey is lean, making it healthier than other meats. Air frying also cuts down on grease, making it great for those watching their health19.
To cook frozen turkey patties, preheat to 380 degrees for 2 minutes19. Then, air fry for 16 minutes, flipping halfway. Don’t overcrowd the basket19. Turkey burgers are perfect for the air fryer, along with other frozen patties like salmon, beef, or plant-based ones19.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Air Fryer Cooking Time | 15 minutes17 |
| Patty Size | ⅓ pound each17 |
| Recommended Internal Temperature | 165°F17 |
| Servings | 417 |
| Calories per Serving | 773kcal17 |
| Protein per Serving | 50g17 |
Storing and Reheating Leftover Turkey Burgers
After enjoying your air fryer turkey burgers, it’s key to store leftovers right. This keeps their taste and texture fresh. Cooked turkey burgers can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days20. Let them cool down first, then put them in a sealed container.
For longer storage, wrap each burger in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, the air fryer is the top choice20. Just put the burgers in the air fryer at 360°F for 4-5 minutes20. This method keeps the burgers juicy and flavorful20.
Before reheating, let the burgers sit at room temperature for 10 minutes20. This ensures they heat evenly and avoids cold spots20. Keep in mind, different air fryers might need slight cooking time adjustments20.
By using these tips, your leftover air fryer turkey burgers will taste just as good as the first time2021. They’re perfect for family gatherings or a quick meal20.
Side Dish Ideas to Serve with Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Air fryer turkey burgers are a tasty and healthy main dish. They really come alive when paired with the right sides22. Some excellent choices include air fryer french fries, sweet potato fries, potato wedges, and brussels sprouts22. These sides not only match the turkey burgers well but also make the meal complete.
For a classic choice, make some crispy air fryer french fries23. They cook quickly and use less oil, making them golden and fluffy23. Sweet potato fries are also a hit, adding a sweet and savory touch to the meal22.
For something different, try air fryer potato wedges22. They’re easy to make and pair well with the turkey burgers22. Air fryer brussels sprouts are a healthy green option, balancing the meal’s richness22.
Choosing the right sides is key to making your air fryer turkey burgers shine22. With the perfect sides, your meal will be both satisfying and well-rounded22.
Conclusion
Air fryer turkey burgers are a tasty, healthy, and easy option for home meals. Adding unsweetened applesauce and grated onion makes the burgers juicy and flavorful24. The air fryer cooks the patties fast and evenly, making it great for quick dinners.
For air fryer turkey burgers, start with ground turkey 85/1525. Cook at 360°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway2425. Make sure they hit 165°F2425. Follow these steps to make perfect air fryer turkey burgers.
Air fryer turkey burgers are a better choice than beef burgers, with the option to use lettuce leaves instead of buns25. You can add many toppings and seasonings to make your burger unique and delicious at home.
FAQ
Can I use frozen turkey burgers in the air fryer?
How long do I need to cook turkey burgers in the air fryer?
What ingredients do I need to make juicy air fryer turkey burgers?
How do I store and reheat leftover air fryer turkey burgers?
What are some good side dishes to serve with air fryer turkey burgers?
Source Links
- The Juiciest Air Fryer Turkey Burgers (Seasoned and Flavorful) – https://www.myforkinglife.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – Kristine’s Kitchen – https://kristineskitchenblog.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – Simply Happy Foodie – https://www.simplyhappyfoodie.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Juiciest Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://healthfulblondie.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Quick & Easy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers | Airfried.com – https://airfried.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://thealmondeater.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- How to Cook Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer (Perfectly!) – https://foodess.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://cleanplatemama.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fried Turkey Burgers that don’t STICK! – https://thesaltedpepper.com/southwest-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://fooddoodles.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://www.alliannaskitchen.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://alwaysusebutter.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – The Recipe Rebel – https://www.thereciperebel.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://preppykitchen.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers (Healthy & Easy) – https://basicswithbails.com/course/juicy-air-fryer-turkey-burgers-healthy-easy/
- Easy Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://www.bucketlisttummy.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- How to Make Frozen Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer | AirFried.com – https://airfried.com/how-to-make-frozen-turkey-burgers-in-the-air-fryer/
- 15 Minute Air Fryer Frozen Turkey Burgers – Biscuits and Grading – https://www.biscuitsandgrading.com/15-minute-air-fryer-frozen-turkey-burgers/
- Frozen Turkey Patties in Air Fryer and Helpful Tips – https://www.deliciouslyseasoned.com/frozen-turkey-patties-in-air-fryer/
- Reheat Burger in Air Fryer – https://airfryingfoodie.com/reheat-burger-in-air-fryer/
- Easy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – https://jz-eats.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers/
- The Best Sides for Turkey Burgers – https://twocloveskitchen.com/sides-for-turkey-burgers/
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – Simply Made Eats – https://simplymadeeats.com/5662/air-fryer-turkey-burger-sliders/
- Tasty and Healthy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers Recipe – https://www.alsothecrumbsplease.com/air-fryer-turkey-burgers-recipe/
- How Long to Cook Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer? (2024) – https://wannaburger.com/how-long-to-cook-turkey-burgers-in-the-air-fryer/