Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure you have everything you need to create this mouth-watering meal. You don’t need to hunt down any exotic ingredients for this dish – it’s all about simplicity and flavor. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 pound of ground turkey
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat for added nutrition)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sweet Potato Fries:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings and Garnishes for the Burger:
- Lettuce, tomato, and onion slices
- Avocado
- Whole grain burger buns
How to Make Turkey Burgers
Making turkey burgers is so easy, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried them sooner! Follow these simple steps to create juicy turkey burgers that are packed with flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will make the process go smoothly. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re using parmesan cheese, grate it finely to help it incorporate better into the burger mixture.
Step 2: Mix the Burger Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan (if using), onion, garlic, and all your seasonings. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this could result in tough burgers.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Once your turkey mixture is ready, divide it into 4 equal portions. Use your hands to form each portion into a patty, pressing lightly to ensure they hold together. If you prefer thicker patties, feel free to adjust the size.
Step 4: Cook the Turkey Burgers
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a little olive oil to coat the surface. Once the pan is hot, place the turkey patties and cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your burgers are fully cooked but still juicy.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the turkey burgers are cooked, place them on whole grain buns and add your favorite toppings. You can go with the classic lettuce, tomato, and onion combo or get creative with avocado, cheese, or pickles. Serve with your sweet potato fries on the side for the ultimate meal!
How to Make Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are the perfect side dish for turkey burgers. They’re crispy, flavorful, and nutritious. Let’s go over how to make them from scratch!
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling your sweet potatoes and cutting them into thin fries. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size to ensure they cook evenly. You can make them thinner for a crispier result or thicker if you prefer a softer texture.
Step 2: Season the Fries
Place the cut sweet potatoes in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss them to coat evenly. Now, season them with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add a little cinnamon for an extra twist of sweetness if you like. Give everything a good toss to ensure the fries are well-coated with the seasonings.
Step 3: Bake the Fries
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on the sheet. Bake them for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Serve them alongside your turkey burgers, and enjoy the sweet and savory combination that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.