The Best Juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers: Quick, Healthy & Flavorful
Discover how to make the most incredibly juicy and flavorful air fryer turkey burgers that are perfect for an easy, healthy, and satisfying meal. These tender patties come together with simple ingredients and cook up in a remarkable less than 15 minutes in your air fryer, promising a delicious experience every time. Forget dry, bland turkey burgers – this recipe is designed to deliver a moist, delectable result that might just become your new favorite!
Looking to round out your meal with even more healthy goodness? These versatile turkey burgers pair wonderfully with light and fresh sides like my peach and goat cheese salad, a nutrient-packed superfood salad, or a zesty southwest quinoa salad. The possibilities for a balanced and delicious plate are endless!
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“These are hands down the best turkey burgers I’ve ever made! So juicy and so easy to make in the air fryer.
– Cam
While I certainly appreciate a classic, big, juicy red meat burger, sometimes it’s refreshing to switch things up and opt for a lighter yet equally satisfying option. That’s where these incredible air fryer turkey burgers come in. They offer all the flavor and juiciness you crave, without the heaviness of traditional beef.
One common complaint about turkey burger recipes is that they can often turn out dry and crumbly. But fear not! My secret for keeping these air fryer turkey burgers consistently juicy and utterly delicious is the clever addition of mayonnaise and finely grated onions directly into the patties. These simple ingredients work wonders, infusing moisture and flavor, making dryness a thing of the past. And for those with dietary restrictions, these patties are naturally gluten-free as they don’t require any breadcrumbs to hold their shape, ensuring they stay moist and tender throughout the cooking process.
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making your own burger patties from scratch. This recipe is designed to be incredibly straightforward, requiring only about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll quickly find that these homemade turkey patties are far superior in taste and texture to any store-bought alternative, allowing you to control the ingredients and achieve fresh, vibrant flavors.
These air fryer turkey burgers are fantastic for a quick, wholesome lunch or an easy, satisfying weeknight dinner. If you’re looking for more convenient and delicious meal ideas, you might also enjoy my cashew chicken salad, a hearty chicken sausage sheet pan dinner, flavorful healthy chicken fried rice, simple oven baked fajitas, or a comforting skillet lasagna.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Turkey Burgers
You’ll find a complete list of ingredients and precise amounts for these air fryer turkey burgers in the printable recipe card below. Here are some specific notes and useful substitutions to help you achieve the best results.
- Ground Turkey: The foundation of our burgers! I recommend using ground turkey with a 93% lean / 7% fat ratio for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. However, even leaner 98/2% ground turkey will work beautifully in this recipe thanks to our moisture-enhancing ingredients.
- Onion: Using finely grated yellow or white onion is crucial for adding a subtle savory flavor and, most importantly, ample moisture to the patties. If you’re in a pinch, a red onion can be used, though it might impart a slightly stronger, sharper flavor. Grating the onion ensures its moisture is evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
- Mayonnaise: This is one of our secret weapons for preventing dry turkey burgers. Mayo adds essential fat and moisture, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy patties. While any good quality mayonnaise will do, I highly recommend Primal Kitchen mayo, as it’s made with wholesome avocado oil and free from undesirable seed or vegetable oils, making it a “cleaner” choice.
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a wonderful tangy depth and a hint of spice that elevates the overall flavor profile of the turkey burgers. If you don’t have Dijon, classic yellow mustard can be used as a milder alternative.
- Seasonings (Salt, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder): These foundational seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the turkey and other ingredients, creating a well-rounded and savory burger experience. Adjust to your taste preference!
Clean food tip: Whenever possible, opt for organic ground turkey. Organic turkey is raised without the use of antibiotics and is fed certified organic feed, meaning it’s free from harsh pesticides. Additionally, organic certification requires outdoor access, though the definition can be broad. For the most ethically sourced choice, look for labels that explicitly certify animals were raised humanely, ensuring higher welfare standards.
Elevate Your Turkey Burgers: Flavorful Add-ins
Want to customize your air fryer turkey burgers and infuse even more incredible flavors? Here are some fantastic add-in ideas:
Boost with Veggies: Finely chop and mix in some fresh spinach, sweet bell pepper (any color!), or grated zucchini with the ground turkey. These additions not only add nutrients but also contribute to the patties’ moisture and texture without overwhelming the burger’s main flavor.
Herbs and Spices Galore: Take the flavor up a notch by incorporating fresh chopped herbs like parsley for brightness, scallions for a mild oniony kick, or cilantro for an earthy, citrusy note. For dried seasonings, try a tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix for a savory, herby profile, or a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for aromatic Mediterranean vibes. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can also add delightful warmth or a subtle kick.
How to Make Juicy Turkey Burgers in the Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Ensure all ingredients are present before mixing.
Step 2: Gently Combine Ingredients. Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough burgers. The mixture should be uniform in color and texture.
Step 3: Form the Patties. Divide the mixture into 4 evenly sized portions. Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking, then form each portion into a ball. Place each ball on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and gently press it down into a round patty shape, about ½ inch thick. Using your thumb, create a small indentation in the center of each patty – this helps prevent them from bulging and shrinking during cooking.
Step 4: Chill and Preheat. Place the baking sheet with the formed patties into the freezer for a minimum of 20 minutes. This crucial step helps the patties firm up and hold their shape better, preventing them from falling apart when transferred to the air fryer. While the patties are chilling, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection. Once your air fryer is preheated, carefully transfer the chilled turkey patties to the air fryer basket using a spatula. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded, which allows for even cooking. Air fry for 12-14 minutes, flipping the burgers halfway through the cooking time, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Top and Enjoy! Remove the cooked turkey burgers from the air fryer. If you’re adding cheese, turn off the air fryer, place cheese slices on top of the hot burgers, and return the basket for about 1-2 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings and enjoy your incredibly juicy homemade air fryer turkey burgers!
Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Achieving perfectly juicy and flavorful turkey burgers in your air fryer is simple with these helpful tips:
- The Thumb Dent Secret: Before cooking, make a small indentation in the center of each patty using your thumb. This simple trick helps prevent the burger from shrinking and bulging in the middle as it cooks, ensuring an even patty shape.
- Wet Hands for Easy Handling: The turkey mixture can be a bit sticky. Lightly moisten your hands with water before forming the patties to prevent the meat from sticking, making the process much smoother and cleaner.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Overworking the meat can lead to a tougher, less tender burger. Gentle handling is key to a juicy patty.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook the burgers in a single layer without overlapping. This allows the hot air to circulate properly around each patty, ensuring even cooking and a deliciously crisp exterior. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Make it a Cheeseburger: For a gooey, cheesy treat, add your favorite slice of cheese (cheddar, provolone, or Swiss are great!) after the turkey patties are fully cooked. Simply turn off your air fryer, place the cheese on the hot burgers, and return the basket to the still-warm air fryer. The residual heat will melt the cheese beautifully in less than 2 minutes.
- Trust Your Thermometer: Always use a reliable instant digital read meat thermometer to ensure your turkey burgers reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is crucial for food safety and guarantees a perfectly cooked, juicy result every time.
Essential Equipment for Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
To whip up these fantastic air fryer turkey burgers, you’ll need just a few key pieces of kitchen equipment:
Air Fryer: This is the star of the show! An air fryer cooks these burgers quickly and efficiently, giving them a lovely texture. I’ve personally used an air fryer from Instant Vortex for years and highly recommend it for its reliability. Many also rave about Philips air fryers. Whichever brand you choose, pay attention to the size. My 6-quart model is perfect for cooking multiple patties without overcrowding, and I wouldn’t recommend going any smaller to ensure optimal air circulation and cooking performance.
Meat Thermometer: Absolutely essential for food safety and perfectly cooked burgers. A good quality instant digital read meat thermometer will let you know precisely when your turkey burgers have reached the required internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are safe to eat and perfectly cooked without being dry.
Spatula: A thin, sturdy spatula is ideal for gently transferring the delicate patties to and from the air fryer basket without them breaking apart.
Choosing the Best Ground Turkey for Your Burgers
When you’re shopping for ground turkey, you’ll typically encounter a few different options, most commonly 98% lean/2% fat or 93% lean/7% fat. You might even find 85% lean/15% fat in some stores. Generally, the higher the fat content, the more inherently juicy and flavorful your turkey will be.
For these air fryer turkey burgers, I highly recommend using the 93% lean / 7% fat blend. This ratio strikes a perfect balance, providing enough fat for excellent flavor and moisture while still keeping the burger relatively lean. However, the beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly forgiving. Thanks to the magic of mayonnaise and grated onion, you’ll still achieve a wonderfully juicy and flavorful burger, regardless of whether you opt for 98/2% lean or even 85/15% lean ground turkey. So feel free to use what you have on hand or what best fits your dietary preferences!
Common Questions About Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Absolutely! The air fryer is excellent for cooking frozen turkey burgers. To do so, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Place the frozen turkey patties directly into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for approximately 13-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary slightly depending on your specific air fryer model and the thickness of the burger patties.
The most reliable way to determine if a turkey burger is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the patty; it should register an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Additionally, you can check for visual cues: the burger should no longer be pink in the center, and the juices should run clear. Unlike beef, ground turkey should never be undercooked due to the risk of salmonella and other foodborne illnesses.
The “healthier” choice between ground turkey and ground beef largely depends on your individual dietary goals and preferences. Both are excellent sources of high-quality protein. Generally, ground turkey tends to be lower in calories and typically has a lower fat content, especially leaner varieties. However, lean ground beef can also be a healthy choice. Ultimately, both can be part of a balanced diet. I believe both are great options, and the best choice is the one that fits your personal health needs and taste preferences.
Yes, you absolutely can! You can form the patties and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes meal prep a breeze. For longer storage, you can freeze the raw, formed patties, as detailed in the “Storing and Freezing” section below.
Leftover turkey burgers reheat beautifully in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cooked burgers in the basket and air fry for 4-6 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps them juicy and prevents them from drying out.
Delicious Toppings and Perfect Side Dishes
Transform your air fryer turkey burger into a gourmet experience with these delicious toppings:
- Fresh, crisp lettuce leaves
- Ripe tomato slices
- Thinly sliced red onion or caramelized onions
- Crunchy dill pickles
- Crispy bacon strips
- Melted cheese (cheddar, provolone, Swiss)
- Creamy goat cheese for a tangy twist
- Classic mayonnaise or a garlic aioli
- Slices of creamy avocado or a scoop of guacamole
- A dollop of vibrant kale vegan pesto
- Zesty dairy-free Ranch dressing
- Sweet and smoky Whole30 BBQ sauce
- Spicy jalapeño slices for a kick
- Sautéed mushrooms for an umami boost
And complete your well-rounded meal by serving your turkey burgers alongside some of these delightful side dishes:
- A refreshing healthy broccoli salad
- Crispy air fryer smashed potatoes
- Hearty Roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes
- Tangy Paleo coleslaw
- Savory roasted cauliflower steaks
- A light and flavorful grilled vegetable pasta salad
- Sweet potato fries or regular French fries
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
Storing and Freezing Your Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Storing Leftovers: Any leftover cooked turkey burgers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing for Future Meals: These turkey burgers freeze exceptionally well, whether cooked or uncooked! For raw patties, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For cooked burgers, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen turkey burgers can be stored for up to 6 months. I highly recommend making a double batch and freezing some for those busy days when you need a quick, healthy meal!
More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes to Try!
Love the convenience and delicious results of air frying? Explore these other fantastic air fryer recipes from Clean Plate Mama:
- Easy Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Apples
- Air Fryer Baby Carrots (with honey glaze)
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Eat Clean. Be Healthy!
Sara
Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
burgers, dinner, Main Course
American
Gluten Free
10
12
20
42
4 burgers
Sara
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Equipment
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1 Air Fryer
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1 Mixing bowl
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1 Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground turkey
- ¼ cup grated yellow or white onion (see notes)
- ½ tsp. fine sea salt
- ½ tsp. onion powder
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tbsp. mayonnaise
- 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
Instructions
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. This will be used for chilling the patties.
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Add all listed ingredients (ground turkey, grated onion, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard) to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Using your hands, gently combine the ingredients until they are evenly blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
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To prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands, lightly moisten them before forming the patties. Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal-sized pieces. Form each piece into a ball in your hands, then place it on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press each ball down into a round patty, about ½ inch thick. For best results, use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each patty; this helps prevent the burger from shrinking and bulging during cooking. Repeat for all 4 patties.
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Place the baking sheet with the formed patties into the freezer for a minimum of 20 minutes. This essential step helps the patties firm up and hold their shape, ensuring they don’t fall apart when you transfer them to the air fryer basket.
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Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Once it’s preheated, use a spatula to gently transfer the chilled turkey patties to the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket to allow for optimal air circulation.
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Air fry the turkey burgers for 12-14 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Remember to flip the burgers halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and doneness.
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If you’re adding cheese, turn off the air fryer after the burgers are cooked. Place a slice of cheese on each hot burger, then return the basket to the air fryer. Let the residual heat melt the cheese perfectly; this should take less than 2 minutes.
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Serve your delicious air fryer turkey burgers immediately with your choice of buns, lettuce wraps, and favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Notes
- To grate the onion, place a box grater on a stack of 2-3 paper towels. Using the largest side of the grater, finely grate the onion until you have ¼ cup. Allow the paper towels to soak up some of the moisture from the onions (there’s no need to squeeze out the moisture completely – a little bit helps keep the burgers moist!).
- If you need this recipe to be Whole30/Paleo compliant, ensure you use a Whole30-approved mayonnaise, such as Primal Kitchen. All other ingredients in this recipe are Whole30/Paleo approved.
- If the patties get slightly smushed or lose their shape a little when you move them to the air fryer basket, don’t worry! You can easily reshape them gently once they are in the air fryer.
- Stovetop Cooking Directions: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook these turkey patties on the stovetop. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the turkey patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Please remember that different air fryer models have varying wattage levels, which can impact cooking times and temperatures. For the best results, you may need to adjust the cooking time or temperature slightly for your specific appliance. Always rely on a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
Nutrition
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