Easy Cast-Iron Turkey Burgers

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These healthy cast-iron turkey burgers are perfect for busy days when you want a quick, wholesome meal. Pair it with grilled veggies for a simple, nutritious dinner in no time! This recipe is foolproof and excellent for busy weeknights

Cast Iron Turkey Burgers
Nena’s Wellness Corner

Why You’ll Like These Turkey Burger Patties

  • Gentle on your stomach: Many people enjoy juicy ground beef burgers but deal with uncomfortable bloating afterward—I used to be one of them. It wasn’t until I started learning about healthy eating that I discovered my bloating was linked to red meat. At the time, I ate red meat regularly and felt the discomfort just as often. Curious to see if my diet was the cause, I switched to white meats like chicken and turkey for a while. The results were terrific—my bloating and stomach issues improved significantly. When I reintroduced red meat, the bloating returned, confirming the connection. After that, I cut out beef from my family meals and only occasionally included pork. Now, I focus on chicken, turkey, and fish as my primary protein sources, and my stomach has never felt better. It’s incredible how one simple change can have such a significant impact.
  • Wholesome and nutritious: Made with simple, clean ingredients, this recipe aligns perfectly with a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Quick and easy: perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Versatile pairing: These burgers are delicious, and they can be paired with fresh veggies, a side salad, or even lettuce for a low-carb option.
  • Family-friendly: This recipe is a hit with all ages, making it a great addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Ready to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal? For more turkey inspiration, check out my Healthy and Easy Turkey Meatballs recipe with Tomato Sauce!

Homemade Turkey Burgers Recipe Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey: Opt for dark meat for juicier burgers.
  • 1 small onion: Finely chop into tiny cubes to blend seamlessly into the mixture.
  • 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs: I prefer plain, unsalted breadcrumbs to control the seasoning. They add just enough crunch to help bind the spices evenly.
  • Salt and pepper: Adjust to your taste. I typically use 1/2 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of black pepper, keeping the seasoning light.
  • 1/4 tsp dill: Ground dill is an excellent complement to meat and works beautifully in cucumber salads.
  • 1/2 tsp oregano: A favorite addition to meats and potatoes. Inspired by my visits to Greece, where oregano elevates almost every dish.
  • 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Enhances the flavor and helps create a crisp, golden crust while cooking.
Ingredients needed for Cast Iron Turkey Burgers
Nena’s Wellness Corner

Substitutions

  • Ground turkey: Swap it with ground chicken for a similar lean protein option with comparable flavor and texture.
  • Onion: Use shallots for a milder, slightly sweeter flavor or green onions for a lighter, fresh taste.
  • Olive oil: Replace with avocado oil, another healthy option with a high smoke point.
  • Oregano and dill: For a fresh herbal twist, try Italian seasoning, basil, thyme, or parsley. Add cumin or paprika for a smoky, slightly spicy flavor, or add any of your favorite seasonings. 

How to Prepare These Juicy Cast Iron Turkey Burgers

  • Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine turkey, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, oregano, and dill. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Do not overmix the meat mixture, which can make the burgers dense.
  • Form the turkey patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 4-6 equal portions. I like making smaller patties, so I ended up with 6. Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.
  • Heat the skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the skillet to heat up for about 2 minutes.
  • Cook the burgers: Place the patties in the hot cast-iron skillet. Cook on the first side without moving them for 5-6 minutes to develop a nice crust. Flip the patties gently and cook on the second side for 5-7 minutes, or use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature until it reaches 165°F (74°C). You want to achieve a nice golden brown color. 
  • Rest the burgers: Transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy. Add your favorite toppings.

Quick Tip!

For extra juicy turkey burgers, don’t overmix the ingredients, and let the patties rest for a few minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape!

Storage and Reheating 

  • Cooked turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For extended storage, wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating Instructions:
    • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a slight drizzle of olive oil. Cook the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side until thoroughly warmed.
    • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
    • Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to avoid overcooking.
    • Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to achieve a crispy texture, flipping halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair your turkey burgers with grilled vegetables and eggplant from my Mediterranean-inspired meal plans. For extra flavor, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
  • Serve alongside your simple cucumber salad with dill or a mediterranean tomato salad. The light and tangy flavors balance the burger perfectly.
  • For a low-carb option, skip the bun and wrap your turkey burger in crisp lettuce leaves. Add a dollop of homemade Greek yogurt tzatziki sauce for a creamy touch.
  • Use a slice of homemade whole-wheat bread or pita as a base for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Top with arugula, tomato slices, and avocado.
  • Pair the burgers with baked sweet potato wedges or sweet potato fries seasoned with paprika and garlic powder. They make a tremendous clean-eating alternative to regular fries.
Cast Iron Turkey Burgers
Nena’s Wellness Corner

Wrapping Up

These cast-iron easy turkey burgers are a simple, healthy, and versatile recipe that perfectly complements a clean-eating lifestyle. With wholesome ingredients and easy substitutions, they’re customizable to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Pair them with fresh veggies, salads, or other nutritious sides for a complete meal. Plus, they’re easy to store and reheat, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Try them out and enjoy a delicious, tummy-friendly alternative to traditional burgers!

Want more from my healthy dinner collection that the whole family will love? Try my popular chicken risotto recipe—you’ll love it!

​I’d love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you try. If this was your tonight’s meal, don’t be shy; share your thoughts in the comments below!

Cast Iron Turkey Burger served on a bun with potatoes
Nena’s Wellness Corner
Cast Iron Turkey Burgers
Print Recipe
5 from 2 votes

Cast-Iron Turkey Burgers

This healthy cast-iron turkey burger is perfect for busy days when you want a quick, wholesome meal. Pair it with grilled veggies for a simple, nutritious dinner in no time! This recipe is foolproof and excellent for busy weeknights.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Keyword: Easy healthy turkey burger recipe, Homemade turkey burger, Turkey burger recipe, Turkey burgers
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 228kcal
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Video

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion small
  • 1/4 Cup bread crumbs plain
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dill
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture:

  • In a large bowl, combine turkey, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, oregano, and dill. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Do not overmix the meat mixture, which can make the burgers dense.

Form the Turkey Patties:

  • Divide the turkey mixture into 4-6 equal portions. I like making smaller patties, so I ended up with 6. Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.

Heat the Skillet:

  • Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the skillet to heat up for about 2 minutes.

Cook the Burgers:

  • Place the patties in the hot cast-iron skillet. Cook on the first side without moving them for 5-6 minutes to develop a nice crust.
  • Flip the patties gently and cook on the second side for 5-7 minutes, or use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature until it reaches 165°F (74°C). You want to achieve a nice golden brown color.

Rest the Burgers:

  • Transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy.
  • Add your favorite toppings

Notes

  • The nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on the specific ingredients used. 
  • Substitutions
    • Ground Turkey: Swap it with ground chicken for a similar lean protein option with comparable flavor and texture.
    • Onion: Use shallots for a milder, slightly sweeter flavor or green onions for a lighter, fresh taste.
    • Olive Oil: Replace with avocado oil, another healthy option with a high smoke point.
    • Oregano and Dill: For a fresh herbal twist, try Italian seasoning, basil, thyme, or parsley. Add cumin or paprika for a smoky, slightly spicy flavor, or add any of your favorite seasonings. 
  • ​Storage and Reheating 
    • Cooked turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For extended storage, wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
    • Reheating Instructions:
      • Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a slight drizzle of olive oil. Cook the burgers for 3-4 minutes per side until thoroughly warmed.
      • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
      • Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to avoid overcooking.
      • Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to achieve a crispy texture, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 turkey patty | Calories: 228kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 62mg | Sodium: 399mg | Potassium: 393mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 35IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 1mg
Tried this recipe?Mention @nenaswellnesscorner or tag #nenaswellnesscorner!

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