BLT Turkey Burgers are both a comfort food and a lighter alternative to beef, and I’m convinced they’re the best of both worlds. I love how the smoky bacon, juicy turkey, and fresh lettuce and tomato come together in every bite. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, these burgers are fast to make and pack tons of flavor. But the real secret? It’s all in how you bring the classic BLT twist to life.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These BLT Turkey Burgers are a delicious twist on a classic, combining juicy turkey with crisp bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes.
- Juicy and flavorful turkey patties that are easy to make and perfect for grilling.
- The classic BLT combo adds a satisfying crunch and freshness to every bite.
- A healthier alternative to beef burgers without sacrificing taste or indulgence.
Recipe
BLT Turkey Burgers offer a healthier twist on the classic BLT sandwich, combining lean ground turkey with the familiar flavors of bacon, lettuce, and tomato. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, delivering a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, crumbled bacon, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly if desired.
- Assemble the burgers by placing a patty on each bun, then topping with lettuce, tomato slices, and mayonnaise if using. Serve immediately.
Notes:
For extra flavor, add a slice of cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking. These burgers can also be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Serving:
4 servings
Calories:
Approximately 320 calories per serving
Cuisine:
American
Equipment
To make BLT Turkey Burgers, having the right tools guarantees a smooth cooking process. Essential equipment includes a grill, skillet, or stovetop for cooking the burgers, and basic kitchen utensils.
- Grill or skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Plate or tray for assembly
- Optional: food thermometer to check doneness
Nutrition
These BLT Turkey Burgers are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers while still offering great taste and nutrition. Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, they make a satisfying meal.
- High in lean protein from turkey.
- Low in saturated fat compared to beef burgers.
- Rich in vitamins from lettuce and tomatoes.
- Provides healthy fats from avocado and bacon.
- A good source of fiber due to whole-grain buns.
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my BLT turkey burgers with crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. A tangy dipping sauce, like garlic aioli, adds extra flavor, while roasted veggies or a side of coleslaw keep things interesting. Don’t forget a cold lemonade or iced tea to wash it all down! For a fun twist, consider serving your burgers with a side of nutrient-rich meal inspired by the popular Dorito Taco Salad.
Side Dishes
Pairing a BLT turkey burger with the right side dish can take your meal from good to great. I love exploring side dish ideas that complement its flavors, like crispy sweet potato fries or grilled corn on the cob. Flavor pairings matter, so I often add a tangy coleslaw or roasted veggies for balance. These choices make the meal feel complete, satisfying, and full of variety.
Salad Options
When I’m serving BLT turkey burgers, a fresh salad is my go-to for keeping things light and balanced. I love experimenting with salad dressings—tangy balsamic or creamy ranch—to complement the burger’s flavors. For toppings, I add crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado for extra texture. A handful of nuts or seeds gives it a satisfying crunch. It’s simple, customizable, and perfect for any meal.
Dipping Sauces
To take your BLT turkey burgers to the next level, dipping sauces are a game-changer. I love experimenting with sauce variations, like creamy garlic aioli or a tangy chipotle mayo, to add flavor enhancements that make every bite exciting. Mixing in fresh herbs, like basil or cilantro, can also elevate your sauce game. Let your creativity run wild—these little dips can transform your meal into something unforgettable!
Vegetable Pairings
There’s nothing like a juicy BLT turkey burger, but adding the right veggies can make the meal even better. I love experimenting with vegetable combinations—think crispy zucchini fries, roasted sweet potato wedges, or a tangy cucumber salad. These pairings elevate the flavor profiles, offering a mix of textures and tastes that keep every bite exciting. It’s all about freedom to create a meal that truly satisfies.
Beverage Choices
A great burger deserves a drink that complements its flavors, and I’ve found that the right beverage can really tie the meal together. For beer pairings, I love a crisp lager or pale ale—they balance the smoky bacon and tangy mayo perfectly. If you’re skipping alcohol, soda alternatives like sparkling water with a splash of citrus or a zesty ginger ale are invigorating choices. Cheers to a tasty combo!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Instead of Turkey?
I’d absolutely use chicken instead of turkey if I wanted a milder chicken flavor while keeping the burger texture similar. It’s my kitchen, so I can swap ingredients to suit my taste and preferences freely.
How Do I Prevent the Burgers From Drying Out?
I’ve learned that 80% of burger dryness comes from overcooking. To boost moisture retention, I’ll add grated onion or a splash of broth to the mix. I’ll also pile on juicy burger toppings like avocado or pickles.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
I can make these burgers ahead of time, but I’ll use make ahead tips to keep them juicy. I’ll store uncooked patties with parchment paper between layers for burger storage, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.
Are These Burgers Gluten-Free?
I’m not sure if these burgers are gluten-free, but I’d swap the bun for gluten-free alternatives like lettuce wraps or gluten-free bread. I’d also load them with healthy toppings to keep them fresh and satisfying.
Can I Grill These Burgers Instead of Pan-Frying?
I’d absolutely grill ’em—just keep your grilling tips simple. Preheat to medium-high, cook about 6 minutes per side, and aim for 165°F inside. That’s the best cooking temperatures for juicy, free-from-constraint flavor. Perfect when you crave control & fire.
