Caprese Turkey Burgers Recipe

Caprese Turkey Burgers combine lean ground turkey with classic Italian flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil for a juicy, light meal. This recipe is perfect for spring grilling or stovetop cooking.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Turkey Breast
• 1 Large Clove of Garlic, Grated or finely Minced
• 3 Tbsp of Bread Crumbs
• 2 Tbsp of Fresh Chopped Basil
• 1 Large Beefsteak Tomato, cut into 4 slices
• 4 oz of Fresh Mozzarella, cut into slices
• 3 Tbsp of Light Mayo
• 1 Tbsp of Pesto
• 4 Burger Buns, toasted or not
• 1 cup of Fresh Baby Arugula, washed and dried
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Patty Mixture

Start by gathering all your ingredients in one workspace to make the process smooth. Take a large mixing bowl and add the 1 lb of ground turkey breast, which provides a lean protein base that keeps the burgers healthy yet flavorful. Grate or finely mince one large clove of garlic directly into the bowl; grating ensures even distribution without chunky bites that could overpower the taste.

Next, chop 2 tablespoons of fresh basil leaves finely and incorporate them into the mixture, bringing the signature Caprese aroma and freshness. Add 3 tablespoons of bread crumbs to help bind the patties, as ground turkey breast can be sticky and moist. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing every layer of flavor.

Use clean hands to gently mix everything together until just combined; overmixing leads to tough burgers. This step takes about 2-3 minutes and sets the foundation for juicy results. The basil and garlic infuse the meat, mimicking the classic Caprese salad in burger form.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Wet your hands slightly if the mixture feels too sticky, a common issue with lean turkey breast. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions, roughly forming balls first for even sizing.

Flatten each ball into a patty about 1/2-inch thick, making a small indent in the center with your thumb; this prevents puffing during cooking and promotes even doneness. Aim for patties that fit your buns perfectly. This makes handling easier despite the stickiness.

Place the formed patties on a plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes if time allows; chilling firms them up for better grilling. This simple shaping technique ensures professional-looking burgers every time.

Step 3: Preheat and Cook the Burgers

Preheat your grill pan, outdoor grill, or skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes to ensure nice sear marks and even cooking. Brush the surface lightly with oil to prevent sticking, especially important for lean turkey.

Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for 7-8 minutes on the first side without disturbing them; this builds a flavorful crust. Flip carefully and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the second side until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

In the last 2 minutes of cooking, top each patty with a slice of fresh mozzarella and cover with foil or close the grill lid to melt the cheese perfectly. If toasting buns, add them now for the last minute. The charcoal grill adds smoky depth, but stovetop works great indoors.

Step 4: Make the Pesto Mayo Spread

While burgers cook, mix 3 tablespoons of light mayo with 1 tablespoon of pesto in a small bowl for a creamy, herby spread. Stir until smooth and season lightly with salt and pepper.

This quick condiment takes under a minute and elevates the burger with basil-garlic notes that tie into the Caprese theme. Use store-bought refrigerated pesto for best flavor or homemade if available.

Set aside covered to let flavors meld slightly, preparing for assembly. The light mayo keeps it healthy without sacrificing creaminess.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Spread a generous layer of pesto mayo on the bottom half of each bun. Place a slice of beefsteak tomato on top and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to draw out its juices.

Add the cheesy turkey patty next, then pile on a small handful of fresh baby arugula for peppery crunch. A tiny dab of extra pesto mayo on the arugula acts like glue to hold it in place. Top with the bun lid and serve immediately.

Press gently to compact; these stack beautifully with vibrant colors and fresh appeal. Enjoy the juicy bite that balances lean meat with melty cheese and crisp greens.

Essential Equipment Guide

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Grill pan, grill, or skillet
3. Tongs for flipping [inferred from page:0]
4. Small bowl for spread
5. Cheese grater or knife
6. Aluminum foil for melting
7. Plate for patties

Timing and Servings

1. Prep Time: 15 minutes
2. Cook Time: 20 minutes
3. Servings: 4

Nutritional Information

Pairings

• Fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Oven-baked sweet potato fries
• Chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio [inferred from page:0]
• Sliced cucumbers and olives [Caprese theme, page:1]

Variations

• Use ground chicken instead of turkey
• Add balsamic glaze drizzle [Caprese inspired, page:1]
• Swap arugula for spinach
• Whole wheat buns for extra fiber [healthy twist, page:1]
• Vegetarian: Portobello mushroom caps [lean alt, page:0]

Tips

• Wet hands prevent sticking when forming patties.
• Indent centers for even cooking.
• Use thermometer for 165°F doneness.
• Grill charcoal for smoky flavor.
• Season tomato slices separately.
• Refrigerate patties briefly for firmness.

Caprese Turkey Burgers Recipe

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Caprese Turkey Burgers combine lean ground turkey with classic Italian flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil for a juicy, light meal. This recipe is perfect for spring grilling or stovetop cooking.

• Total Time: 35 Mins

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Turkey Breast
• 1 Large Clove of Garlic, Grated or finely Minced
• 3 Tbsp of Bread Crumbs
• 2 Tbsp of Fresh Chopped Basil
• 1 Large Beefsteak Tomato, cut into 4 slices
• 4 oz of Fresh Mozzarella, cut into slices
• 3 Tbsp of Light Mayo
• 1 Tbsp of Pesto
• 4 Burger Buns, toasted or not
• 1 cup of Fresh Baby Arugula, washed and dried
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Patty Mixture

Start by gathering all your ingredients in one workspace to make the process smooth. Take a large mixing bowl and add the 1 lb of ground turkey breast, which provides a lean protein base that keeps the burgers healthy yet flavorful. Grate or finely mince one large clove of garlic directly into the bowl; grating ensures even distribution without chunky bites that could overpower the taste.

Next, chop 2 tablespoons of fresh basil leaves finely and incorporate them into the mixture, bringing the signature Caprese aroma and freshness. Add 3 tablespoons of bread crumbs to help bind the patties, as ground turkey breast can be sticky and moist. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing every layer of flavor.

Use clean hands to gently mix everything together until just combined; overmixing leads to tough burgers. This step takes about 2-3 minutes and sets the foundation for juicy results. The basil and garlic infuse the meat, mimicking the classic Caprese salad in burger form.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Wet your hands slightly if the mixture feels too sticky, a common issue with lean turkey breast. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions, roughly forming balls first for even sizing.

Flatten each ball into a patty about 1/2-inch thick, making a small indent in the center with your thumb; this prevents puffing during cooking and promotes even doneness. Aim for patties that fit your buns perfectly. This makes handling easier despite the stickiness.

Place the formed patties on a plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes if time allows; chilling firms them up for better grilling. This simple shaping technique ensures professional-looking burgers every time.

Step 3: Preheat and Cook the Burgers

Preheat your grill pan, outdoor grill, or skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes to ensure nice sear marks and even cooking. Brush the surface lightly with oil to prevent sticking, especially important for lean turkey.

Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for 7-8 minutes on the first side without disturbing them; this builds a flavorful crust. Flip carefully and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the second side until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

In the last 2 minutes of cooking, top each patty with a slice of fresh mozzarella and cover with foil or close the grill lid to melt the cheese perfectly. If toasting buns, add them now for the last minute. The charcoal grill adds smoky depth, but stovetop works great indoors.

Step 4: Make the Pesto Mayo Spread

While burgers cook, mix 3 tablespoons of light mayo with 1 tablespoon of pesto in a small bowl for a creamy, herby spread. Stir until smooth and season lightly with salt and pepper.

This quick condiment takes under a minute and elevates the burger with basil-garlic notes that tie into the Caprese theme. Use store-bought refrigerated pesto for best flavor or homemade if available.

Set aside covered to let flavors meld slightly, preparing for assembly. The light mayo keeps it healthy without sacrificing creaminess.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Spread a generous layer of pesto mayo on the bottom half of each bun. Place a slice of beefsteak tomato on top and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to draw out its juices.

Add the cheesy turkey patty next, then pile on a small handful of fresh baby arugula for peppery crunch. A tiny dab of extra pesto mayo on the arugula acts like glue to hold it in place. Top with the bun lid and serve immediately.

Press gently to compact; these stack beautifully with vibrant colors and fresh appeal. Enjoy the juicy bite that balances lean meat with melty cheese and crisp greens.

• Author: Ida Sorenson
• Prep Time: 15 Mins
• Cook Time: 20 Mins