Barefoot Contessa’s Turkey Burger Recipe — a Step-by-Step Guide to Delicious, Healthy Burgers

In the realm of healthy and delicious home cooking, the Barefoot Contessa Turkey Burger recipe stands out as a testament to Ina Garten's culinary genius. We delve into the history of this iconic dish, provide a detailed step-by-step guide to crafting these sumptuous burgers, and conclude with expert tips to ensure your turkey burgers are as juicy and flavorful as possible.

Ina Garten, the culinary powerhouse behind the Barefoot Contessa brand, has long been synonymous with recipes that marry simplicity with sophistication. Garten, celebrated for her effortless elegance and approachable recipes, has redefined comfort food with a focus on fresh ingredients and flavors.

Her Barefoot Contessa Turkey Burger recipe, in particular, offers a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers without sacrificing taste.

A turkey burger | Source: Shutterstock

Originating from Garten's knack for creating dishes that evoke the warmth and joy of home cooking, this recipe features lean ground turkey at its core, seasoned to perfection, and capable of invoking memories of summer barbecues and cozy family dinners alike.

Below is an in-depth guideline that features all the ingredients and instructions for the Barefoot Contessa Turkey Burger recipe that you need to craft the delectable dish. From how to prepare your turkey patty mixture to alternative serving suggestions; we teach you everything there is to know about what it takes to make these popular burgers.

Barefoot Contessa's Turkey Burger Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ pounds lean ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 lightly beaten egg
• vegetable cooking oil
• burger buns

Raw ground turkey | Source: Shutterstock

For Toppings:

• sliced tomatoes
• leafy greens
• cucumbers
• roasted red peppers
• red onion
• barbecue sauce
• olive tapenade
• mustard

Two turkey burgers | Source: Shutterstock

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mixture: Start by combining the egg, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Gently mix in the ground turkey to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to tough burgers.

2. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions, shaping each into a ½-inch thick patty. If you plan to grill the burgers, freeze the patties for about 30 minutes beforehand to help them hold their shape.

3. Cook to Perfection: You can cook these versatile burgers in several ways:

• Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the patties for about 6 minutes per side.
• Skillet: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the burgers for 5-6 minutes on each side, covering initially to ensure thorough cooking.
• Oven: Bake at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Grill each turkey patty for 6 minutes on each side. | Source: Shutterstock

Serving Suggestions:

These burgers are a canvas for your culinary creativity. Try them with traditional toppings or experiment with options like a Turkey Club or California-style burger. Elevate your burger experience further by incorporating unique toppings such as a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist or a slice of avocado for added creaminess and nutrition.

Pairing your burger with a side of sweet potato fries or a vibrant, fresh salad can balance the meal, making it both satisfying and wholesome.

A turkey burger served with salad | Source: Shutterstock

Crafting the perfect turkey burger requires more than just substituting turkey for beef. The secret to a moist, flavorful patty lies in the ingredients and cooking method. A breadcrumb-yogurt mixture, seasoned with Worcestershire and soy sauce, can be a game-changer, as it helps retain the burger's juiciness.

Remember, whether you're searing on the stove or grilling outdoors, avoiding excessive handling will keep your burgers tender and delicious.

With these tips and the Barefoot Contessa's turkey recipe, you're well on your way to making the juiciest turkey burgers you've ever tasted. Read this other article about how to craft the perfect patties using a DIY burger press.