Introduction
Craving a burger that’s bursting with flavor and a bit different from the norm? Look no further than this Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Turkey Burger with Provolone! This isn’t your average ground beef patty – we’re talking lean, juicy turkey elevated with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the herbaceous depth of pesto. Topped with melted, creamy provolone cheese, this burger is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The Ultimate Turkey Burger Recipe
Why Choose Turkey?
- Lean Protein: Turkey is a fantastic source of protein and is lower in fat compared to beef.
- Versatile Flavor: Turkey readily absorbs flavors, making it the perfect canvas for bold ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and pesto.
- Healthier Option: Opting for turkey can be a smart choice for a lighter, more nutritious meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomato pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, sun-dried tomato pesto, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Gently mix until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers tough.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps prevent the burger from bulging during cooking.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the burgers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-Frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the burgers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Broiling: Place the burgers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Add the Provolone: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each burger. Allow the cheese to melt slightly.
- Assemble and Serve: Place the cheesy turkey burgers on your favorite buns. Add your desired toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, red onion, and avocado. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Turkey Burger
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the turkey mixture will result in dry, tough burgers. Mix gently until just combined.
- Use High-Quality Pesto: The flavor of the pesto is crucial to the success of this recipe. Opt for a high-quality store-bought pesto or make your own for the best results.
- Don’t Overcook: Turkey burgers tend to dry out easily. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Toast the Buns: Toasting the buns adds a nice texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Turkey Burger with Provolone is a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional beef burgers. It’s packed with flavor, relatively healthy, and easy to make. So, next time you’re craving a burger, give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you! This recipe is also easily adaptable; feel free to experiment with different toppings and cheeses to create your own unique burger masterpiece.
