If you love juicy, flavorful burgers but want something a little different from the usual beef, this Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender ground turkey combined with the rich tang of goat cheese and the deep, sweet punch of sun-dried tomatoes—all packed into a perfectly seasoned, juicy patty. It’s a dish that feels both fresh and indulgent, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers where you want to impress without fuss. Every bite bursts with layers of texture and taste that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. From the light crunch of panko crumbs to the bold flavor of sun-dried tomatoes, these staples elevate the burger without overshadowing the turkey’s natural taste.
- ¾ cup Panko Crumbs: Provides a light, airy texture that holds the patties together without making them dense.
- 1 egg (beaten): Acts as a binder, ensuring the patties hold their shape on the grill.
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey: The lean protein base that makes this burger both healthy and hearty.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds a lovely herbal hint that brings out the Mediterranean vibe of the sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the burger, making each bite pop.
- 1 tsp pepper: Offers just the right amount of subtle heat and depth.
- ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): Adds a sweet, tangy burst that contrasts beautifully with the mild turkey.
- 6 ounces goat cheese (softened): The creamy topping that melts slightly over the warm patties for a luscious finish.
How to Make Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients so you can work efficiently. In a large bowl, mix the panko crumbs, beaten egg, ground turkey, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to combine everything gently; you want everything evenly distributed but avoid overmixing, which can make the burgers tough.
Step 2: Form and Chill the Patties
Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape them into patties. This step is crucial because evenly sized patties will cook at the same rate, ensuring juicy results. Pop the patties into the fridge for at least an hour—that chilling time helps them firm up so they won’t fall apart during cooking.
Step 3: Grill the Burgers
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’re looking for a nice golden crust without drying out the turkey inside. If you don’t have a grill, a cast-iron skillet works just as well to give that beautiful sear.
Step 4: Let the Burgers Rest
Once the patties are cooked through, transfer them to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Letting the burgers rest for about 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Add the Creamy Goat Cheese
Finally, top each warm burger with a generous spread of softened goat cheese. The slight warmth from the patty will soften the cheese just enough to create a creamy, tangy layer without melting into a mess. This finishing touch is what truly makes this Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe unforgettable.
How to Serve Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh arugula or baby spinach can add a peppery crunch that balances the richness of the goat cheese. Thinly sliced red onions or a few fresh basil leaves also complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. A drizzle of balsamic glaze is an unexpected but delightful touch that ties all the flavors together.
Side Dishes
This burger pairs wonderfully with crispy sweet potato fries or a light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. For a green side, a crisp cucumber and tomato salad adds refreshing contrast that’s perfect alongside the warm, savory flavors of the burger.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the turkey burgers open-faced on toasted ciabatta or whole grain buns to really showcase that gorgeous goat cheese topping. You can also create a lettuce wrap version for a low-carb option that’s just as satisfying. Don’t forget to add some pickled vegetables on the side for a bright, tangy counterpoint.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover turkey burgers, they’ll keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing to preserve their texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked patties by laying them flat on a baking sheet and freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy the Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe anytime without extra prep. Frozen patties will last up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the burgers in a skillet over medium heat or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid the microwave as it can dry out the turkey. Add fresh goat cheese just before serving to keep that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?
Yes, but you’ll want to rehydrate dried sun-dried tomatoes in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain well before chopping. The oil-packed version adds extra moisture and flavor, so you might want to add a small drizzle of olive oil to the mix if using the dried variety.
Is ground turkey a healthy choice for burgers?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is leaner than beef and provides a great source of protein with less saturated fat, making it a heart-friendly option that still delivers fantastic flavor when cooked thoughtfully.
Can I replace goat cheese with another cheese?
You can try feta or cream cheese as alternatives, but goat cheese brings a unique tangy creaminess that really complements the sun-dried tomatoes and turkey. Each cheese will change the flavor profile slightly, so experiment to find your favorite!
How long should I cook turkey burgers to ensure they’re safe?
Turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety. Using a meat thermometer is a reliable way to check doneness without overcooking.
Can I bake these burgers instead of grilling?
Definitely! Bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked. Baking is a great option if grilling isn’t available.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of fresh ground turkey, rich goat cheese, and flavorful sun-dried tomatoes, and this Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe brings all those elements together perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a healthier burger alternative or just want to try something new, this recipe hits all the right notes. I can’t wait for you to give it a go and share it with your favorite people—it’s definitely one that will become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Print
Turkey Burger with Goat Cheese and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful turkey burger recipe featuring juicy ground turkey mixed with sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasonings, grilled to perfection and topped with creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal with a Mediterranean twist.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Burger Patties
- ¾ cup Panko crumbs
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- ½ cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
For the Topping
- 6 ounces goat cheese (softened)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Panko crumbs, beaten egg, ground turkey, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated to ensure flavor and binding.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 even patties. Place the patties in the refrigerator and chill for at least one hour. This helps the patties set, making them easier to handle and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.
- Grill Patties: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the turkey patties on the grill, cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This timing ensures the patties are cooked through while maintaining juiciness.
- Rest Patties: Remove the cooked turkey burgers from the grill and tent them loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender burger.
- Add Goat Cheese: Spread a generous layer of softened goat cheese on top of each burger. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, tangy contrast to the savory turkey patties.
Notes
- Chilling the patties before grilling helps them hold together better and enhances flavor melding.
- You can substitute Italian seasoning with a blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme if desired.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the patties on a stovetop grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Serve the turkey burgers on whole-grain buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a complete meal.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the turkey burgers reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
