Turkey Bean Burgers are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying option. Packed with protein from lean ground turkey and fiber-rich beans, these burgers are seasoned with a blend of spices that bring a burst of flavor to every bite. The beans add a wonderful texture and help keep the patties moist and tender. Whether grilled or pan-fried, these Turkey Bean Burgers are perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend barbecue, and they pair wonderfully with your favorite burger toppings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, cheese, ketchup, mustard, or mayo
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bean Mixture: In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Mix the Ingredients: Add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed beans. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly to help form the patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the patties are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Assemble the Burgers: Lightly toast the burger buns if desired. Place a turkey bean patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add your choice of toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, cheese, ketchup, mustard, or mayo.
- Serve: Place the top bun on each burger and serve immediately. These Turkey Bean Burgers are perfect alongside a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or a classic side of chips.
Enjoy these hearty and flavorful burgers, knowing you’re indulging in a meal that’s as healthy as it is tasty!
