How Long to Cook Turkey Burgers on Pellet Grill?
Smoked Turkey Burgers
Turkey Burgers: A Healthy and Easy-to-Make Alternative
Opting for smoked turkey burgers can be a delightful change from the usual beef offerings at your summer BBQ. These burgers are not only a healthy alternative, but they also bring a rich, smoky flavor that elevates them beyond the typical burger fare.
The process is quite easy and the recipe can be a fun, filling main course at any picnic or BBQ. What makes these turkey burgers a top favorite is their versatility in toppings. From pickles and onions to ketchup, mustard, and cheese, you can customize them to taste just as you like.
Crafting Smoked Turkey Burgers: An Impressive Recipe for All
Smoking turkey burgers on a Traeger or any smoker during warm weather brings out an impressive flavor that even the most picky eaters will appreciate. This leaner option is not only delicious but also easy to make.
Pair these burgers with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal. Whether it’s a casual family gathering or a special event, smoked turkey burgers offer a unique taste experience that’s both healthy and easy to prepare. The recipe usually serves several, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of ground turkey
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Hamburger buns
How To Make Smoked Burgers
- Prepare your smoker or Traeger grill by ensuring it is clean and ready to use. If unsure what wood to use, stick with Traeger’s signature blend for a consistent flavor.
- Combine the following seasonings in a bowl: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Season the ground turkey thoroughly with the mixed seasonings.
- Form the seasoned turkey into patties.
- Preheat the smoker or grill to the desired temperature, typically around 225°F (107°C), and let it warm up for about 15 minutes.
- Place the burgers on the grates of the grill.
- Cook the burgers for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the burgers from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes.
- While the burgers are resting, prepare your toppings and build your burgers with your preferred condiments and enjoy.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions for Turkey Burgers
Mediterranean Twist
Incorporate chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and dried oregano into your ground turkey for a Greek-inspired flavor that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your grill.
Spicy Kick
Add a spicy twist by mixing diced jalapeños and chipotle peppers into the turkey mixture. This version is perfect for those who love a little heat with their meal.
Mushroom Lovers
Sautéed mushrooms with garlic and thyme mixed into the turkey patties offer an earthy flavor that mushroom enthusiasts will appreciate.
Asian Fusion
Incorporate soy sauce, grated ginger, and chopped scallions into the turkey mixture for an Asian-inspired twist that’s both unique and flavorful.
Cheese Lover’s Delight
Place a slice of your favorite cheese—be it cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack—on top of the burger during the last few minutes of smoking for a gooey, melty addition.
Pesto Paradise
Spread a spoonful of basil pesto on the burger bun for a burst of fresh flavor that complements the smoked turkey perfectly.
Gluten-Free Option
For those avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free hamburger buns to enjoy these delicious burgers without compromise.
Veggie Boost
Add grated zucchini, carrots, and spinach to the turkey mixture to increase the moisture and nutritional value, making the meat go further and adding a healthy twist.
BBQ Fusion
Baste the burgers with barbecue sauce while grilling for a tangy, sweet flavor combination that’s irresistibly mouthwatering.
Lettuce Wraps
Serve your smoked turkey patties wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of traditional buns for a low-carb option that’s light yet satisfying.
Storage Tips
SERVE and STORE
After removing your smoked turkey burgers from the smoker, it’s essential to let the burgers rest for a few minutes before prepping your toppings. To keep these burgers fresh, they can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
FREEZE for Longevity
For longer storage, properly seal the burgers in a freezer bag; they’ll remain fresh for up to two months when frozen.
REHEAT with Ease
To reheat your smoked turkey burgers, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then warm them in a skillet or microwave for best results.
How long to cook turkey burgers on a grill pan?
To perfectly cook turkey burgers on a grill pan, start by grating a shallot using a medium plane grater into a large bowl, capturing all the juice for added flavor. Add turkey, mayonnaise, steak sauce, and parsley, then mix gently with your hands until fully incorporated.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form them into patties. Season the tops with garlic salt and pepper. Spray the skillet with cooking spray and set over medium-high heat.
Once hot, place the burgers, seasoned sides down, and apply seasoning to the opposite sides. Allow them to cook until they are nicely browned, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Flip them halfway through to ensure they are no longer pink in the middle.
Get Kids Involved in Cooking
Ages 2-3
Teach your littlest cooks the names of various small utensils and tools they can safely grab.
Ages 4-5
At this age, kids often enjoy mixing seasonings in a small bowl and can help place the finished patties on burger buns and add toppings.
Ages 6-8
This group can prepare and season patties. Older kids can also begin to check the temperature of the meat on the grill and observe the cooking process.
Ages 9-11
Supervise as they prepare the recipe and show them how to use the grill or smoker. It’s helpful to read the recipe twice before beginning to ensure understanding.
Ages 12+
Let them prepare the entire recipe unsupervised, but stay in the corner ready to jump in if needed and do a happy dance when they succeed.
Budget Tips for Making Turkey Burgers
When making turkey burgers, buying ground turkey in bulk can significantly save money as larger quantities are often cheaper per pound. Always look for sales and deals at your local grocery store and stock up.
For seasoning, rely on pantry staples instead of purchasing expensive seasoning blends to flavor your burgers effectively. If there are leftovers, don’t hesitate to freeze the leftover turkey burgers for a quick and easy meal on a short notice or tight budget.
Additionally, adding grated vegetables like zucchini and carrots to the turkey burger mixture can stretch the meat further, adding extra nutrition to your meal without breaking the bank.
Conclusion:
Cooking turkey burgers on a pellet grill involves preheating the grill to a steady 350°F and grilling the burgers directly over medium heat. By keeping the lid closed as much as possible and flipping the burgers halfway through, you can ensure they cook evenly, typically requiring about 15-20 minutes to reach the desired doneness.
This method harnesses the pellet grill’s ability to maintain a consistent temperature, resulting in juicy, well-cooked turkey burgers that are perfect for any backyard BBQ or family dinner.
People also ask
How Long to Cook Burgers on a Pellet Grill?
To achieve the perfect medium-rare to medium doneness, cook burgers on a pellet grill at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your patties.
Remember to flip the burgers halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on both sides.
How Long to Smoke Turkey Burgers at 250?
Start by mixing your ground turkey with your preferred seasonings and form the mixture into meat patties. Preheat your smoker to a temperature of 225-250°F and smoke the burgers for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F or higher. The higher the temperature, the faster they will cook.
How Long to Grill Turkey Burgers at 350?
To grill turkey burgers at an ideal 350 degrees, first preheat your grill for direct cooking over medium heat. In a medium bowl, gently combine all your ingredients to avoid compacting the meat, which can make your burgers tough.
Grill the turkey burgers for about 15-20 minutes on direct medium heat, with the lid closed as much as possible to maintain an even temperature. Turning the burgers halfway through the cooking ensures they cook evenly on both sides and reach the perfect doneness without being overcooked.
What Temperature Do You Cook Turkey Burgers?
When preparing turkey burgers in an oven, first preheat it to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Form your turkey mixture into patties and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
Bake in your preheated oven until the burgers are no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, usually taking about 20-25 minutes. This method ensures your turkey burgers are juicy and cooked thoroughly.
