Turkey White Bean Burgers
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers, look no further! Turkey White Bean Burgers are a fantastic way to incorporate protein-packed turkey and nutrient-rich beans into your diet, all while enjoying a tasty meal. These burgers are not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, they are sure to please both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Let’s dive into why you’ll love these burgers and how to make them!
Reasons to Love Turkey White Bean Burgers
Turkey White Bean Burgers are a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Here are just a few reasons to love them:
- High in Protein: Ground turkey and white beans provide a great source of protein, making these burgers filling and satisfying.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber and vitamins, these burgers support overall health while tantalizing your taste buds.
- Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up these tasty burgers in no time.
- Versatile: Customize your toppings and sides to make them your own, whether you prefer classic lettuce and tomato or something a bit more adventurous.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later.
What Goes In
To create these delightful Turkey White Bean Burgers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup canned small white beans (cannellini are fine too), rinsed and drained
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons plain dried bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- 1 pound ground turkey
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 eight-inch thick slices good country-style bread (like ciabatta), toasted
Before You Start: Equipment
Before you jump into making your Turkey White Bean Burgers, gather the necessary equipment:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
- Skillet or Grill: To cook the burgers to perfection.
- Spoon or Spatula: For mixing and flipping your burgers.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you have the right amounts of each ingredient.
- Cooking Thermometer: Optional, but useful to check internal temperature.
From Start to Finish: Turkey White Bean Burgers
Making Turkey White Bean Burgers is simple! Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing and draining the canned small white beans. This step is essential to remove excess sodium and enhance the flavor of your burgers.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed beans, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, and chopped chives. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the beans slightly while mixing all the ingredients together.
Step 3: Incorporate the Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the mixture. Season it with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined; avoid over-mixing as this can make the burgers tough.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Divide the turkey and bean mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty, about 1-inch thick.
Step 5: Cook the Burgers
Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the burger patties. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are nicely browned.
Step 6: Toast the Bread
While the burgers are cooking, toast the slices of country-style bread until golden brown. This will add a delightful crunch and flavor to your meal.
Step 7: Assemble the Burgers
Once the patties are cooked, place each one on a slice of toasted bread. Top with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or any condiments you desire. Finish with another slice of bread on top.
What to Use Instead
If you’re looking for alternatives or substitutes for any ingredient, here’s a list:
- Ground Turkey: You can use ground chicken or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
- White Beans: If you don’t have small white beans, great northern beans or even chickpeas can work in a pinch.
- Bread Crumbs: Use crushed crackers or oats if you need a gluten-free option.
- Chives: Fresh parsley or green onions can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
Author’s Commentary
As a food enthusiast, I love experimenting with different ingredients to create healthy, delicious meals. Turkey White Bean Burgers are one of my go-to recipes because they’re not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can tweak the spices or toppings according to your mood or dietary needs. Plus, these burgers are a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet. I hope you enjoy making and eating them as much as I do!
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), here are some tips for storing and reheating your Turkey White Bean Burgers:
- Cooling: Let the burgers cool completely before storing them.
- Storing: Place the burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Rewarming: Reheat burgers in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick option.
Turkey White Bean Burgers FAQs
Can I grill these burgers instead of frying them?
Absolutely! These burgers can be grilled on medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side, just like in the skillet. Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Are Turkey White Bean Burgers suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These burgers are perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
What toppings go well with Turkey White Bean Burgers?
Some great toppings include fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, avocado, pickles, or a zingy slaw. You can also add your favorite sauces, like ketchup, mustard, or a homemade garlic aioli.
How do I know when the burgers are done cooking?
The best way to check if the burgers are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure there’s no pink in the middle.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you love Turkey White Bean Burgers, you might also enjoy these quick and easy weeknight meals:
That’s a Wrap
Turkey White Bean Burgers are not just a meal; they are an experience. The combination of savory turkey and creamy beans creates a burger that is both hearty and nutritious. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these burgers are sure to impress. Every bite is a reminder that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying. So fire up that skillet or grill, and enjoy a delightful meal that is packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients. Happy cooking!
Turkey White Bean Burgers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing and draining the canned small white beans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed beans, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, and chopped chives. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the beans slightly while mixing all the ingredients together.
- Add the ground turkey to the mixture. Season it with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined.
- Divide the turkey and bean mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty, about 1-inch thick.
- Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the burger patties. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are nicely browned.
- While the burgers are cooking, toast the slices of country-style bread until golden brown.
- Once the patties are cooked, place each one on a slice of toasted bread. Top with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, or any condiments you desire. Finish with another slice of bread on top.
Notes
- These burgers are freezer-friendly; make a batch and store for later.
- Use ground chicken or a plant-based alternative for a different twist.
- Feel free to customize toppings to suit your preferences.
