Let’s face it, burgers are a classic comfort food, but they often come with a side of guilt thanks to high fat and calorie counts. Enter the Air Fryer Turkey Burgers—your new best friend in the kitchen. Juicy, flavorful, and healthier than traditional beef burgers, these turkey patties are a game-changer.

Cooking them in an air fryer ensures a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or need a quick family dinner, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. For a quick and easy protein option, consider trying this Instant Pot Whole Chicken.

Why Air Fryer Turkey Burgers?
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, making it easier to create restaurant-quality meals with less oil and mess. These burgers take just minutes to cook, and the air fryer locks in the juices, ensuring every bite is as satisfying as the last. Plus, they’re versatile—perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or even a quick lunch. Pair them with a refreshing side like these Easy Mediterranean Cucumber Bites for a balanced meal.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from the essential ingredients to pro tips for avoiding dryness, and even some fun variations to customize your burgers. By the end, you’ll have a foolproof recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious.

What Are Air Fryer Turkey Burgers?

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, made using lean ground turkey and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Unlike stovetop or grill cooking, the air fryer ensures even heat distribution, resulting in a crispy outside and juicy inside.

How They Differ From Traditional Burgers

• Health Benefits: Turkey burgers are lower in fat and calories compared to beef burgers, making them a great choice for those watching their intake.
• Cooking Method: The air fryer eliminates the need for excess oil, making these burgers even healthier while keeping them flavorful.
• Texture: The circulating air in the fryer crisps the outside without drying out the inside—a common issue when cooking turkey burgers on a grill.

Benefits of Cooking Turkey Burgers in an Air Fryer

1. Quick Cooking: Most turkey burgers are ready in under 15 minutes.
2. Minimal Cleanup: No greasy pans or grills to scrub—just a quick rinse of the air fryer basket.
3. Even Cooking: The air fryer ensures every patty is cooked evenly, reducing the risk of overcooking or leaving the center underdone.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect turkey burger:

Essential Ingredients

• Ground Turkey: Opt for 93% lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and adds a subtle texture.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the patties from falling apart.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor.
• Onion Powder: Enhances the taste without overpowering the turkey.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the patties perfectly.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

• Worcestershire Sauce: For a touch of umami.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby note.
• Paprika or Cayenne Pepper: For a hint of smokiness or spice.
• Cheese: Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan directly into the patties for extra indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own juicy Air Fryer Turkey Burgers:

1. Preparing the Turkey Patty Mixture

• In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings.
• Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.

2. Shaping the Patties

• Divide the mixture into 4–6 equal portions, depending on the desired burger size.
• Shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick, and use your thumb to create a slight indent in the center. This prevents the patties from puffing up during cooking.

3. Cooking the Patties in the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the patties in a single layer, leaving space between them for air circulation.
• Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tips for Perfect Turkey Burgers

Creating the ultimate Air Fryer Turkey Burgers requires a few simple tricks. Here’s how to ensure your patties are juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection:

Avoiding Dryness

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the ingredients too much can result in tough, dry burgers. Handle the meat gently to maintain its texture.
• Use an Egg and Breadcrumbs: These binders lock in moisture, preventing the patties from drying out during cooking.
• Add a Fat Source: If using extra-lean ground turkey, consider adding a teaspoon of olive oil or a small amount of grated cheese to the mixture.

Choosing the Right Fat Content

• 93% Lean Ground Turkey: This is the sweet spot for juicy burgers with less grease.
• 99% Lean Ground Turkey: Use sparingly or pair with moisture-enhancing ingredients like grated zucchini or diced onion.

Enhancing Flavor

• Season Generously: Ground turkey is mild in flavor, so don’t be shy with the seasonings.
• Layer Flavors: Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or Dijon mustard can add depth to the taste.

Serving Suggestions

A burger is only as good as its accompaniments! Here are some ideas to take your Air Fryer Turkey Burgers to the next level:

Classic Burger Toppings and Pairings

• Toppings: Add lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo.
• Buns: Use toasted brioche buns for a buttery flavor or whole-grain buns for a healthier option.

Healthy Side Dish Options

• Sweet Potato Fries: Air fry a batch alongside the burgers for a low-oil alternative to classic fries.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds the perfect contrast to the juicy burger.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are great options. For a hearty soup pairing, try this Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup.

How to Make It a Meal Prep Favorite

• Cook extra patties and freeze them for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Pair with a side salad and roasted veggies for a balanced, wholesome meal.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Turkey Burgers

• Add diced jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce to the patty mixture for a fiery kick.

Mediterranean-Style Turkey Burgers

• Incorporate crumbled feta, diced sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh oregano for a Greek-inspired twist.

Low-Carb Turkey Burger Wraps

• Skip the bun and serve your patty wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, topped with avocado and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.

Air Fryer Cooking Tips

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

• Nonstick Basket Care: Avoid using abrasive sponges that can damage the coating.
• Dealing With Grease: Line the bottom of your air fryer with parchment paper to catch drippings and simplify cleanup.
• Routine Cleaning: Wipe the inside of the air fryer with a damp cloth after every use to prevent grease buildup.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Turkey burgers are perfect for meal prep or saving for later. Here’s how to store and reheat them without losing flavor or texture:

How to Properly Store Cooked Turkey Burgers

• Refrigeration: Place the patties in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Best Methods for Reheating Without Drying Out

• In the Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes for a crisp exterior.
• On the Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a lid to trap moisture.
• In the Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals to avoid drying out.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the approximate breakdown per serving of Air Fryer Turkey Burgers (excluding bun and toppings):

• Calories: 200–250
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg

Adjust the recipe to suit your dietary needs by using gluten-free breadcrumbs, low-sodium seasonings, or adding extra vegetables for fiber.

FAQs About Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

How long do turkey burgers take in the air fryer?

Turkey burgers typically take 12–15 minutes to cook in the air fryer at 375°F, flipping halfway through.

What temperature do you cook burgers in the air fryer?

Burgers cook best at 375°F in the air fryer to ensure they are cooked evenly without burning.

What temperature do you cook turkey burgers at?

The internal temperature of turkey burgers should reach 165°F for safe consumption, as recommended by the USDA.

How long to keep turkey in the air fryer?

A full turkey burger patty requires 12–15 minutes in the air fryer. Adjust based on thickness.

Is air frying a turkey worth it?

Yes, air frying delivers a healthier, crispier result without the added oil, making it worth the effort.

What temperature to air fry turkey breast?

Turkey breast cooks well at 350°F for about 35–40 minutes, depending on its size.

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Juicy and flavorful Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these turkey patties are quick to prepare and ideal for lunch or dinner. Serve them with your favorite toppings and sides for a delicious meal the whole family will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4–6 portions and shape into patties, about ¾ inch thick.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange patties in a single layer with space between each.
5. Cook patties for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings and sides.

Notes

• For added flavor, mix 1 tbsp grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar into the turkey mixture.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
• Leftover patties can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 patty
• Calories: 200–250
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Air Fryer Turkey Burgers, healthy turkey burger recipe, quick air fryer recipes, turkey patties

There you have it—Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy option for any meal. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep solution, or a crowd-pleasing barbecue, these burgers deliver every time.

With their juicy interior, crispy exterior, and endless customization options, turkey burgers in the air fryer are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So, preheat that air fryer and get ready to enjoy a burger that’s as good for you as it is tasty.