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Air Fryer Turkey Burgers - Juicy, Quick, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Ground turkey, 93% lean (1 pound) – lean enough to be light, with enough fat to stay juicy
  • Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup) – plain or panko
  • Egg (1 large) – helps bind
  • Yellow onion (2 tablespoons finely grated or minced)
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced) or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon)
  • Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon)
  • Kosher salt (1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Paprika (1/2 teaspoon) – smoked or sweet
  • Olive oil or avocado oil spray – for the basket and patties
  • Buns – brioche, whole wheat, or your favorite
  • Toppings – lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles
  • Condiments – mayo, ketchup, mustard, or special sauce
  • Optional add-ins – chopped parsley, shredded cheddar, or a pinch of chili flakes

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Let it run for about 3 minutes so the basket is hot. A preheated basket helps the patties sear and release easily.
  2. Mix the burger base. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, grated onion, garlic, Worcestershire, Dijon, salt, pepper, and paprika. Use a fork or your hands to gently mix until just combined.
  3. Form the patties. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Lightly oil your hands and shape into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Press a small dimple in the center of each patty to prevent doming as they cook.
  4. Oil and arrange. Lightly spray the air fryer basket and the tops of the patties with oil. Place patties in the basket in a single layer, not touching. Cook in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
  5. Air fry the first side. Cook for 6–7 minutes. Don’t move them too early; letting the crust set helps with flipping.
  6. Flip and finish. Flip each patty and cook another 5–7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Add cheese during the last minute if using.
  7. Toast the buns (optional). Remove the patties and lightly toast buns in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes.
  8. Build and serve. Layer with your favorite toppings and condiments. Eat right away while the burgers are juicy and hot.