Juicy Turkey Burgers (Low FODMAP Option)

These juicy turkey burgers are packed with flavor and easy to make on the stovetop or grill, making them perfect for a quick lunch or weeknight dinner. Tender, well-seasoned, and reliably juicy (yes, even with turkey), they're a great way to switch up your usual burger routine.

This turkey burger recipe includes a low FODMAP option and can also be adapted for gluten-free, Keto, and low carb needs depending on how you serve them. Pair with your favorite sides and toppings like homemade pickles, burger sauce, or crispy fries for a complete meal.

Make these turkey burgers ahead and refrigerate or freeze for an easy make ahead meal recipe to enjoy later!

Why You'll Love These Turkey Burgers

I may have never developed this recipe were it not for having extra ground turkey on hand. Meat is ridiculously expensive around here, so we buy it in bulk whenever possible. I wanted to try another recipe using ground turkey, so we bought 4 pounds of it. Having 3 extra pounds left over, I needed to do something with it lest it take up space in my freezer forever.

We eat burgers a couple times a month year-round but a bit more frequently during the summer as burgers make for a great summer meal. Like most red meat eaters, I typically use beef as the protein for burgers, but as I had this extra turkey to use up, I thought why not write a turkey burger recipe and give turkey burgers a go?

We were really happy with the results. As turkey is typically a leaner meat than beef, I was afraid they might turn out dry, but there are things you can do to help the turkey retain its moisture when its cooked, which I have included in the recipe method. These burgers are super moist, and the turkey flavor really shines through.

Can You Grill These Turkey Burgers?

Yes! I was hesitant to test these turkey burgers on the grill as they do not hold together as well as a beef burger does, but as long as you freeze them for 15 minutes prior to grilling, they hold together and taste even more delicious grilled. While my initial turkey burgers recipe included only directions for the stovetop, now this recipe includes grilling instructions as well.

Kitchen Tools You'll Need

The equipment I use to make these juicy turkey burgers includes:

• Large bowl
• Large plate
• Freezer
• Stove top or outdoor grill (I use a natural gas grill)
• Large skillet (use a non-stick skillet to forgo cooking oil)
• Spatula for flipping
• Instant read thermometer

Ingredients & Tips for Juicy Turkey Burgers

Ingredients

I start this low FODMAP turkey burger recipe by adding the following ingredients to a large bowl:

• Turkey: I use extra lean ground turkey.
• Garlic-infused olive oil: adds some yummy garlicy flavor as well as some moisture to the burger without adding FODMAPs.
• Coconut aminos: gives the burger some umami flavor as well as enhances the turkey's flavor. If not eating Paleo or Whole30, one can also use Worcestershire sauce, tamari sauce or soy sauce.
• Dried chives: I use dried chives as the chive plant in my herb garden doesn't produce nearly enough and store bought chives tend to go bad really quickly. I always have dried chives on hand and just throw them into almost everything.
• Salt and pepper: further enhance the turkey's flavor.

Method

• Mix: Once you've added these to the bowl, mix with your hands until just combined.
• Form: Then, use your hands to form four equally sized patties that are about 3.5-inch in diameter and 1-inch thick.
• Freeze: Put the turkey burger patties on a plate and stick the plate in the freezer for 15 minutes. The purpose of this is twofold: it helps maintain the structural integrity of the burgers as well as keep the burgers juicy.
• Sear: Preheat a large skillet on medium heat. If you are using a good, non-stick pan, you can forgo adding the avocado oil; otherwise, add ½ tablespoon of avocado oil to the pan. Once the pan is hot, sear the patties on each side for 4-5 minutes or until the temperature reaches 165°F. Use an instant read thermometer to check the temperature of the thickest patty.
• Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately on a bun or bun alternative.

Best Bun Options for Turkey Burgers

Whether you're using a traditional bun or keeping things lighter, there are plenty of ways to serve these turkey burgers depending on your preferences.

If you're skipping a standard bun, here are some easy burger bun alternatives:

• Lettuce wraps – iceberg, green leaf, or butter lettuce work best
• Collard greens – sturdy and great for wrapping
• Grilled eggplant slices – soft, savory, and surprisingly satisfying
• Grilled pineapple slices – sweet and juicy (not low carb, but delicious)
• Sweet potato slices – roasted or grilled for a slightly heartier base (not low carb)
• Tomato slices – simple and fresh for a lighter option

If you're following a low FODMAP approach, stick to moderate portions for certain options like eggplant, pineapple, and sweet potato (check Monash University's Low FODMAP Diet App for the latest research).

Not avoiding FODMAPs? Grilled portobello mushrooms also make a great bun alternative and add a rich, savory flavor.

Topping Ideas for Turkey Burgers

The fun part: loading these up with your favorite toppings.

Whether you keep it classic or go all-in, here are some easy options to mix and match:

Sauces and Condiments

• Ketchup – use your favorite, or try homemade ketchup for a cleaner option
• Mayonnaise – avocado oil mayo works well for clean, rich flavor, although any mayo works
• Mustard – yellow, Dijon, or stone ground all work

If you're following a low FODMAP diet, look for versions made without garlic or onion, or use homemade alternatives when possible.

Great homemade options to try:

• Homemade Ketchup
• Burger Sauce (aka "special sauce")
• Homemade Ranch Dressing

Fresh and Crunchy Toppings

• Lettuce
• Tomato slices
• Red onion (optional, if tolerated)
• Pickles

For extra flavor without the guesswork, try homemade quick pickles—they're easy and give you full control over ingredients.

Extras (Optional but Recommended)

• Cheese
• Crispy bacon
• Avocado slices

Mix and match based on what you love (or what's actually in your fridge—no judgment here).