Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, dry ranch seasoning mix, 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix Gently: Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a 3/4-inch thick patty. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this prevents the burgers from puffing up in the middle during cooking.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. You want the pan hot enough to create a nice sear.
- Cook the Burgers: Carefully place the turkey patties into the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the BBQ Ranch Turkey Burgers should reach 165°F (74°C). If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt beautifully.
- Rest and Assemble: Remove the cooked burgers from the skillet and let them rest for a minute or two. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more succulent burger.
- Serve: Assemble your BBQ Ranch Turkey Burgers on your favorite buns with extra BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and your desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, red onion, and pickles. Enjoy immediately!
Notes
Do Not Overmix: This is the most crucial tip for any ground meat patty. Overmixing compresses the meat fibers, resulting in a dense, dry, and rubbery burger. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
The Thumbprint Trick: Press a shallow indentation in the center of each patty. This prevents the burger from bulging in the middle as it cooks, ensuring even thickness and cooking.
Medium Heat is Key: Cooking turkey burgers over medium heat allows them to cook through without burning the exterior.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The safest way to ensure your turkey burgers are done is by checking their internal temperature. A turkey burger is cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Don't Forget to Rest: Letting your BBQ Ranch Turkey Burgers rest for a couple of minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a juicier and more tender burger.
Preheat Your Pan or Grill: A hot cooking surface immediately sears the outside of the burger, locking in moisture and creating a delicious crust.
Toast Your Buns: Lightly toasting your burger buns adds texture and prevents them from getting soggy.
Storage - Cooked Patties: Store cooked and cooled turkey burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate patties with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Storage - Uncooked Patties: Form the patties ahead of time and store them raw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Place parchment paper between each patty.
Storage - Freezing Cooked Patties: Wrap individual cooked burgers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Keep for 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Storage - Freezing Uncooked Patties: Form patties and freeze on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid (1-2 hours). Transfer to a freezer-safe bag, separated by parchment paper. Freeze for 2-3 months. Cook from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to cooking time.
Reheating - Skillet: Place patties in a lightly oiled skillet over medium-low heat. Cook, flipping occasionally, until heated through (5-7 minutes). Add a splash of water and cover with a lid for the last few minutes to help steam and keep them moist.
Reheating - Oven/Toaster Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place patties on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Reheating - Microwave: For a quick reheat, microwave individual patties on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, or until hot. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make them rubbery.