Name: Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds 93% lean ground turkey; ½ small yellow onion, grated; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 large egg; ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons sea salt; 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 6 hamburger buns, toasted; ½ cup good quality mayonnaise (Duke’s or Helman’s recommended); ¼ cup ketchup (optional); 6 romaine lettuce leaves; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup dill pickles, sliced (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you’re looking for a fresh, juicy meal that feels both comforting and a little bit special, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe. This dish perfectly balances lean turkey packed with flavor, creamy mayonnaise, crisp lettuce, and tangy pickles, making every bite a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you're whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a casual weekend BBQ, these turkey burgers bring a satisfying twist to the classic burger experience.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows ingredients for making burgers laid out on a white marbled surface. There are five shiny golden brown burger buns stacked on the left side in two groups. Next to them, there are small white bowls containing finely chopped onions, a creamy white sauce, and golden yellow oil. There are also bowls with light beige powders, minced garlic, black pepper, and white salt. A brown egg is placed near the center. In the middle, raw pink ground meat is on a piece of white parchment paper. To the right, there is a white plate with green leafy lettuce, another white plate with sliced light green pickles and thin purple onion rings, and a small bowl with bright red ketchup. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that work in harmony to create a mouthwatering masterpiece. Each component plays a key role, from seasoning the juicy patties to ensuring that perfect crunch and creaminess with every bite.

Ground turkey, 2 pounds 93% lean: The star protein that keeps the burgers healthy yet juicy and flavorful.
Yellow onion, ½ small grated: Adds moisture and subtle sweetness to the patties.
Garlic powder, 2 teaspoons: Gives a warm, savory depth without overpowering the delicate turkey flavor.
Large egg, 1: Helps bind the ingredients together for a perfect patty texture.
Plain breadcrumbs, ¼ cup: Adds structure and keeps the burgers tender.
Mustard powder, 1 teaspoon: A subtle tang that enhances the overall zestiness of the burger.
Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon: Infuses a rich umami flavor that elevates the turkey meat.
Sea salt, 2 teaspoons: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Freshly cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon: Adds a hint of spice and complexity.
Extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Perfect for cooking the patties to a beautiful golden crust without drying them out.
Hamburger buns, 6 toasted: Soft and warm, the ideal bed for all the delicious fillings.
Good quality mayonnaise, ½ cup: Creamy and tangy, it adds moisture and richness to every bite.
Ketchup, ¼ cup (optional): A splash of sweetness and tang that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.
Romaine lettuce leaves, 6: Crunchy and fresh, balancing the richness of the burger.
Red onion, ½ thinly sliced: Provides a zesty bite and colorful contrast.
Dill pickles, 1 cup sliced (optional): Adds a briny, crunchy pop that takes these burgers to the next level.

How to Make Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe

Step 1: Make the patties

Start by mixing the ground turkey with grated onion, garlic powder, egg, breadcrumbs, mustard powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. The grated onion and Worcestershire sauce keep the patties moist and flavorful, while the spices add depth. Once the mixture is evenly combined, form it with your hands into 6 patties slightly larger than your buns. This ensures juicy, generously sized burgers.

Step 2: Cook the patties

Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat—this type of pan helps develop a lovely crust on the turkey. Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each side without pressing them, which helps retain their juices. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to get perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat turkey burgers that remain tender and juicy.

Step 3: Assemble the burgers

Spread mayonnaise on the cut side of each toasted bun for creamy richness and optional ketchup if you like an extra hint of sweetness. Then layer with crisp romaine lettuce, the juicy turkey patties, thinly sliced red onions, and dill pickles for that perfect tang and crunch. Stack everything carefully and serve immediately to enjoy a symphony of fresh and flavorful textures.

How to Serve Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe

Two thick burgers are shown on a wooden board placed on a white marble surface. Each burger has a shiny light brown top bun with a smooth texture. Below the buns, there are green leafy lettuce leaves, followed by thin slices of purple onion and green pickles. Next, a large, well-cooked, brown meat patty sits thick and juicy in the middle. Below the patties, a layer of creamy white sauce mixed with a little red sauce is spread on the soft light brown bottom buns. Some green lettuce leaves and onion rings are scattered around the board. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sometimes the simplest garnishes make all the difference. Add a slice of ripe tomato or some avocado for creaminess and color. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives can brighten the presentation and add an herbal note. If you like spice, try a few jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce on the side.

Side Dishes

Serve these turkey burgers with classic fries or sweet potato wedges for a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. A crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the burger’s richness perfectly. For a lighter option, pickled vegetables or grilled seasonal veggies balance the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe to the next level by serving the patties open-faced on artisan bread with a drizzle of flavored mayo. You can also turn them into sliders using mini buns for a fun party appetizer. Wrapping the assembled burger in parchment paper or serving it with colorful toothpicks adds a charming homemade touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover turkey burgers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making a quick lunch or dinner option easy to pull together.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked turkey patties by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe is freezer-friendly and will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For reheating, the best method is to warm the patties gently in a skillet over low-medium heat until heated through, which helps maintain their juiciness. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook. Toast the buns fresh just before serving to keep everything delicious.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works as a great substitute and will yield similar juicy and flavorful results. Just follow the same cooking instructions to ensure they are cooked through.

Is it necessary to use mayonnaise on the buns?

Mayonnaise adds creaminess and a smooth texture that balances the other ingredients, but if you prefer, you can swap it with mustard, aioli, or even a flavored yogurt-based sauce for a different twist.

How do I prevent turkey burgers from drying out?

The key is not to overwork the meat when mixing and not to press the patties while cooking. Adding grated onion and a binding egg, as in this recipe, also helps keep them moist and tender.

Can I grill these turkey burgers instead of cooking in a skillet?

Yes, grilling is a fantastic option. Just preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the patties for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

What kind of pickles work best in this recipe?

Dill pickles are preferred for their bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the mayo and turkey. However, bread-and-butter pickles or spicy pickles can add a unique flavor twist if you want to experiment.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe is like giving yourself a well-deserved culinary hug. It’s a dish that’s easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these burgers bring joy with every bite and might just become your new go-to favorite.

Turkey Burgers with Mayonnaise, Lettuce, and Pickles Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need