Basil and Spinach Turkey Burgers

Name: Basil and Spinach Turkey Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Whole grain burger buns; Yogurt sauce or your favorite condiment; Lettuce and tomato slices

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love creating flavorful turkey burgers, and the combination of basil and spinach takes these to the next level! The fresh herbs infuse the turkey with a vibrant taste that makes each bite truly memorable. I've experimented with different greens, but nothing compares to the aromatic basil paired with the slight earthiness of the spinach. These burgers cook up juicy and flavorful on the grill or stovetop and are perfect for a summer barbecue or a healthy weeknight dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:26:19.216Z

When I first paired turkey with fresh basil and spinach, I knew I stumbled upon something special. These ingredients not only add great flavor but also make the burgers incredibly moist. I recommend adding a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the taste even further. Cooking on medium heat ensures the burgers stay juicy without burning on the outside.

The experience of watching these burgers sizzle on the grill while the aroma fills the air is truly delightful. I often serve them with whole grain buns and a dollop of yogurt sauce to keep it fresh and light. This recipe is now a staple in our household, adored by friends and family alike.

Why You'll Love These Burgers
Fresh and aromatic flavor of basil with nutrient-rich spinach.
Lean turkey meat that's juicy and satisfying.
Versatile and perfect for grilling or pan-frying.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of fresh basil and spinach not only elevates the flavor profile of the turkey burgers but also boosts their nutritional content. Basil adds a fragrant touch with slightly sweet notes, while spinach contributes essential vitamins and minerals. These greens not only enhance the burger’s juiciness but also prevent it from becoming dry since they release moisture during cooking. If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but the vibrant taste won’t be as pronounced.

Using lean ground turkey is key to keeping these burgers both flavorful and healthy. Make sure to choose turkey with a little fat, ideally 93% lean, to enhance moisture without adding too many calories. If you prefer a richer flavor, you could substitute half of the turkey with ground chicken or even lean beef. However, keep in mind that the herbs shine through better with turkey, so adjust your expectations when changing the protein.

Cooking Techniques

When shaping your burger patties, avoid overworking the meat; doing so can make them tough. A gentle touch ensures they remain tender. Aim for about three-quarters of an inch thickness for even cooking and to prevent them from drying out. If you notice the patties falling apart, a little more breadcrumbs can help bind the mixture without compromising the flavor.

For cooking, using a skillet gives you great control over heat, which is crucial for proper cooking. Keep the skillet heated to medium; a drop of water should sizzle upon contact. This technique creates a nice sear, adding a delicious golden crust, while inside, the turkey remains moist. If you prefer grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to ensure easy flipping and to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these turkey burgers on whole grain buns not only adds flavor but also nutritional value. To enhance the freshness, lightly toast the buns on a skillet or grill for a minute or two until they’re golden and warm. This will add a lovely crunch and prevent them from becoming soggy when topped with the yogurt sauce and veggies.

For condiments, feel free to get creative! A yogurt sauce is a fantastic choice due to its cooling effect that balances spices, but consider adding a dash of lemon zest or hot sauce for extra kick. You can also layer on other toppings such as avocado, grilled onions, or roasted bell peppers to elevate the burgers even further. Pair with a simple side salad or sweet potato fries for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Turkey Burger Mixture

1 pound ground turkey
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

To Serve

Whole grain burger buns
Yogurt sauce or your favorite condiment
Lettuce and tomato slices

Mix together the ingredients well and form into patties. Chill for a few minutes before cooking.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped spinach, chopped basil, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form into four equal-sized patties.

Cook the Burgers

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.

Serve

Place the cooked turkey burgers on whole grain buns and top with yogurt sauce, lettuce, and tomato. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Feel free to add your favorite toppings to personalize the burgers!

Pro Tips

You can substitute the turkey for ground chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a different flavor profile. Adding chopped onions or bell peppers can also elevate the taste even more.

Make-Ahead Tips

These turkey patties can be made ahead of time, making weeknight meals a breeze. Consider prepping the mixture a day in advance and storing it in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld, resulting in tastier burgers. When ready to cook, simply form the patties and grill or pan-fry them as directed.

If you wish to freeze the burgers, shape them and place them between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To cook from frozen, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge, or cook them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your turkey burgers end up being too dry, this usually means they were overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety, but remember to take them off the heat right at that temperature; they will continue cooking slightly while resting. A moist patty is the ultimate goal, so undercooking slightly is better than overdoing it.

In case your patties crumble during cooking, ensure you’ve mixed the binding agents—the breadcrumbs and cheese—well into the turkey mixture. Adding a beaten egg can also help improve binding if you encounter this issue. If you need extra moisture, consider adding finely minced onion or using turkey that has a slightly higher fat content.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different herbs if basil and spinach aren’t to your liking. Chopped cilantro or parsley can create a fresh burst of flavor, while a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a bit of warmth. These slight changes can create completely new dishes without much effort while still maintaining the essence of the turkey burger.

For a Mediterranean twist, you could incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and crumbled feta cheese into the mixture, creating a burger with a distinct tangy flavor. This not only diversifies your meal options but also highlights the versatility of turkey as a protein, allowing you to enjoy it in various culinary forms.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the turkey burger patties?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking.

→ What can I serve with these burgers?

These turkey burgers pair well with sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or a side of grilled vegetables.

→ How do I know when the burgers are fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the burgers should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can substitute dried herbs in a pinch. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as fresh.