Pizza Inspired Turkey Burgers

Crafting the Perfect Homemade Turkey Burgers

There’s a special satisfaction that comes with making homemade turkey burgers. Unlike ground beef, ground turkey offers a milder flavor profile, making it an excellent canvas for culinary creativity. This versatility allows you to infuse the meat with your unique signature by experimenting with various seasonings and toppings. Today, we’re taking a delightful detour to Italy, transforming the humble turkey burger into an irresistible pizza-inspired masterpiece. For another Italian-themed twist, don’t forget to try my popular Caprese turkey burgers!

Experience the Best Pizza Burgers: A Culinary Fusion

A Pizza Lover’s Dream in a Burger. If your heart beats for pizza, then these pizza burgers are destined to become your new obsession. We’ve expertly captured everything wonderful about a classic pizza and packed it into a hearty burger: savory pepperoni, gooey cheese, rich sauce, and fragrant fresh basil. It’s a testament to the fact that you can never have too much pizza flavor! (Confession: I might have a slight pizza fixation, with over 30 unique pizza recipes on my site!)

Unleash Unforgettable Flavor. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor! These juicy turkey burgers are meticulously seasoned with aromatic garlic, oregano, and onion, then generously studded with delightful bits of spicy pepperoni and savory Parmesan cheese. But the pizza experience doesn’t end there! Each burger is crowned with a luscious layer of pizza sauce, a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese, and vibrant fresh basil, mimicking your favorite slice of pie. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making these burgers a truly gourmet treat.

Broiled to Perfection, Rain or Shine. Forget about firing up the grill, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. These delectable pizza burgers are expertly broiled in the oven, ensuring a perfect cook every time. Homemade turkey burgers tend to have a softer consistency, which makes broiling a much more forgiving and easier option compared to grilling. Plus, clean-up is an absolute breeze thanks to lining your baking sheet with foil. For those with an air fryer, this recipe can also be adapted for air fryer turkey burgers, offering another convenient cooking method.

Key Ingredient Insights for Your Pizza Turkey Burgers

Understanding your ingredients is the first step to a truly outstanding burger. Here’s a closer look at what goes into our delicious pizza turkey burgers:

• Ground Turkey: Just like ground beef, ground turkey comes in various fat percentages. For the most flavorful and juicy burgers, I highly recommend using 85/15 ground turkey (meaning 15% fat content). The slight fat content contributes significantly to both taste and moisture. While 93/7 can be an alternative, I strongly advise against using fat-free ground turkey breast, as it often results in a drier, less satisfying burger experience.
• Pepperoni: A small amount of pepperoni, approximately 1 ounce or about ⅓ cup finely chopped, goes a long way in infusing these burgers with that distinctive, savory pizza flavor. Feel free to opt for turkey pepperoni if you prefer. Sliced pepperoni is also a fantastic ingredient to keep on hand in your fridge, ready to add a zesty kick to sandwiches, casseroles, or any homemade pizza creation.
• Onion: A small yellow cooking onion is ideal for this recipe. We don’t need a lot, and grating it directly over your mixing bowl ensures that you capture all the flavorful onion juices, which add moisture and depth to the burgers without any large, distracting pieces. Finely chopped green onion can also serve as a good, milder substitute if yellow onion isn’t available.
• Egg: The egg acts as a crucial binder, working in conjunction with the panko bread crumbs. It helps hold the burger mixture together, preventing it from falling apart during cooking, while also contributing to a tender and moist texture.
• Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko bread crumbs are distinctively coarser and lighter than regular bread crumbs, contributing to a more tender burger texture. If you decide to substitute with regular bread crumbs, use slightly less, as they absorb more liquid. For a gluten-free alternative, rolled oats, quick oats, or gluten-free bread crumbs work wonderfully. You can even make your own homemade breadcrumbs from day-old bread for extra freshness!
• Parmesan Cheese: Finely shredded or grated Parmesan cheese is a powerful flavor enhancer here. It adds a delicious savory depth and a subtle saltiness that complements the other Italian-inspired seasonings in the burger mix.
• Dried Oregano, Garlic Powder, Salt, and Pepper: This classic blend of simple yet potent seasonings is the cornerstone of the burgers’ Italian flair, creating an aromatic and deeply satisfying base flavor.
• Pizza Sauce: Moving beyond traditional burger condiments like ketchup, these pizza burgers embrace the richness of pizza sauce. Any variety of your favorite pizza sauce will work perfectly, including a vibrant homemade pizza sauce. Marinara sauce or even a good quality spaghetti sauce can also be used in a pinch.
• Mozzarella Cheese: What’s a pizza burger without its signature melted cheese? Shredded mozzarella offers that classic stretchy, gooey texture. For an elevated touch, consider substituting with fresh mozzarella slices for a creamier melt.
• Fresh Basil: Large, fragrant basil leaves are not just a garnish here; they serve as a fantastic, flavorful substitute for lettuce on your burgers. Their peppery, sweet aroma is indispensable. If fresh basil isn’t readily available, a few baby spinach leaves or crisp lettuce will still provide a fresh element, though you’ll certainly miss the unique taste of basil.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making Irresistible Pizza Burgers

Creating these flavorful pizza turkey burgers is a straightforward process, perfect for a weeknight meal. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by lining a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. This simple step is a game-changer for easy cleanup. Next, preheat your oven broiler to high. Position an oven rack in the upper third of your oven to ensure even cooking and a perfect golden finish on your burgers.

2. Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently whisk the egg until lightly beaten. To this, add your ground turkey, finely chopped pepperoni, panko bread crumbs, all the Italian seasonings (dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper), and the grated Parmesan cheese. Peel a small yellow onion and grate it directly over the bowl, allowing its flavorful juices to enrich the mixture. This technique ensures maximum flavor and moisture.

3. Gently Mix to Perfection: Now comes the fun part! If you’re comfortable getting your hands a little sticky, use your fingers to thoroughly blend all the ingredients. This is truly the best method to ensure everything is evenly distributed. The key here is to mix gently and avoid overworking the meat mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough, dry burgers, which we definitely want to avoid. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients appear to be just combined.

4. Form Burger Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty, about ½ inch thick. A clever trick for even cooking is to make the centers of your patties slightly thinner. This ensures that the burgers cook through uniformly without the edges becoming overcooked or dry. Place these meticulously formed patties onto your prepared baking sheet.

5. Broil to Golden Brown: Carefully place the baking sheet with your burger patties under the preheated broiler. Broil for 6 to 7 minutes on the first side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color. Then, flip the burgers over and continue broiling for another 4 to 6 minutes. The most crucial part is ensuring the burgers are cooked all the way through; an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should register an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and no pink should remain in the meat.

6. Add the Pizza Toppings: Once the burgers are fully cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven, but keep the broiler on. Generously spread a tablespoon of your favorite pizza sauce over the top of each burger. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Return the baking sheet to the broiler for an additional minute or two, just until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning!

7. Assemble and Serve: For an extra layer of deliciousness, lightly butter and toast your hamburger buns. This simple step adds a wonderful texture and richness. Place the cheesy, saucy burgers on the bottom halves of your toasted buns. If you like, add an extra dollop of pizza sauce to the bottom bun for an even more intense flavor experience. Finally, crown each burger with a generous handful of fresh basil leaves. Think of the basil as a vibrant, aromatic alternative to traditional lettuce; don’t be shy with it! The fresh basil provides a burst of flavor and a lovely fresh counterpoint to the rich burger.

8. Enjoy Your Culinary Creation: Your homemade Pizza Turkey Burgers are now ready to be savored! These flavorful burgers are a complete meal in themselves, but if you’re looking to elevate the experience, consider a light side salad or some roasted vegetables. And for a truly satisfying finish, don’t forget dessert! A homemade snickerdoodle cookie or a classic oatmeal cookie always makes for a perfect ending. Alternatively, these amazing blueberry crumb bars are also highly recommended.

Exciting Recipe Variations to Explore

These pizza turkey burgers are incredibly adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize your next batch:

• Meat Swap: If ground turkey isn’t your preference, this recipe works beautifully with other ground meats. Feel free to substitute with ground beef for a richer flavor, or ground chicken for an equally lean and delicious alternative. The Italian seasonings and pizza toppings complement any of these choices wonderfully.
• Quick Shortcut Option: Short on time? You can still enjoy the deliciousness of a pizza burger! Cook store-bought frozen turkey burgers according to their package directions. Once cooked, simply top them with your favorite pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil, then broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Making these burgers gluten-free is simple. Replace the panko bread crumbs with an equal amount of rolled oats, quick oats, or specifically labeled gluten-free bread crumbs. To serve, skip the bun entirely and enjoy them as a hearty patty, or opt for your favorite gluten-free hamburger buns.
• Bun-Free Delight: For a lighter meal, or if you’re avoiding bread, these pizza burgers are fantastic served as a fork-and-knife meal. Omit the buns and instead pair them with a fresh arugula salad, a side of pasta, or some wholesome roasted Parmesan broccoli for a complete and satisfying dish.
• Explore New Flavor Profiles: Don’t limit yourself to pizza! Turkey burgers are incredibly versatile. Think outside the box and experiment with different seasonings and toppings. How about a Taco Burger, seasoned with southwestern spices and topped with creamy guacamole, fresh salsa, and cotija cheese? Or perhaps a Fajita Burger featuring grilled onions and peppers? For a Mediterranean twist, create a Greek burger seasoned with oregano and garlic, finished with a dollop of cool and refreshing tzatziki sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Discover the Versatility of Ground Turkey: Beyond Burgers

Did you know that ground turkey is not only perfect for burgers but also transforms beautifully into delicious meatballs? Expand your culinary repertoire with these fantastic options: try savory baked Italian-style turkey meatballs for your next pasta dish, or explore the fresh flavors of Greek meatballs, perfect with a lemon-dill yogurt sauce. Ground turkey offers a healthy and flavorful foundation for countless meal ideas.

Make-Ahead Meal Prep for Convenience

Streamline your meal prep and enjoy these delicious pizza turkey burgers with even greater ease by preparing them in advance:

Refrigerator Prep: You can prepare the burger patties (without toppings) up to a day in advance. Simply form them, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This foresight means you can have a flavorful, homemade dinner on the table in about fifteen minutes when hunger strikes!

Freezer-Friendly Option: For longer storage, the uncooked burger patties freeze exceptionally well for up to two months. To prevent them from sticking together, place a layer of waxed paper or parchment paper between each patty before arranging them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. For the best results and texture, always thaw the frozen patties overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Smart Storage & Reheating Solutions

Ensuring your pizza turkey burgers taste just as good the next day is simple with these storage and reheating tips:

Storing Leftover Burgers: For leftover cooked burgers, remove them from their buns and wrap them well in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place them in an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you wish to store them longer, cooked burgers without toppings can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure they are completely cooled before freezing. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best quality.

Reheating Instructions:

• With Toppings: If your leftover burgers already have the pizza sauce and cheese added, the quickest and easiest way to reheat them is in the microwave until heated through.
• Without Toppings: For burgers stored without their toppings, it’s best to reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer. This method helps maintain a crispier texture. Once heated through, add a fresh layer of pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella, then heat briefly again until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly. This method ensures that delightful fresh-pizza experience every time.

Unlock Your Free Weekly Meal Plan!

Planning nutritious and delicious meals throughout the week just got easier! Are you eager to incorporate this fantastic Pizza Turkey Burger recipe into a broader weekly meal plan?

Discover our meticulously crafted meal plans, which provide a wholesome recipe for each weekday, complete with a categorized grocery list to simplify your shopping. Take a look at Meal Plan #13 or explore the options in Meal Plan #48. These resources are designed to help you organize your culinary week efficiently and deliciously.

Browse All Meal Plans Here

Recipe

Pizza Turkey Burgers

4.75 from 4 votes

By
Rachel Gurk

Prep Time:

15 minutes mins

Cook Time:

15 minutes mins

Total Time:

30 minutes mins

Servings:
4

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These ground turkey pizza burgers are infused with classic Italian flavors and your favorite pizza toppings for a juicy, tender, and incredibly satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 ounce sliced pepperoni, finely chopped (about ⅓ cup)
• 1 small yellow onion, grated or finely diced (grate over bowl to catch juices)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ¼ cup finely shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper

Topping Ingredients:

• ¼ cup pizza sauce, (more if desired)
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 12 to 18 large fresh basil leaves (use generously like lettuce)

Instructions

• Preheat your oven broiler to high setting, positioning the oven rack in the top third of the oven. Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for simplified cleanup after cooking.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped pepperoni, grated onion (ensuring you catch all juices by grating directly over the bowl), lightly beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs, dried oregano, garlic powder, kosher salt, and coarse black pepper. Use your hands to gently blend all ingredients until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the burgers tender.
  1 pound ground turkey,
  1 ounce sliced pepperoni, finely chopped, about ⅓ cup,
  1 small yellow onion, grated or finely diced,
  1 large egg, lightly beaten,
  ¼ cup finely shredded or grated Parmesan cheese,
  ¼ cup panko bread crumbs,
  1 teaspoon dried oregano,
  ½ teaspoon garlic powder,
  ¼ teaspoon kosher salt,
  ¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper
• Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty approximately ½ inch thick. Make sure to create a slight indentation in the center of each patty; this helps them cook more evenly and prevents them from puffing up. Place the formed patties onto your prepared sheet pan.
• Broil the burgers on high for 6 to 7 minutes on one side, or until beautifully browned. Carefully flip the burgers over and continue to cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the burgers are thoroughly cooked through. To ensure doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.
• Remove the sheet pan from the broiler. Spread about a tablespoon of pizza sauce evenly over the top of each cooked burger, then sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return the pan to the broiler for an additional 1 minute, or just until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
  ¼ cup pizza sauce, more if desired,
  ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Assemble your pizza burgers by placing each cheesy patty onto a hamburger bun (toasted and buttered for extra flavor, if desired). Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves, treating them like flavorful lettuce. Feel free to add an extra drizzle of pizza sauce to the bun if you wish. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade pizza burger feast!
  12 to 18 large basil leaves

Notes

• Gluten-Free Option: To make these burgers gluten-free, simply substitute the panko bread crumbs with an equal amount of rolled oats, quick oats, or a certified gluten-free bread crumb blend. Serve the delicious patties either without buns or on your preferred gluten-free hamburger buns.
• Cheese Preference: While shredded mozzarella works wonderfully, slices of fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute for a creamier, richer melt. Simply place the fresh slices on top of the sauce before broiling.
• Advance Preparation: For convenient meal planning, you can prepare the uncooked burger patties up to a day ahead of time. Store them covered and refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze the raw patties for up to two months. Ensure you place waxed paper or parchment paper between each burger before storing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for optimal results before cooking.
• Nutritional Information: The provided nutrition information is calculated for one burger with its toppings, but it does not include the bun. Please consider this when planning your meal.
• Recipe Update: This recipe was last updated on March 3, 2022, to ensure accuracy and provide the best culinary experience.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Serving: 1 burger with toppings,
Calories: 258kcal,
Carbohydrates: 7g,
Protein: 35g,
Fat: 10g,
Saturated Fat: 4g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g,
Trans Fat: 1g,
Cholesterol: 122mg,
Sodium: 592mg,
Potassium: 497mg,
Fiber: 1g,
Sugar: 2g,
Vitamin A: 328IU,
Vitamin C: 3mg,
Calcium: 142mg,
Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

(This picture has nothing to do with the burgers, but it’s been a while since I posted a picture of E, and I just can’t help myself!)

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