If you’re looking for a delicious and healthier spin on a classic cheeseburger, the Juicy Lucy Turkey Burger is your new go-to recipe. This burger is all about juicy, flavorful turkey patties stuffed with gooey melted cheese—perfect for family dinners, backyard barbecues, or a fun twist on burger night at home. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s dive into how to make the best Juicy Lucy Turkey Burger from scratch, plus expert tips to keep your burgers moist and flavorful every time.
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What Is a Juicy Lucy Turkey Burger?
The Juicy Lucy (sometimes spelled Jucy Lucy) is a famous burger from Minneapolis, traditionally made with beef and stuffed with cheese. Our version uses lean ground turkey for a lighter take, but you still get that irresistible molten cheese center. The result? A burger that’s juicy, packed with flavor, and a little bit healthier!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier option: Using ground turkey reduces fat without sacrificing taste.
- Cheese-stuffed: Every bite is filled with gooey, melted cheese.
- Customizable: Switch up the cheese or add your favorite toppings.
- Perfect for gatherings: These burgers are sure to wow friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean recommended for juiciness)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces cheddar cheese (cut into four cubes or slices)
- Burger buns of your choice
- Your favorite toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, etc.
- Optional: sliced avocado, crispy bacon, or spicy mayo for extra flavor
How to Make Juicy Lucy Turkey Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined—overmixing can make the burgers tough.
Step 2: Shape and Stuff the Patties
- Divide the turkey mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each into thin patties—about 1/4-inch thick.
- Place a cube or slice of cheddar cheese in the center of four patties.
- Top each cheese-stuffed patty with one of the remaining patties. Pinch the edges together tightly to seal in the cheese. Reshape gently if needed to form a smooth burger.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
You can grill, pan-fry, or bake these burgers:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates. Grill burgers for about 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Stovetop: Heat a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook burgers for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers
Toast your burger buns if desired. Layer each bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and your freshly cooked Juicy Lucy Turkey Burger. Add any extra toppings you love—like avocado slices or crispy bacon—for even more flavor.
Tips for the Best Juicy Lucy Turkey Burgers
- Seal the edges well: Make sure there are no gaps so the cheese doesn’t leak out during cooking.
- Don’t overcook: Turkey can dry out quickly—cook just until the internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Add moisture: The egg and breadcrumbs help keep turkey juicy. Don’t skip them!
- Let them rest: Allow burgers to rest a couple of minutes after cooking so the cheese sets slightly and doesn’t ooze out immediately.
- Experiment with cheese: Try Swiss, pepper jack, or mozzarella for fun flavor twists.
Topping Ideas and Serving Suggestions
- Sliced red onion or caramelized onions for a sweet-savory kick
- Crispy lettuce and ripe tomato for freshness
- Dill pickles or spicy pickled jalapeños for tang
- Sliced avocado or guacamole for creamy richness
- Bacon strips for smoky crunch
- Sauces like spicy mayo, chipotle aioli, or classic ketchup and mustard
- Serve with oven fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad on the side
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Prep ahead: Shape and stuff the patties up to one day in advance. Store covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Freezing: Uncooked stuffed patties can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as usual.
- Leftovers: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave—be careful not to overcook!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken works well as a substitute for turkey in this recipe. Just make sure it’s not too lean or your burgers might turn out dry.
What’s the best cheese for Juicy Lucy burgers?
Cheddar is classic, but you can use Swiss, pepper jack, mozzarella, or even blue cheese if you want something different!
How do I keep my turkey burgers from falling apart?
Using an egg and breadcrumbs helps bind everything together. Also, handle the patties gently when shaping and flipping.
Can I grill these burgers outdoors?
Absolutely! Just make sure to oil your grill grates well and flip carefully so the cheese stays inside.
What sides go best with Juicy Lucy Turkey Burgers?
Classic fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a crisp green salad all make great accompaniments.
The Bottom Line
The Juicy Lucy Turkey Burger is proof that healthy doesn’t have to mean boring! With its melty cheese center and juicy turkey patty, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just craving something special at home, these burgers will satisfy every time. Give them a try—you’ll love every cheesy bite!