Actually Delicious Buffalo Turkey Burgers Recipe

Actually Delicious Buffalo Turkey Burgers Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Buffalo Turkey Burgers

This recipe makes a delicious, spicy twist on the classic turkey burger. Perfect for grilling season or any time youre craving a savory, juicy burger with a kick. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds 99%-lean ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • cup panko bread crumbs
  • cup Buffalo wing sauce
  • cup chopped fresh parsley (Optional)
  • 1 egg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon celery seeds
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1 pinch paprika
  • 12 hamburger buns, split
  • 12 slices Monterey Jack cheese
  • 6 tablespoons ranch dressing, or to taste
  • 6 tablespoons Buffalo wing sauce, or to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat your George Foreman Grill or an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, minced onion, panko bread crumbs, cup of Buffalo wing sauce, parsley (if using), egg, garlic, salt, celery seeds, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
  3. Form the mixture into 12 patties, ensuring they are evenly shaped for consistent cooking.
  4. Place the patties on the preheated grill and cook for about 3 minutes. Flip the patties and continue grilling for an additional 2 minutes or until they are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165F (74C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.
  5. Once the patties are cooked, place each one inside a split hamburger bun and top with a slice of Monterey Jack cheese.
  6. In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing and the remaining 6 tablespoons of Buffalo wing sauce. Spread the sauce generously on each burger for an extra burst of flavor.

Cook's Notes

  • If you prefer, you can substitute celery salt for the celery seeds and salt.
  • For a different flavor, try replacing the Buffalo wing sauce with hot sauce mixed with melted butter.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value
Calories 389
Total Fat 16g 21%
Saturated Fat 7g 35%
Cholesterol 97mg 32%
Sodium 1067mg 46%
Total Carbohydrate 28g 10%
Dietary Fiber 1g 5%
Total Sugars 1g
Protein 32g 64%
Vitamin C 3mg 3%
Calcium 290mg 22%
Iron 3mg 16%
Potassium 307mg 7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Buffalo Turkey Burgers

History of the Buffalo Turkey Burger

The Buffalo turkey burger is a modern twist on the classic American burger, drawing its inspiration from Buffalo wings. Buffalo wings, a dish that originated in Buffalo, New York, in 1964, are typically deep-fried chicken wings coated in a spicy sauce made from hot sauce and butter. The concept of incorporating this bold flavor into a burger began in the 1990s as chefs and home cooks alike sought new ways to enjoy the distinctive tangy heat of Buffalo wings in a different form. The Buffalo turkey burger emerged as a healthier alternative to the classic beef burger, offering the same spicy, savory experience but with lean ground turkey.

Regional Features of Buffalo Turkey Burgers

Though the roots of the Buffalo turkey burger are tied to Buffalo, New York, it has quickly spread across the United States. The appeal of these burgers is widespread in American cuisine due to their versatility and the rising popularity of turkey as a leaner meat alternative. Regional variations can include different types of hot sauce or the addition of various toppings, such as blue cheese, pickles, or coleslaw, reflecting regional tastes and preferences. Some versions swap out ranch dressing for blue cheese, keeping the flavor profile close to traditional Buffalo wings.

Differences from Similar Dishes

The Buffalo turkey burger distinguishes itself from traditional beef burgers primarily through the use of lean ground turkey instead of beef. This gives the burger a lighter, healthier profile without compromising on flavor. Additionally, the defining element of a Buffalo turkey burger is the tangy combination of Buffalo wing sauce and creamy ranch dressing. This is a stark contrast to regular burgers, which typically focus on savory ingredients like ketchup, mustard, and pickles. The use of Buffalo wing sauce as a central ingredient adds a spicy kick that is unique to this dish, making it stand out from other gourmet burgers.

Where to Serve Buffalo Turkey Burgers

Buffalo turkey burgers are a popular choice for casual dining, especially in outdoor settings like BBQs, picnics, and cookouts. Their flavor makes them a great choice for sports bars and restaurants offering American fare. Many people enjoy them as a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, particularly when paired with a cold drink or a side of crispy fries. Due to their easy preparation, they are also a favorite for family dinners or gatherings where people are looking for a quick yet flavorful meal.

Interesting Facts

  • The original Buffalo wing sauce was created at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, in 1964. It was a happy accident when the owner tossed leftover chicken wings in a homemade hot sauce.
  • The term "Buffalo" in food names refers to Buffalo, New York, rather than the animal. It became associated with the spicy hot sauce created for chicken wings in the region.
  • Turkey burgers have become a popular alternative to beef burgers, offering a lower-fat, higher-protein option without sacrificing taste.
  • The combination of ranch dressing and Buffalo wing sauce on a burger is a fan favorite, as the creaminess of the ranch balances the heat of the Buffalo sauce perfectly.

Recipe for Actually Delicious Buffalo Turkey Burgers

This recipe brings together the beloved flavors of Buffalo wings and turkey burgers in a delicious and satisfying way. The tangy, spicy kick of Buffalo wing sauce paired with the creaminess of ranch dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether served at a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds 99%-lean ground turkey
  • 1 small onion, minced
  • cup panko bread crumbs
  • cup Buffalo wing sauce
  • cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon celery seed
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1 pinch paprika
  • 12 hamburger buns, split
  • 12 slices Monterey Jack cheese
  • 6 tablespoons ranch dressing, or to taste
  • 6 tablespoons Buffalo wing sauce, or to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat a George Foreman Grill or an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
  2. Combine ground turkey, onion, panko bread crumbs, cup Buffalo wing sauce, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, celery seeds, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and paprika in a large bowl; form into 12 patties.
  3. Cook patties on the preheated grill for 3 minutes; flip. Continue cooking until cooked through, about 2 minutes more. An instant-read thermometer inserted into centers should read at least 165F (74C).
  4. Place each burger inside a bun; top each burger with 1 slice Monterey Jack cheese.
  5. Combine ranch dressing and 6 tablespoons Buffalo wing sauce in a bowl; divide and spread onto each burger.

FAQ about Actually Delicious Buffalo Turkey Burgers Recipe

Leftover buffalo turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked patties for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate the burgers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together when freezing.

Yes, you can prepare the burger patties ahead of time. After shaping them, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can also help the patties firm up, making them easier to cook.

Yes, you can use a regular outdoor grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. Cook the patties for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

These burgers are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with sides like crispy French fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw. For a low-carb option, you can skip the buns and serve the burgers wrapped in lettuce.

Yes, you can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with other cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor. Just make sure the cheese melts well when placed on the hot burger.

If you don't have ranch dressing, you can substitute it with blue cheese dressing for a more classic buffalo flavor, or use any creamy dressing you prefer. You can even make your own by combining sour cream, mayo, and a little garlic powder.

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the buffalo sauce by adding more or less hot sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or mix it with a bit of honey or barbecue sauce to balance the heat.

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, lean beef, or even a plant-based alternative like ground lentils or soy protein. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.

To prevent the turkey burger patties from falling apart, make sure to chill them for about 20 minutes before cooking, either in the fridge or freezer. The panko breadcrumbs and egg help bind the mixture, but chilling gives the patties extra firmness.

The buffalo sauce and ranch dressing mix can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good stir before using, as the sauce may separate over time.

Comments

George Torres

10/02/2023 03:09:32 AM

I followed the recipe almost exactly, but I substituted Swiss cheese for Monterey Jack since that was what I had available. The end result was fantastic. I found that I needed to add more Panko breadcrumbs than the recipe called for, and even then, the patties were a bit delicate, so I decided to chill them in the freezer for 20 minutes before grilling to help them hold together better. The combination of ranch dressing and wing sauce was a delightful surprise, and I can't wait to use it on other dishes. I think it would be perfect for dipping French fries, among other things. I will definitely be recommending this recipe to my friends. Thank you for sharing it!