Bland, dry turkey is officially a thing of the past. If you have been searching for a way to enjoy a burger that is kind to your heart but still satisfies your craving for something juicy and savory, this is it. Hoisin sauce, jalapeño, and garlic give each bite of this heart-healthy garlic chili turkey burger recipe an irresistibly bold kick that is cooled with a light yogurt sauce. Skip the excess saturated fat of traditional beef patties and savor the spices in this healthy dinner favorite.
If you are looking for more meals packed with lean protein, check out all of our healthy turkey recipes! From more burgers and casseroles to stews and salads, our delicious and easy turkey recipes are perfect for any day of the week.
Turkey burgers are a classic choice for a heart-healthy diet because they offer high-quality protein with significantly less saturated fat than ground beef. By using lean ground turkey and flavoring it with potent aromatics like fresh ginger and garlic instead of heavy amounts of salt, you create a meal that supports cardiovascular health without sacrificing satisfaction.
Yes, turkey burgers can be an excellent choice for heart patients when made with lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher) and flavored with herbs and spices rather than excessive salt. They are lower in saturated fat than traditional beef burgers.
Because turkey is lean, it can be crumbly. In this recipe, the hoisin sauce and chili garlic sauce act as flavorful binders that help hold the meat together. If you find your mixture is still too loose, you can add a tablespoon of quick oats or breadcrumbs, though this recipe is designed to hold together without them.
The secret to a juicy turkey burger is adding moisture back into the lean meat. This recipe uses yogurt sauce and hoisin within the mix or as toppings to add creaminess. Avoid overcooking; use a meat thermometer to pull them off the heat exactly when they reach 165°F.
Generally, yes. Lean ground turkey is lower in cholesterol-raising saturated fats compared to high-fat cuts of red meat. Pairing the burger with fiber-rich sides like vegetables or a whole-wheat bun can further support heart health.
Unlike beef, turkey must be cooked thoroughly to kill bacteria. However, sometimes turkey can remain slightly pink even when fully cooked due to certain ingredients or pH levels. The only way to be sure it is safe is to use a meat thermometer; if it reads 165°F in the center, it is safe to eat regardless of color.
If you love the experience of a classic cookout but want to skip the extra saturated fat, these healthy burger alternatives are the perfect solution. From juicy beef swaps to creative twists like Greek and Caprese flavors, these recipes prove you don't need red meat to make a satisfying patty.
Turn your burger night into a balanced feast with these nutrient-dense healthy sides that replace heavy, fried options. Whether you crave crispy fries, creamy potato salad, or a refreshing fruit medley, these pairings add color and fiber to your plate without weighing you down.
Ground turkey is a versatile staple in a heart-healthy kitchen. It is often sold in varying ratios of lean meat to fat, such as 85/15, 93/7, or 99% fat-free. For burgers, a 93% lean blend is often the sweet spot, it is lean enough to be heart-smart but retains enough moisture to prevent the patty from becoming dry or crumbly. Turkey is also a good source of B vitamins and minerals like selenium, making it a nutrient-dense swap for heavier red meats.
Recipe yields 4 servings
In a medium bowl, whisk the vinegar, sugar and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved. Add the cucumber and onion, toss and marinate for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the yogurt and 1 teaspoon of the chili garlic sauce.
In a large bowl, combine the turkey, hoisin sauce, hot sauce, scallions, ginger, garlic, jalapeño, chopped cilantro and the remaining 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce. Form into 4 patties.
In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat the oil until hot. Cook the patties, turning once, until the meat is no longer pink, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Drain the cucumber and red onion mixture and toss with the whole cilantro leaves.
Arrange a burger patty on each bun and top with yogurt sauce, lettuce leaves, and cucumber and red onion mixture.
To make this recipe gluten-free, use a certified gluten-free bun and ensure your hoisin sauce and hot sauce are certified gluten-free brands.
If you do not have low-fat plain yogurt, plain Greek yogurt works excellently and adds a bit more protein and thickness to the sauce.
If you need to watch sugar or sodium strictly, look for a low-sodium or paleo-friendly hoisin alternative, or use a small amount of low-sodium soy sauce or tamari mixed with a drop of honey.
Fresh ginger and garlic provide the best "zing," but in a pinch, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder.