Air Fryer Turkey Burgers (No Bun) for a Guilt-Free Delight

Name: Air Fryer Turkey Burgers (No Bun) for a Guilt-Free Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 2, 2025

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If you’re on the hunt for a healthy, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’ve landed in the right place! These Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are not only juicy and delicious, but they’re also low in calories, making them a perfect fit for any health-conscious diet. By using the air fryer, you can enjoy that lovely crispiness without the extra oil, resulting in a guilt-free burger that still delivers on taste. Plus, this recipe is super simple! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a scrumptious meal in about 25 minutes. Whether you’re in a rush or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea, these turkey burgers have got you covered. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making these again and again!

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers (No Bun) - detail 1

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients for these Air Fryer Turkey Burgers is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground turkey: Look for lean ground turkey for a healthier option while keeping it juicy.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
1 teaspoon onion powder: It brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic touch to the patties.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your burgers.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to make things interesting!
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: This magical ingredient adds a savory richness and umami flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps keep your burgers moist and gives them a nice, golden finish.

With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to making some of the tastiest turkey burgers ever, all in your air fryer!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Getting these Air Fryer Turkey Burgers ready is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring your delicious, juicy burgers in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). This ensures that your burgers cook evenly and get that nice, crispy exterior.
Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground turkey, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix, or your burgers could become tough!
Form the patties: Once your mixture is ready, form it into four equal-sized patties. I find that about 1/2 inch thick works best for even cooking. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty; this helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
Brush with olive oil: Gently brush each patty with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This step adds moisture and helps achieve that lovely golden crust.
Cook the patties: Carefully place the patties in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures they cook evenly on both sides.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.

And voilà! Your Air Fryer Turkey Burgers are ready to serve. Feel free to dress them up with your favorite toppings or enjoy them as they are!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: You can whip up these turkey burgers in just 10 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthy option: Lean ground turkey is low in fat and high in protein, giving you a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
Flavorful: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce infuses each burger with mouthwatering taste that you’ll crave again and again.
Low-calorie: At just 200 calories per burger, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Easy clean-up: Cooking in the air fryer means less mess and hassle, so you can spend more time enjoying your delicious burgers and less time scrubbing dishes!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Air Fryer Turkey Burgers come out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips you won’t want to miss:

Watch your cooking time: Every air fryer is a little different, so keep an eye on your burgers as they cook. Start checking for doneness at the 12-minute mark. If they’re not quite there yet, flip them and give them a couple more minutes. You want to hit that magic 165°F (74°C) without overcooking!
Patty thickness matters: Aim for patties about 1/2 inch thick. Thicker patties take longer to cook, while thinner ones can dry out. If you’re unsure, try making one test patty first to gauge the cooking time!
Season to your taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning! If you love a bit of spice, consider adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a kick. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh twist.
Let them rest: Once your burgers are done cooking, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give your burgers some space in the air fryer. If they’re too close together, they won’t cook evenly, and you might miss out on that delightful crispy exterior.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of Air Fryer Turkey Burgers! Enjoy every delicious bite and share your creations with family and friends!

Variations

One of the best things about these Air Fryer Turkey Burgers is how easily you can customize them to suit your taste buds! Here are some fun variations to switch things up and keep your meals exciting:

Italian-Inspired: Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a burst of Mediterranean flavor. Top with fresh basil and a slice of mozzarella cheese after cooking for an irresistible flavor combo!
Spicy Southwest: Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the burger mixture for a kick. Serve with avocado slices and a dollop of salsa or chipotle mayo for a zesty finish.
Asian Twist: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds into the turkey mixture. Top with sliced green onions and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce to give your burgers an Asian flair.
Herbed Delight: Stir in a handful of freshly chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill to add freshness. Pair with tzatziki sauce or a yogurt-based dressing for a light and refreshing meal.
Cheesy Goodness: Fold in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese into the turkey mixture for a creamy surprise. This adds richness and a delicious flavor boost in every bite!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll never get bored with your Air Fryer Turkey Burgers!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Air Fryer Turkey Burgers is a breeze, and it’s one of the best parts about this recipe! Once they’ve cooled down, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick meals throughout the week!

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the burgers too! Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll hold up well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now, onto reheating without losing that juicy goodness! The best way to reheat your turkey burgers is to pop them back in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and cook the burgers for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain that crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and delicious.

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook them, or they might dry out!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Air Fryer Turkey Burgers anytime without sacrificing flavor or texture!

Nutritional Information

As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I strive to provide accurate information, please remember that these estimates are not precise. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional information for one Air Fryer Turkey Burger:

Calories: 200
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 26g

This delicious turkey burger packs a protein punch while keeping the calories in check, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal! Happy cooking!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the best Air Fryer Turkey Burgers? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries along with my tried-and-true answers to help you out:

How long do I cook Air Fryer Turkey Burgers?

For perfectly cooked Air Fryer Turkey Burgers, aim for 12-15 minutes at 360°F (182°C). Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe eating!

Can I add other seasonings to the burger mixture?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. You can add spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper for heat, or even fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Just remember to adjust the amounts to suit your taste!

How do I store leftover turkey burgers?

Once your Air Fryer Turkey Burgers have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Super simple!

Can I reheat these burgers in the air fryer?

You bet! The air fryer is actually the best way to reheat your turkey burgers. Just set it to 360°F (182°C) and warm them for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them juicy and restores that delicious crispy exterior!

What if I don’t have ground turkey?

No worries! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or even lean ground beef if that’s what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the cooking times might vary slightly based on the type of meat you choose.