Introduction

These Thai Peanut Turkey Burgers offer a flavorful twist on classic burgers with a blend of fresh herbs and a creamy, spicy peanut sauce. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout.

A sandwich with a toasted sesame seed bun on top, sitting above a grilled patty with a golden-brown texture, drizzled with light brown sauce and sprinkled with chopped peanuts and green herbs. Underneath the patty is a colorful layer of shredded white cabbage, purple cabbage, orange carrot strips, and fresh green cilantro leaves. Thin cucumber slices are arranged around the sandwich on a white plate, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon soy sauce (for sauce)
1 tablespoon lime juice (for sauce)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
2 to 3 tablespoons warm water
4 burger buns, toasted
1 cup shredded carrot
1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, green onions, cilantro, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Step 2: Divide the turkey mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a uniform patty.
Step 3: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook the patties for 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the patties are fully cooked.
Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare the peanut sauce by whisking together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and sriracha in a bowl. Gradually add warm water until the sauce is smooth and pourable.
Step 6: To assemble the burgers, spread peanut sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a turkey patty on top, drizzle with more sauce, then add shredded carrot, cucumber slices, cilantro leaves, and red onion. Cover with the top bun.
Step 7: Serve immediately with extra peanut sauce on the side, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier burger, add extra sriracha to the peanut sauce or sprinkle chili flakes on the patties before cooking.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, substitute panko breadcrumbs in the turkey mixture.
Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or pork if desired.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make this recipe gluten-free.
Toast the buns lightly to add a warm, crisp texture that complements the juicy patties and creamy sauce.

Storage

Store leftover turkey patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the peanut sauce separate in a sealed jar and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Reheat patties gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling the burgers for the best texture.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a sandwich with four layers: the bottom layer is sliced cucumber rounds, the second layer is a colorful mix of shredded white and purple cabbage, thin carrot strips, and green cilantro leaves, the third layer is a browned grilled patty topped with a light brown creamy sauce, chopped peanuts, and extra cilantro, and the top layer is a golden-brown sesame seed bun slightly tilted. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these turkey burgers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The sauce has a mild heat from the optional sriracha. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more, less, or omitting it altogether based on your preference.