Save to Pinterest These Lightened-Up Turkey Burger Lettuce Wraps are the perfect answer to a burger craving when you want something fresh, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. By replacing the traditional bun with crisp butter lettuce and utilizing lean ground turkey, this recipe provides a low-carb, high-protein meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. Each serving contains 29g of protein and only 315 calories, making it a nutritious choice for any night of the week. The highlight is undoubtedly the homemade avocado ranch dressing, which adds a creamy, herbal brightness to every bite.
Save to Pinterest Whipping up these burgers is a breeze, making them ideal for busy weeknights. The mixture of smoked paprika and Dijon mustard ensures the turkey remains juicy and savory, while the fresh toppings of cucumber and red onion provide a delightful crunch. This dish is a great way to enjoy American cuisine in a lightened-up, gluten-free format that the whole family will appreciate.
Ingredients
- For the Turkey Burgers
- 500 g (1.1 lb) ground turkey (lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- For the Avocado Ranch Dressing
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (light or regular)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
- For Assembly
- 8 large butter lettuce leaves
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Step 2
- Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
- Step 3
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add turkey patties and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 74°C / 165°F). Set aside to rest.
- Step 4
- While burgers cook, make the avocado ranch: In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth, adding water 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Step 5
- To assemble, layer two lettuce leaves per serving. Place a turkey patty on each, then top with tomato, red onion, cucumber, and a generous spoonful of avocado ranch dressing.
- Step 6
- Fold lettuce around the burger and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure your turkey burgers are perfectly cooked, always use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula while cooking, as this forces out the juices. Let the burgers rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for a moister bite.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer a different poultry, you can easily substitute ground chicken for the turkey. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a dash of hot sauce into the burger mixture or top the assembled wraps with sliced jalapeños. If you want to keep the dressing for longer, the avocado ranch can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Serviervorschläge
These lettuce wraps pair beautifully with a light, citrusy white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc to complement the lemon and dill in the ranch dressing. For a more complete meal, serve them alongside a side of baked sweet potato fries or a simple vinegar-based coleslaw for extra crunch.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a calorie-conscious dinner, these turkey burger wraps are a delicious way to enjoy classic flavors with a modern, healthy twist. Serve them immediately while the patties are warm and the lettuce is crisp for the best dining experience!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you keep turkey burgers juicy?
Mix the ground turkey with finely chopped onions and herbs, and avoid overmixing to retain moisture. Cooking over medium heat and not pressing the patties helps keep them juicy.
- → What makes the avocado ranch creamy without heaviness?
Using ripe avocado combined with Greek yogurt and a touch of mayonnaise creates a creamy texture with freshness and less fat compared to traditional dressings.
- → Can I prepare the avocado ranch in advance?
Yes, the avocado ranch can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to two days. Stir well before serving to maintain consistency.
- → What are good lettuce options for these wraps?
Butter lettuce leaves are ideal as they are sturdy yet tender, offering a crisp and flexible wrap without breaking.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the turkey patties?
Try adding smoked paprika, garlic, Dijon mustard, or a dash of hot sauce for a smoky, tangy, or spicy kick that enhances the savory profile.
- → Is it possible to substitute turkey with other proteins?
Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey, maintaining a light and lean profile with similar cooking methods.