Looking for a satisfying and nutritious dinner that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? These Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Burgers pack a punch with flavor while delivering an impressive 28 grams of protein and only 300 calories per serving. Perfectly paired with a side of vegetables, this recipe is sure to please both your palate and your health.
Ingredients
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups plum tomatoes, chopped
- 6 oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped
- 2 tbsp. fresh basil, chopped
- ½ tsp. kosher salt
- ½ tsp. ground pepper
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb. lean ground turkey
- ¼ cup scallions, finely chopped
- 2 tsp. garlic, minced
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp. fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp. lemon zest, grated
- ½ tsp. dried oregano
- ½ tsp. kosher salt
- ½ tsp. ground pepper
- 4 4-inch square slices focaccia bread, toasted
Directions
Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
- Heat the Oil: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cover and cook, stirring frequently, for about five minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped plum tomatoes (including any juices), sun-dried tomatoes, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
- Blend: Stir in the fresh basil, remove from heat, and transfer the mixture to a food processor. Pulse to form a coarse-textured sauce. Return the sauce to the pan and set aside.
Prepare the Turkey Burgers:
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lean ground turkey, scallions, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until evenly combined.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 8 thin patties. In a separate bowl, combine ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese with the chopped basil and place an equal amount in the center of 4 patties. Cover each with the remaining patties and crimp the edges to seal.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and oil the grill rack to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Patties: Place the patties on the grill and cook, turning once, for about 10 minutes or until they are cooked through.
- Warm the Marinara: While the burgers are grilling, warm the marinara sauce on the stove.
Assemble and Serve:
- Prepare the Focaccia: Spread 3 tablespoons of marinara sauce on each slice of toasted focaccia.
- Add the Burger: Place a grilled burger on top of the marinara-covered focaccia.
- Top It Off: Add another 3 tablespoons of marinara on top of the burger and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately, and watch as your family devours this deliciously healthy meal!
Why You’ll Love These Burgers
- Healthy and Filling: These turkey burgers are a great alternative to traditional beef burgers, providing a leaner source of protein without sacrificing flavor. The addition of mozzarella cheese keeps them juicy and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, healthy dinner.
- Versatile Serving Options: These burgers can be enjoyed as is, or you can add your favorite toppings, such as avocado, lettuce, or additional veggies, for an extra crunch.
- Deliciously Unique Flavor: The combination of savory marinara sauce and the melty mozzarella cheese makes every bite a delight, ensuring you won’t miss the calories from traditional burgers.
Conclusion
These Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Burgers are a healthy, delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt. With their impressive nutritional profile and rich flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. So fire up the grill and treat yourself to this delightful dish tonight!