This recipe provides instructions for making flavorful and juicy Savory Herb and Garlic Turkey Patties, a lighter and healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork patties. These patties are made with ground turkey, which is naturally lower in fat, and are infused with aromatic herbs and savory garlic, creating a delicious and versatile protein option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They are quick to prepare and can be cooked on the stovetop or baked in the oven. The base of these patties is lean ground turkey, which provides a neutral canvas for the added flavors. Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, and sage are finely chopped and mixed into the ground turkey, imparting a fresh and aromatic quality. Garlic, either minced fresh or in powder form, adds a pungent and savory depth. To bind the patties and add moisture, ingredients like breadcrumbs (panko, regular, or gluten-free), a beaten egg, or a combination of both are typically used. A touch of olive oil or another healthy oil can be added to the mixture for extra moisture and to aid in cooking. Seasonings such as salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential to enhance the overall flavor profile. The preparation involves gently combining the ground turkey with the chopped herbs, minced garlic (or garlic powder), breadcrumbs (if using), beaten egg (if using), olive oil (if using), salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. It’s important not to overmix the ingredients, as this can result in tough patties. Once the ingredients are just combined, the mixture is divided into evenly sized portions and formed into round or slightly oval patties. The patties can then be cooked in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, they can be baked in the oven on a baking sheet until cooked through. These Savory Herb and Garlic Turkey Patties are incredibly versatile. They can be served for breakfast alongside eggs and toast, used as a lighter alternative in burgers or sandwiches, or served as a main course with a side of vegetables or salad. They can also be easily customized by adding other seasonings or vegetables to the mixture, such as finely chopped onions or spinach. Their ease of preparation and healthy profile make them a great option for meal prepping as well. The image shows several small, round patties cooking in a skillet with some oil or juices. The patties are browned on the outside and appear to be moist on the inside. There are visible flecks of herbs and possibly garlic on the surface of the patties. A sprig of fresh thyme is also visible in the skillet, adding to the aromatic suggestion of the dish.
The texture of Savory Herb and Garlic Turkey Patties is typically tender and juicy, with a slightly firm exterior that develops a nice browning during cooking. The inclusion of breadcrumbs and egg helps to keep the patties moist and prevents them from becoming dry or crumbly.
The flavor profile is savory and aromatic, dominated by the fresh herbal notes (such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, and sage) and the pungent warmth of garlic. The ground turkey provides a mild and slightly meaty base, which is enhanced by the salt and pepper.
Savory Herb and Garlic Turkey Patties are ground turkey patties seasoned with fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage), garlic (fresh or powder), bound with breadcrumbs and/or egg, and cooked until browned and cooked through.
The preparation involves gently mixing ground turkey with chopped herbs, garlic, breadcrumbs (if using), egg (if using), oil (if using), salt, and pepper, forming the mixture into patties, and then cooking them in a skillet or baking them in the oven until cooked through.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh sage (optional)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko, regular, or gluten-free)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten (optional, for binding)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for moisture)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking oil, for cooking
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Garlic press (if using fresh garlic)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet or baking sheet
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients: Finely chop the fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage, if using) and mince the garlic (if using fresh). Lightly beat the egg in a small bowl, if using.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, chopped fresh herbs, minced garlic (or garlic powder), breadcrumbs (if using), beaten egg (if using), olive oil (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
- Form Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 4-6 equal portions, depending on the desired size of the patties. Gently shape each portion into a round or slightly oval patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make sure the patties are uniform in size so they cook evenly.
- Cook the Patties (Stovetop Method):
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the turkey patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary).
- Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Cook the Patties (Oven Method):
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Place the formed turkey patties on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The patties should be lightly browned.
- Serve: Once cooked, the Savory Herb and Garlic Turkey Patties are ready to be served. They can be enjoyed immediately.
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, toast, and a side of fresh fruit.
- Lunch/Dinner: Use them as a healthier alternative in burgers or sandwiches, topped with your favorite condiments and vegetables.
- Main Course: Serve with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or mashed potatoes.
- Meal Prep: Cook a batch of these patties and store them in the refrigerator for a quick and healthy protein source throughout the week.
Variations:
- Add Onions: Finely chop a small onion and sauté it until softened before adding it to the turkey mixture for extra flavor and moisture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a little heat.
- Cheese Inside: Place a small cube of cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) in the center of each patty before shaping for a cheesy surprise.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Enjoy these delicious and versatile Savory Herb and Garlic Turkey Patties! They are a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy ground turkey.