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Turkey Smash Burgers

This dish involves shaping seasoned ground turkey into small patties and pressing them flat on a hot skillet, creating a crispy exterior and tender interior. The process emphasizes the act of smashing the meat during cooking, resulting in a textured, golden-brown burger with a slight crunch. Final appearance features evenly flattened, well-browned patties ready for serving.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 pound ground turkey preferably lean
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon oil vegetable or canola

Equipment

  • Skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Combine ground turkey, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl, then gently mix until evenly incorporated. Divide the mixture into two equal portions and form into loose balls.
    1/2 pound ground turkey, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  2. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil, swirling to coat the surface. Once the oil shimmers and begins to smoke slightly, carefully place the turkey balls onto the pan, spreading them slightly apart.
    1 tablespoon oil
  3. Using a spatula, immediately press down firmly on each ball to flatten into thin patties, about 1/2-inch thick. You should hear a sizzle and see the edges start to turn golden brown.
  4. Cook the patties undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes, until the bottom develops a deep golden-brown crust and the edges are crispy. Flip the patties carefully using the spatula, then cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the second side is equally browned and the patties are cooked through.
  5. Remove the cooked smash burgers from the skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while crispy hot, optionally with buns, toppings, or condiments.

Notes

Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the meat to achieve a crispy crust. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain high heat and proper searing. You can customize toppings and buns to your preference.