Healthy & Flavorful Turkey Burgers with Creamy Mushroom Gravy: A Weeknight Delight

Searching for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor? Look no further than these delightful Turkey Burgers with Mushroom Gravy. This recipe transforms ordinary ground turkey into a gourmet experience, reminiscent of a lighter, healthier Salisbury steak. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet wholesome, and it comes together with surprising ease.

Forget dry, bland turkey burgers! Our recipe ensures moist, flavorful patties paired with a rich, creamy mushroom gravy that will have everyone asking for seconds. By focusing on fresh ingredients and simple seasonings, we eliminate the need for breadcrumbs or artificial soup mixes, keeping this dish naturally low-carb and gluten-free, catering to a variety of dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an opportunity to bring robust flavors to your table with minimal fuss. The savory depth of the mushrooms combined with the tang of plain yogurt and richness of heavy cream creates a velvety sauce that perfectly complements the lean turkey. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.

Looking for more easy and delicious dinner inspiration? Explore some of our other fantastic recipes:

• Italian Sausage Rigatoni with Spicy Cream Sauce
• Easy Meatloaf Recipe
• Spanish Pork Chops and Rice
• Crock Pot Beef Tips and Rice
• French Bread Sloppy Joes

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Turkey Burgers with Mushroom Gravy

Crafting these delectable turkey burgers and their accompanying gravy requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layered flavors that make this dish so special.

• Ground Turkey: The star of our dish! For the best flavor and juiciness, we highly recommend using an 85/15 ground turkey blend. The slight fat content prevents the burgers from drying out during cooking and contributes significantly to their taste and texture. Avoid using ground turkey breast alone, as it tends to be too lean and can result in a dry, less flavorful patty.
• Fresh Mushrooms: Mushrooms are absolutely crucial for a rich, earthy gravy. Cremini mushrooms (also known as baby bellas) are our top choice due to their deep flavor and firm texture, which holds up well when cooked. However, common button mushrooms are an excellent and readily available alternative that will still yield delicious results. Make sure to clean them thoroughly before slicing.
• Onion, Green Onions (Scallions), and Garlic: This aromatic trio forms the flavor foundation for both the burgers and the gravy. A quarter of a medium onion, finely shredded or minced, will be incorporated directly into the turkey patties for added moisture and taste. Fresh scallions and minced garlic will be sautéed to build a fragrant base for the mushroom gravy, imparting a sweet and pungent depth.
• Seasonings: A simple yet powerful blend of seasonings elevates the dish. Dried thyme adds a warm, earthy, slightly minty note that pairs wonderfully with both turkey and mushrooms. Red pepper flakes introduce a subtle hint of heat, which can be adjusted to your preference. Basic salt and freshly ground black pepper are essential to enhance all the other flavors.
• Plain Yogurt or Sour Cream: This ingredient is key to achieving the gravy’s delightful creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness. Plain, unsweetened yogurt (full-fat or low-fat) or sour cream works equally well. Greek yogurt can also be used for an even thicker consistency.
• Heavy Cream or Half and Half: To achieve that luxurious, velvety texture in your mushroom gravy, heavy cream is ideal. Its high-fat content creates a truly decadent sauce. If you prefer a slightly lighter option without sacrificing too much richness, half and half can be used as a substitute, though the gravy’s final texture may be a touch less creamy.
• Unsalted Butter: Used for sautéing the aromatics and mushrooms, butter adds a foundational richness and flavor to the gravy that oil alone cannot replicate.
• Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil is used for cooking the turkey patties, ensuring they brown beautifully and cook evenly in the skillet.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Turkey Burgers with Mushroom Gravy

Preparing this wholesome and satisfying meal is surprisingly simple. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfectly cooked turkey burgers enveloped in a savory, creamy mushroom gravy.

Part 1: Preparing and Cooking the Turkey Patties

1. Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, minced or shredded onion, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix with your hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to tough burgers. Form the mixture into four uniform round or oval patties, about ¾ to 1 inch thick. If you’re using pre-made turkey patties, simply season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Patties: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the turkey patties into the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown on the outside and cooked through. To ensure they are safe to eat, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the turkey patties reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
3. Rest the Patties: Once cooked, transfer the turkey patties to a clean plate and set them aside. Cover them lightly with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the mushroom gravy. This resting period also allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender burgers.

Part 2: Crafting the Creamy Mushroom Gravy

4. Start the Gravy Base: Using the same skillet (no need to clean it, the browned bits add flavor!), add two tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt over medium heat.
5. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped scallions to the melted butter and stir for about 30 seconds until they start to soften slightly. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
6. Add Mushrooms and Seasonings: Introduce the cleaned and sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes to the skillet.

Sauté the mushrooms, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a deep, umami flavor in your gravy.

7. Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat slightly. Stir in the plain yogurt (or sour cream) and heavy cream (or half and half). Season the gravy to taste with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
8. Simmer the Gravy: Increase the heat back to medium-high and let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth.
9. Combine and Serve: Gently slide the cooked turkey burgers back into the skillet with the mushroom gravy. Spoon the luscious gravy over the patties, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to warm through for a minute or two. Once everything is hot and bubbling, your delicious dinner is ready to be served!

Serving Suggestions for Your Turkey Burgers with Mushroom Gravy

These flavorful turkey burgers with mushroom gravy are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. For a classic, comforting meal, serve them over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or even a bed of wide egg noodles. The gravy is perfect for soaking into these carb-rich companions.

If you’re keeping things low-carb or keto-friendly, simply enjoy the burgers and gravy as is, allowing the rich sauce and tender turkey to be the star. Complement your meal with:

• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans offer a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Crisp Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gravy.
• Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli florets add a lovely char and tender texture, along with a boost of nutrients.
• Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is an excellent choice that still provides a creamy base for the gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Delicious Turkey Recipes to Enjoy

Turkey Burgers with Mushroom Gravy Recipe

Healthy, lean turkey burgers smothered in a rich, flavorful mushroom gravy – a perfect quick and satisfying weeknight meal!

5 from 1 vote

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Course:
Dinner, Entree, Main Course

Cuisine:
American

Prep Time:

10
minutes

minutes

Cook Time:

30
minutes

minutes

Total Time:

40
minutes

minutes

Servings:
4

Calories:

291
kcal

Author:
Leigh Harris

Ingredients

Sauce

• 
  
  3
  Scallions
  chopped
  
  
• 
  
  2
  tbsp
  Unsalted butter
  
  
• 
  
  2
  cups
  Mushrooms
  sliced (cremini or button)
  
  
• 
  
  2
  Cloves
  Garlic
  minced
  
  
• 
  
  2
  tsp.
  Dried Thyme
  
  
• 
  
  1/8
  tsp.
  Kosher Salt
  or Sea Salt (to taste)
  
  
• 
  
  1/8
  tsp.
  Ground Black pepper
  (to taste)
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  tsp.
  Red pepper flakes
  (optional, adjust to preference)
  
  
• 
  
  2
  Tbsp.
  Plain Yogurt
  or sour cream
  
  
• 
  
  4
  oz
  Heavy Whipped Cream/or Half and Half
  (for richer gravy, use heavy cream)
  
  
• 
  
  Salt to taste
  
  

Turkey Burgers

• 
  
  1
  lbs.
  Ground Turkey
  (85/15 recommended for juiciness)
  
  
• 
  
  1
  tsp.
  Salt
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  tsp.
  Ground Black Pepper
  
  
• 
  
  1/4
  medium
  onion
  shredded or minced
  
  
• 
  
  1
  tbsp.
  Olive Oil
  
  

Instructions

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, shredded/minced onion, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Gently mix until just combined, then form into 4 uniform patties.
  1 lbs. Ground Turkey,
  1 tsp. Salt,
  1/4 medium onion,
  1/2 tsp. Ground Black Pepper
• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey patties for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use an instant-read thermometer).
  1 tbsp. Olive Oil
• Once patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside, covering loosely to keep warm.
• In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp unsalted butter and allow it to melt over medium heat.
  2 tbsp Unsalted butter
• Add chopped scallions, stir for a few seconds, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3 Scallions,
  2 Cloves Garlic
• Add the sliced mushrooms, dried thyme leaves, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms soften and release their moisture.
  2 cups Mushrooms,
  2 tsp. Dried Thyme,
  1/2 tsp. Red pepper flakes
• Stir in the plain yogurt (or sour cream) and heavy cream (or half and half). Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for flavor balance.
  1/8 tsp. Kosher Salt,
  2 Tbsp. Plain Yogurt,
  4 oz Heavy Whipped Cream/or Half and Half,
  1/8 tsp. Ground Black pepper
• Cook the gravy for about 10 minutes over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a rich consistency.
• Return the cooked turkey patties to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom gravy. Spoon gravy over the patties to coat, and allow to gently warm through for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories:
291
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
7
g

|

Protein:
30
g

|

Fat:
17
g

|

Saturated Fat:
8
g

|

Cholesterol:
102
mg

|

Sodium:
625
mg

|

Potassium:
587
mg

|

Fiber:
2
g

|

Sugar:
2
g

|

Vitamin A:
811
IU

|

Vitamin C:
5
mg

|

Calcium:
89
mg

|

Iron:
4
mg

Recipe adapted from sandraseasycooking