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Air Fryer BBQ Turkey Burgers - Juicy, Fast, and Flavor-Packed

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey (93% lean works best)
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for brushing
  • 2 tbsp finely minced red onion or shallot
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for brushing the basket)
  • 4 burger buns (brioche, potato, or whole wheat)
  • Optional toppings: sliced cheddar or pepper jack, pickles, red onion, lettuce, tomato, coleslaw

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps form a nice crust.
  2. Mix the burger base: In a bowl, combine ground turkey, 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, minced onion, garlic, Worcestershire, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix or the burgers can get tough.
  3. Form the patties: Divide into 4 equal portions. Shape into patties about 1/2 inch thick and slightly wider than your buns. Press a small dimple in the center of each to prevent doming.
  4. Prep the basket: Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil to reduce sticking. You can also use parchment made for air fryers.
  5. Cook the first side: Place patties in a single layer with a little space between them. Air fry for 6–7 minutes.
  6. Flip and glaze: Flip the patties, brush the tops with more BBQ sauce, and cook another 4–6 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Add cheese (optional): If using, add a slice of cheese to each patty in the last 30–60 seconds to melt.
  8. Toast the buns: Pop the buns into the air fryer for 1–2 minutes until lightly crisp at the edges.
  9. Assemble: Spread a little BBQ sauce on the buns, add the turkey burger, and finish with your favorite toppings. Serve right away.