If you’ve been on the hunt for juicy turkey burger recipes that don’t skimp on flavor, this mozzarella-stuffed turkey burger is about to become your go-to. These burgers are ridiculously satisfying, filled with melty mozzarella cheese, and packed with bold seasonings that make them taste like the best turkey burgers ever. Whether you're grilling them outdoors or pan-searing indoors, they’re perfect for anyone looking for ground turkey recipes for dinner that hit the sweet spot between indulgent and wholesome.
Ooey Gooey Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Burgers
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Mixing bowl to combine your ground turkey and seasonings
Grill or stovetop skillet use a grill pan if you're indoors
Spatula or burger press helpful for flattening the burgers
Meat Thermometer ensures your turkey is cooked to 165°F
Optional: Burger stuffer tool makes creating a cheese pocket easier, but you can also just use your hands
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey preferably 93% lean for a balance of moisture and flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese low-moisture works best for stuffing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for grilling or pan-searing
- Burger buns toasted
- Your favorite turkey burger toppings: lettuce tomato, red onion, avocado, pickles, etc.
Make the burger mix
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently—overworking the meat makes dry burgers.
Form patties
Divide the turkey mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each into a thin patty. Place about 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella in the center of 4 of them. Top each cheese-filled patty with another plain patty and pinch the edges to seal well. Gently flatten into burger shapes.
Preheat your grill or skillet
Drizzle olive oil over the patties or on the grill/skillet surface. Heat to medium-high.
Cook the burgers
Grill or sear the burgers for 4–5 minutes per side or until a thermometer reads 165°F internally. Avoid pressing down while cooking—let that cheesy center stay molten!
Rest and build
Let the burgers rest for 2–3 minutes before assembling. Toast your buns and layer up with your favorite turkey burger toppings like creamy avocado, crunchy lettuce, and a tangy sauce of your choice.
Pair It With
These mozzarella-stuffed turkey burgers pair beautifully with sweet potato fries or a chilled cucumber salad for something light. If you’re craving a little heat, go full-on buffalo turkey burger mode with a drizzle of buffalo sauce and a side of celery sticks with blue cheese dressing.
FAQs
1. What type of turkey should I use?
Go for 93% lean ground turkey. It has just enough fat to keep your burgers juicy, making it ideal for turkey smash burgers or grilled turkey burger recipes.
2. Can I make these into sliders?
Absolutely. Just divide your mixture into smaller portions and reduce the cook time slightly for bite-sized turkey burger sliders.
3. What if I don’t have mozzarella?
No worries—cheddar, pepper jack, or even gouda would also melt well and add a unique twist to your amazing turkey burgers.
4. Is this a good turkey burger recipe if I’m avoiding eggs?
Yes! This is one of those turkey burger recipes no egg required. The Worcestershire and mustard add plenty of moisture and binding power.
5. Can I meal prep these?
Definitely. Shape the patties ahead of time and store them (uncooked) in the fridge for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer. Cook from thawed for best results.
