Growing up, the holidays were always a magical time in our family. The kitchen would come alive with the fragrant aromas of roasting meats, freshly baked pies, and, of course, the tangy sweetness of cranberries simmering on the stove. My grandmother was the heart of these gatherings, effortlessly weaving together dishes that felt like a warm hug in every bite. One of my fondest memories is watching her prepare the turkey, carefully seasoning it and stuffing it with love. The table would be adorned with all the fixings, but it was always the cranberry sauce that stole the show—a recipe passed down through generations, slightly tweaked by each new cook.
Fast forward to a few years ago, when I found myself in a cozy bistro in the heart of Boston during a crisp autumn weekend. It was the kind of place where time seemed to slow down, where you could sip on mulled cider and watch the leaves dance outside the window. That day, I decided to order a turkey burger, not expecting anything out of the ordinary. But when the burger arrived, piled high with melted brie and a cranberry chutney that was both tart and sweet, I was instantly transported back to those holiday dinners. It was a revelation—a familiar flavor in an entirely new form.
That experience sparked an idea. Why not bring together the best of both worlds? I took my grandmother’s cranberry sauce and my love for that Boston burger and created something truly special: the Cranberry Brie Turkey Burger. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern flair, with juicy ground turkey patties infused with cranberries for a burst of tangy sweetness in every bite. The brie, with its creamy richness, melts into the patties, creating a luxurious contrast. And all of this is nestled between toasted buns, making it the ultimate comfort food for any season.
This burger is more than just a meal; it’s a trip down memory lane, a reminder of the warmth and love that comes with sharing food with those we cherish. Whether you’re looking to add a unique twist to your holiday menu or simply want a delicious, hearty dinner, this Cranberry Brie Turkey Burger is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
How to Make Cranberry Brie Turkey Burger
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Ingredients
- 16 ounces ground turkey (85% lean)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 cup frozen cranberries
- 6 ounces brie cheese (cut into 16 slices, ¼-inch thick)
- 4 hamburger buns
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, panko breadcrumbs, garlic salt, onion powder, and chopped parsley. Gently fold in the frozen cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Shape the mixture into four equal-sized patties and place them on a small baking sheet. Chill the patties in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to help them firm up.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Place 4 slices of brie cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Toast the hamburger buns, then assemble the burgers by placing the patties on the buns. Add lettuce or any additional toppings as desired, and serve immediately.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover turkey patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through before serving.
Cooking Tips
For added flavor, consider mixing in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of apple cider vinegar into the turkey mixture. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can coat the patties with additional panko breadcrumbs before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These cranberry brie turkey burgers pair well with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp apple slaw. For a gourmet touch, drizzle with a balsamic glaze or serve with a side of cranberry sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have brie cheese, you can substitute with camembert or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Ground chicken can also be used in place of turkey if desired.
Seasonal Variations
During the summer months, fresh cranberries can be used in place of frozen ones. You can also try adding sliced fresh figs or apples in the fall for a seasonal twist.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (brie cheese) and gluten (panko breadcrumbs). For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. If dairy is a concern, substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
FAQ:
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh cranberries can be used, but they may add a slightly more tart flavor compared to frozen ones.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers for the panko.
Can I grill the patties instead of cooking them in a skillet?
Yes, these patties can be grilled. Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Chilling the patties before cooking helps them hold together better. Also, avoid overmixing the turkey mixture, as this can make the patties too soft.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to cook them.
What toppings go well with these burgers?
Lettuce, tomato, red onion, and a light spread of mayonnaise or cranberry sauce are all great choices to complement the flavors of the burger.
Cranberry Brie Turkey Burger
Ingredients
- 16 ounces ground turkey 85% lean
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 cup frozen cranberries
- 6 ounces brie cheese cut into 16 slices, ¼-inch thick
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
- Mix the ground turkey with Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, panko breadcrumbs, garlic salt, onion powder, chopped parsley, and frozen cranberries.
- Shape the mixture into four patties and set them on a small baking sheet. Chill the patties in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the patties in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Add 4 slices of brie cheese on top of each patty.
- Assemble the burgers on toasted buns and add lettuce or other desired toppings.
