Grilled Turkey Burgers with Ranch Seasoning

Grilled Turkey Burgers with Ranch Seasoning

Strawberry Jargarita

Strawberry Jargarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita

Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Orange Creamsicle Margarita

Orange Creamsicle Margarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Cherry Margarita

Italian Cherry Margarita

Prepration Time
Total Time
Prepration Time
Total Time
Serving

Ingradients

For the Turkey Patties:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (93% lean recommended for juiciness)
  • 2 tbsp homemade or store-bought ranch seasoning mix (see note below)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg white (optional, for binding)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp onion powder
For Assembly (Optional):
  • 4 whole wheat, brioche, or gluten-free burger buns
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp ranch dressing
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Sliced tomato
  • Sliced red onion
  • Pickles

Directions

  1. Prepare the Patties:

    • In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, ranch seasoning, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, onion powder, and egg white (if using).
    • Gently mix with hands or a spoon — do not overmix, or burgers will be tough.
    • Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into ¾-inch thick patties. Press a slight dimple in the center to prevent bulging during cooking.
  2. Chill (Optional):

    • Refrigerate patties for 10–15 minutes to help them hold shape on the grill.
  3. Preheat Grill:

    • Heat grill to medium-high (375–400°F / 190–200°C).
    • Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Burgers:

    • Place patties on the grill and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Avoid pressing down — this keeps them juicy.
  5. Toast Buns (Optional):

    • During the last minute of grilling, place buns cut-side down on the grill to toast lightly.
  6. Assemble & Serve:

    • Spread mayo or ranch on buns.
    • Add burger patty and toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles.
    • Serve immediately with sweet potato fries, grilled veggies, or a side salad.

Pros:

  1. High in Protein (26g): Supports muscle health and satiety — great for active adults and seniors.
  2. Lean & Lower in Fat: Ground turkey has less saturated fat than beef — better for heart health.
  3. Flavorful with Ranch Seasoning: Herbs and spices add big flavor without extra calories.
  4. Gluten-Free & Low-Carb (patty only): Naturally suitable for keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets.
  5. Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for weeknight dinners.

Cons:

  1. Can Be Dry: Turkey is leaner than beef; overcooking dries it out.
  2. Lower Iron Content: Turkey has less heme iron than red meat — may not suit those with anemia.
  3. Store-Bought Ranch Mix Often High in Sodium: Check labels or use homemade.
  4. Bland if Under-Seasoned: Needs bold seasoning to match beef’s richness.
  5. Not Suitable for Raw Diets: Must be fully cooked to 165°F — no rare option.

Suitability for Aged People (65+ years)

Highly Suitable With Simple Tweaks:

  • High-Quality Protein (26g): Helps maintain muscle mass and strength.
  • Lower Saturated Fat: Better for heart and vascular health.
  • Soft Texture: Juicy when not overcooked — easy to chew.

🔹 Recommendations for Seniors:

  • Use 93% lean turkey (not extra-lean) to retain moisture.
  • Add 1 tbsp grated zucchini or apple to the mix for tenderness and flavor.
  • Serve on a soft bun or lettuce wrap if chewing is difficult.
  • Pair with mashed sweet potatoes or steamed carrots for balanced nutrition.
  • Use low-sodium ranch seasoning if managing blood pressure.

Who Should Avoid or Modify This Recipe?

Condition
Reason
Suggested Modification
Iron Deficiency / Anemia
Turkey has less heme iron than red meat.
Pair with vitamin C-rich sides (e.g., bell peppers) to boost absorption.
Kidney Disease
High phosphorus and potassium from turkey.
Avoid or consult a renal dietitian.
Lactose Intolerance
Ranch seasoning/dressing may contain dairy (buttermilk powder).
Use dairy-free ranch mix or seasoning only.
GERD / Acid Reflux
High-fat toppings (mayo, cheese) may trigger symptoms.
Skip mayo; use mustard and fresh veggies.
Diabetes
Lean protein is safe; watch bun choice.
Serve in lettuce wrap or low-carb bun.
Difficulty Chewing
Burgers can be firm.
Chop patty into small pieces or serve as a salad toppin

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient
Amount
% Daily Value
Calories
210
Total Fat
11g
14%
Saturated Fat
3g
15%
Trans Fat
0.2g
Cholesterol
95mg
32%
Sodium
480mg
21%
Total Carbohydrate
2g
1%
Dietary Fiber
0g
0%
Total Sugars
1g
Protein
26g
52%
Vitamin A
120 IU
2%
Vitamin C
2mg
2%
Calcium
30mg
2%
Iron
1.5mg
8%
Potassium
440mg
9%