Roast Dinner-Style Turkey Burgers
All the comfort of a Sunday roast, midweek-friendly
Calories: ~170–180 per adult serving (2 burgers only)
Time: 20–25 minutes
Style: High-protein • Family-friendly • Freezer-friendly
These turkey burgers are juicy, herby and savoury - tasting like a roast dinner without the long cooking time. Perfect with potatoes or chips and veg, or tucked into a roll. Cook in the pan or in the air fryer!
Why this works for mums
Lean protein without dryness
Familiar roast flavours kids recognise
Quick to cook, minimal prep
Easy to batch cook and freeze
Ingredients (Serves 4 adults + little ones)
500g turkey mince (5–7% fat works best)
1 small onion, very finely diced
1 carrot, grated
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary (or mixed herbs)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional – add after baby portions)
1 tbsp olive oil (pan method only)
Method
Add turkey mince, onion, carrot, garlic and herbs to a bowl.
Mix gently until just combined.
If cooking for babies or toddlers, shape and set their burgers aside now before adding Worcestershire sauce.
Add Worcestershire sauce to the remaining mix and stir lightly. Season with salt and pepper.
Shape into 8 small burgers.
Frying Pan Method
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
Add burgers and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Air Fryer Method
Preheat air fryer to 180°C.
Lightly spray the basket or burgers with oil.
Cook for 12–14 minutes, turning halfway, until cooked through and lightly golden.
Baby, Toddler & Weaning Notes
No added salt
Allow burgers to cool fully before serving
Break into pieces or mash for younger children
Excellent finger food for baby-led weaning
Freeze cooked burgers individually
Easy Swaps
Turkey → chicken or pork mince
Add finely chopped mushrooms for extra juiciness
Serve with mash or chips and roast veg or in a soft roll
Add gravy or cranberry sauce (my favourite!) for adults at the table