Dinner

Apple Cheddar Turkey Burgers Recipe

ByLily Monroe January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Introduction

Apple Cheddar Turkey Burgers offer a delightful twist on the classic burger with juicy turkey, sweet apple, and melted cheddar cheese. This recipe combines fresh ingredients and a touch of maple mustard for a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

A close-up of a sandwich with a soft brown bun on top and bottom, the bottom bun showing a slightly toasted texture. On the bottom bun rests a thick, juicy burger patty with a light beige color and bits of green herbs visible. On top of the patty are two round slices of cooked apple, slightly browned at the edges, and over the apple slices, there is melted yellow cheddar cheese dripping down the sides. A generous amount of creamy light brown sauce covers the cheese and apples, dripping slowly onto the surface below. The sandwich is placed on a metal tray, set against a white marbled background, with three green apples blurred in the back. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground turkey (93/7%)
1 apple, shredded
4 green onions, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
4 buns, toasted
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, use your hands to combine the ground turkey, shredded apple, green onions, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overwork the meat. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each into a patty.
Step 2: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray. Add the patties and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through.
Step 3: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil to help the cheese melt.
Step 4: While the burgers cook, whisk together the maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard to create the maple dijon sauce. Slice an additional apple for topping and toast the buns.
Step 5: Serve the turkey burgers on toasted buns, topped with apple slices and a spoonful of the maple dijon mustard sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the turkey mixture.
Try swapping cheddar cheese for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Use a crisp apple variety like Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Fuji for sweetness.
Grilling the patties instead of pan-frying adds a smoky flavor perfect for summer.

Storage

Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Keep buns separate to avoid sogginess if storing for longer.

How to Serve

The image shows a cheeseburger with four main layers stacked on a white bun set on a white marbled texture. The first bottom layer is fresh green lettuce with ruffled edges, resting on the bottom bun that looks soft and slightly toasted. On top of the lettuce is a thick grilled beef patty with a slightly charred texture. Covering the patty is a bright yellow melted cheddar cheese that softly oozes over the sides. Above the cheese is a thin round slice of red apple, topped with a smooth, creamy light sauce dripping gently over it. The top bun, a shiny golden-brown, leans at an angle on the side, partially covering the burger. In the background, a glass bowl with more sauce and a spoon is visible along with an apple. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute and will yield a similar flavor and texture in the burger.

How do I prevent the patties from drying out?

Be careful not to overmix the turkey mixture and avoid overcooking. Adding the shredded apple helps keep the patties moist and adds natural sweetness.