Easy Turkey Parmesan Burgers

Tired of the same old turkey burgers? Mix it up with this Italian-inspired version! Marinara sauce, both in the meat and drizzled over the top, adds great flavor and helps keep the burgers moist, as does the delectable topping of melted mozzarella cheese. I prefer to eat these open-faced, with a fork and knife, but the kids like it burger style. And they taste just as great with toasted hamburger buns instead of sourdough bread, if you are so inclined.

Ingredients

Directions

1. Place turkey, salt, pepper, onion, garlic and 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix together well, using a spoon, or your hands.
2. Form the mixture into 5 half-inch thick patties. The meat will be sticky, so try to avoid over-handling it. Place patties on waxed paper and set aside.
3. Mince 5 leaves of basil and place in a shallow bowl. Add breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese and toss to coat.
4. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large non-stick skillet. Coat each patty on both sides with the breadcrumb mixture, gently brushing off any excess.
5. Place patties in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, until they are a dark golden brown.
6. Flip burgers using a spatula and top each with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Cook for 3-4 minutes more, or until the burgers are cooked through and the cheese is melted.
7. Heat remaining marinara sauce in a small sauce pan or in the microwave. Place each burger on a slice of toasted sourdough bread. Top with warmed marinara sauce, a basil leaf or two and lettuce. Eat open-faced or top with an additional slice of bread. Serve immediately.