Apple Cinnamon Glazed Turkey Patties
Description
These Apple Cinnamon Glazed Turkey Patties are a delicious combination of savory and sweet, making them a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Juicy, seasoned turkey patties are pan-seared until golden brown, then topped with a rich homemade apple cinnamon glaze made with tender diced apples, butter, garlic, and warm spices. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, coating each patty with a glossy sauce that’s packed with flavor. Every bite offers a balance of juicy meat, soft apples, and subtle sweetness enhanced by cinnamon and a touch of honey. Despite tasting like a gourmet meal, this recipe comes together in about 35 minutes using simple pantry ingredients. Serve these patties with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal everyone will love.
Ingredients For the Turkey Patties
- 1½ lbs (680g) ground turkey
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Apple Cinnamon Glaze
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Extra cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Divide into six equal portions and shape into oval patties.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Apple Glaze
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and cook for 4–5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the turkey patties to the skillet and spoon the apple glaze generously over each one. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the patties to serving plates and spoon extra apple glaze over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Tips & Notes
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples hold their shape best during cooking.
- Avoid overmixing the turkey mixture to keep the patties tender.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a subtle kick.
- For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat to keep the patties moist.
Q&A
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes. Ground chicken works perfectly and provides a similar texture and flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the patties and glaze separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.
Can I freeze the patties?
Yes. Freeze the cooked patties without the glaze for up to 2 months. Prepare the glaze fresh for the best flavor.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, steamed green beans, buttered rice, or a crisp garden salad all complement these patties beautifully.
Servings
- Serves: 6
- Serving Size: 1 turkey patty with apple glaze
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 480mg