Doin' Some Cookin'... Italian Burger Patties

Little Man can eat burgers for every meal if I let him, because I don't whenever I give him a "kid's choice" night when preparing the week's menu he'll always request a burger night.

Before pulling a fast one on him and switching it up from a plain beef patty I'll always ask if he's interested in trying something new. I told him about a recipe I had found for Italian Meatballs but figured we could smash them down and they would make for a delicious burger patty. He didn't hesitate to say "okay".

(Served mine over greens to cut down on the carbs since I'm trying to make the healthiest choices possible. Definitely not the best way to eat the burger patty. Next time I'd serve it up with some mashed potatoes. I know, I know.)

He loved these burger patties so much that he requested a cold Italian Burger Patty sandwich the next day. To be honest, it tasted exactly like meatloaf but instead of ketchup these have tomato paste in them. I toasted some bread, spread some mayo and ketchup (his request), and put the burger patty between the slices of toast. He said his lunch was amazing and begged to have the last burger patty for dinner that night.

How can I say no when he likes something I made that much? Exactly. I can't.

Italian Burger Patties

Adapted From: Thriving Home

Makes 4 Patties

Stars of the Show:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp milk
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• dried parsley, to taste
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

And Action:

With clean hands combine all ingredients in a large bowl until incorporated. 

Divide the meat mixture into four equal portions and flatten into patties. 

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a tbsp of olive oil and add the patties. Cook 4-6 minutes each side depending on how well done you like your patties. Enjoy!

Doin' Some Cookin'... Bacon Turkey Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Little Man can eat a cheeseburger for every meal if I'd let him. If I wasn't concerned about his health or having CPS called on me I may consider.

But, I'm not that mom.

(All I can think of when I see this photo is how perfect this meatloaf would be for a Halloween dinner party cause it looks like flesh and blood.)

It's no surprise he asked for a cheeseburger night for part of this weeks' menu. While browsing some of my favorite blogs I came across this recipe for a healthy Bacon Turkey Cheeseburger Meatloaf and knew I had to give this one a try.

This meatloaf did not disappoint. It has all of the flavors of a cheeseburger and even though it's made with ground turkey it is incredibly moist.

Little Man being a cheeseburger fanatic ate every bite of this and agreed it was make again worthy. It's an especially hearty meal when paired with mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli. We ate off of the leftovers for three days. So good!

Bacon Turkey Cheeseburger Meatloaf

Adapted From: Organize Yourself Skinny

Makes 6 Servings

Stars of the Show:

• 1/2 slice whole wheat bread
• 1 tbsp milk
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tsp hamburger seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 1/8 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon

And Action:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 

In a small bowl mix together the ketchup and mustard. 

In a large bowl mix together the bread and milk mixing it together to create a paste. Add the ground turkey, seasonings, Parmesan cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, 1/2 of the ketchup mixture, and cheddar cheese. 

Mix until evenly distributed.

Spray a baking dish with cooking spray. Place the meat mixture in the middle and form a loaf. 

Spread the rest of the ketchup mixture on top and then lay the bacon over the loaf tucking it under the loaf if needed.

Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 55 minutes. 

Turn the oven on broil and broil 3-5 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. 

Remove from the oven and let sit 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Doin' Some Cookin'... Chicken Patties

Trying to fill up an 8 year old who is going through a growth spurt has been a bit of a challenge. Not to mention one who is also a selective eater more and more these days. Throw swim class on top of it and the boy is ravenous when we get home.

So I needed something quick and easy to make that would fill him up and fuel my boot camp workout. Chances are you already have the ingredients for making these Chicken Patties on hand too since it is only really two ingredients... ground chicken and eggs.

You can get as creative as you want with add-ins and spices. I stuck to the recipe for our first try but quickly regretted not adding in some onion, bacon, or cheese. The possibilities really are endless. Thinking jalapeño cheddar right now.

These Chicken Patties were a huge hit in my household and the leftovers were gone the very next day. That is rare. Usually noses get turned up at the idea of leftovers and sandwiches are made instead. I'll get burnt out on being the only one eating leftovers for three days straight and end up pitching whatever is left.

The Chicken Patties can be served on their own or you can do as we did and served them between whole wheat buns. Little Man requested next time making California chicken "burgers" and was bummed there was no avocado available.

Chicken Patties

Adapted From: Healthy Recipes

Makes 8 Patties

Stars of the Show:

• 1 lb chicken breasts
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp cajun seasoning
• 1/4 cup olive oil

And Action:

Combine all ingredients except the olive oil in a food processor and pulse until well combined and chicken is smooth.

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 

Drop a 1/4 cup of the mixture into the hot oil and gently flatten into a round patty. I was able to fit three patties into my skillet at a time. 

Cook the patties until crisp and golden brown about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Doin' Some Cookin'... Hamburger Salad

Burger cravings have come and gone throughout this round of Whole30 so I was ecstatic when I came across this recipe for Hamburger Salad and could finally satisfy the craving.

This salad has all of the burger flavor without the bun. Pickles, tomatoes, red onions, and seasoned beef gets topped on romaine lettuce and then drizzled with "special" sauce. This salad can be easily adapted to suit your taste. Add any "toppings" you enjoy on your burgers. Next time I may sprinkle with some toasted sesame seeds for the missing "bun" taste, and add some bacon and avocado slices.

Little Man actually exclaimed that this is a "must make again!" recipe. He has always turned up his nose to salad. No, he didn't have all the same burger ingredients as me but then again he likes his burgers with nothing but lettuce.

He's right, this is a "must make again" recipe. It's hearty, meaty, absolutely satisfying, and with an early Spring here in Texas lots of iced green tea and salads are on the menu, especially this one.

Hamburger Salad

Adapted From: PaleoLeap

Makes 4 Servings

Stars of the Show for the Salad:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 red onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 dill pickle spears, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• sea salt and pepper, to taste

Stars of the Show for the Dressing:

• 4 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp white balsamic vinegar
• 1 dill pickle spear, chopped
• 1 tbsp red onion, chopped

And Action:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add beef and any seasonings you use for your burger patties (I love using a slider spice mix and adding the garlic cloves and 1 tbsp onion powder). Stir the beef frequently until cooked and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. 

Remove meat from the stove and allow to cool. 

In a bowl, combine the ingredients for the dress and mix well.

Combine the salad ingredients in individual bowls (in case of leftovers to avoid wilted lettuce) and drizzle with dressing. 

Doin' Some Cookin'... Jalapeno Chicken Burgers

Whole30 and Super Bowl Sunday just don't mix. Or so I thought.

Wanting to make Game Day special for Little Man I let him pick his menu. His necessities were a double cheeseburger with guacamole, Nacho Cheese Doritos, french fries, ice cream, and hot chocolate.

I wanted a burger too so I researched Whole30 approved recipes and found this recipe for Jalapeño Chicken Burgers.

These are the most flavorful chicken burgers I have ever made spiced from jalapeños, red onions, and spices. I even ground my own chicken. Oh em gee! No joke, the best chicken burgers ever!!! These burgers are not dry at all and I prefer chicken to turkey but turkey could be substituted if you prefer.

Served a grilled patty with a side of guacamole and mango salsa. I can't get over how delicious this meal was. You too will forget about the bread. Trust me.

Don't feel like I missed out on anything and can't wait to enjoy the leftovers for lunch and dinner tomorrow.

I will need to remember this recipe for a Summer get together. I know these would impress.

Jalapeno Chicken Burgers

Adapted From: Once A Month Meals

Makes 4 Servings

Stars of the Show:

• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, boneless, skinless
• 2/3 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes

And Action:

Ground chicken in a food processor and pulse until desired consistency. I prefer mine smooth. Add remaining ingredients and pulse until well combined. 

Form the chicken mixture into 4 equal patties. 

Grill over medium-high heat flipping when the bottom of burger no longer sticks to grate. Continue cooking until cooked through. Enjoy!

Doin' Some Cookin'... Juicy Turkey Burgers

I would have never thought to add veggies to a turkey burger patty but so glad I gave this one a try. These are definitely the best turkey burgers I've made to date.

Little Man loved them so much and was not turned off when he found out they were filled with carrots. He ate every bite of his. I was impressed.

These burgers come together quickly and make for an easy weeknight meal leaving enough time to get in an after dinner walk. Make sure you make a couple extra for leftovers or to take to work because they reheat well. 

Juicy Turkey Burgers

Adapted From: Paula Deen Cuts The Fat: 250 Favorite Recipes All Lightened Up

Makes 4 Servings

Stars of the Show:

• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
• salt and pepper, to taste
• garlic powder, to taste
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 4 whole wheat hamburger buns
• tomato, lettuce, and avocado for topping

And Action:

In a large bowl, combine carrot, tomato paste, onion powder, mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add turkey and fold into the mixture. Use your hands to form 4 equal size patties. 

Grease a cast iron grill pan with cooking spray. Heat the pan over medium-high heat. Sear the burgers until browned, about 7 minutes on one side and 5 minutes on the other side.

Serve on whole wheat buns and top with tomato, lettuce, and avocado. Enjoy!

Doin' Some Cookin'... Turkey Burgers

I know what you're thinking when you hear turkey burgers... dry and flavorless. Well, not these!

Kept mine simple and dressed it with a couple tablespoons of salsa. Quick and delicious dinner.

Turkey Burgers

Adapted From: The Beachbody Blog

Makes 4 Patties

Stars of the Show:

• 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup lowfat buttermilk
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 2 tbsp onion powder
• dried parsley, to taste
• 1 tsp dijon mustard
• dash of worcestershire sauce
• ground black pepper, to taste

And Action:

Combine breadcrumbs and buttermilk in a bowl; mix well and let sit for 10 minutes.

Preheat grill pan over high heat.

Add turkey and remaining ingredients to breadcrumb mixture, mix well. 

Shape into 4 patties.

Grill 5-6 minutes on each side until patties are no longer pink on the inside. Enjoy!

Doin' Some Cookin'... Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

I'll never forget the first time I had Greek food. It was a gyro from the mall. I followed my older brother's lead and copied his order. It came with fries and a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. That sauce was crave worthy and I'd look for excuses to head to the mall just so I could swing over and get that meal. If I wasn't in public I would have licked that sauce cup clean.

I should have learned how to make gyros and tzatziki. I could have saved a lot of money and weight from my hips, waist, thighs, and, and. 

A coworker dropped off a stack of food magazines at my desk one day and that night I took them home and set them on the ottoman to flip through later but Little Man beat me to them. He came across a recipe, ripped it out of the magazine, and requested that we make these Mediterranean Turkey Burgers as soon as possible. I posted the recipe on our family calendar and added the ingredients to our weekly grocery list. 

We made a plan to make these burgers for dinner tonight and I'm sorry I made him wait so long because they are amazing. Of course these burgers aren't authentically Greek but they have a mix of flavors that are quintessentially Greek. Homemade tzatziki sauce adds moisture and tang to these burgers. They are easy to make, incredibly delicious, healthy, and protein packed. I can't wait to make these again. 

Since I finished all my dinner it's now time for dessert and getting cozy on the couch to watch the movie, Get Him To The Greek. See, I told you I'm a sucker for all things "Mediterranean". Ha!

Mediterranean Turkey Burgers

Adapted from: Food Network Magazine July/August 2014

Makes 4 Servings

Stars of the Show:

• 1 (7 oz) container nonfat plain greek yogurt (about 3/4 cup)
• 1/3 cup black pepper crumbled feta cheese (about 2 oz)
• 1 cucumber, seeds removed and cubed
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• sea salt and black pepper
• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 sesame hamburger buns or potato rolls, split and toasted
• lettuce and tomato slices, for topping, optional
• potato chips, for serving, optional

And Action:

Combine yogurt, feta, cucumber, mint, half of the garlic, few grinds of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Refrigerate until serving.

Combine the turkey, remaining garlic, few grinds of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Form into 4 (4 oz) patties. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then add the patties and cook until browned and cooked through, 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.

Spread the yogurt sauce on the buns, top with turkey burger, lettuce and tomato, if desired. Serve with potato chips. Enjoy!