Grill Lighter
By Angela Denstad Stigeler
This summer’s grilling season only recently became official and already I’ve decided to lighten it up. But it’s less out of any desire to save calories than simply enjoying a surprisingly delicious meal. A poultry version of the famous Juicy Lucy, this is a cheese-filled burger my kids have playfully named the Turkey Lurkey. The name fits perfectly: good sharp cheddar is lurking inside each flavorful patty. You can get creative and tuck other surprise flavors in with the cheese, like crumbled bacon or freshly snipped chives. However you decide to fill your burgers, you’ll likely find some eager diners lurking as you light—and lighten—the grill.
Turkey Lurkeys
2 pounds ground turkey
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
2-3 ounces aged sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
6 hamburger buns
6 tablespoons mayonnaise
iceberg lettuce, sliced beefsteak tomatoes, and Kosher dill pickles, for serving
Place the ground turkey in a large mixing bowl and season it with salt and pepper. Add the mustard and work the meat with your hands to incorporate the seasoning. Divide the meat into 6 equal parts and form patties out of each portion, making a well in the center of each one. Fill the well of each burger with approximately1 tablespoon grated cheese. Then carefully form the burger around the cheese, making sure the filling is completely covered with the meat.
Meanwhile, light a grill and brush the grate with the olive oil. Cook over medium heat a few minutes on each side until cooked through. Do not press down on the burgers as they cook.
Toast the buns on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking, if desired. Spread a tablespoon of mayonnaise on each bun. Serve each burger on a bun with lettuce, tomato and pickles, as desired.
