This innovative take on America's timeless favorite, topped with melted mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil, is sure to be a hit at any backyard BBQ or cookout this summer.
YIELDS:4 serving(s)PREP TIME:10 minsTOTAL TIME:35 mins CAL/SERV766
INGREDIENTS:1/3 c. mayonnaise3 Tbsp. store-bought or homemade pesto1 lb. ground turkey (preferably 93% or 94% lean)1 large egg, lightly beaten1/4 c. finely chopped fresh basil, plus 12 large leaves1/2 oz. Parmesan, finely grated (about 1/4 c.)1 tsp. garlic powder1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more2 Tbsp. neutral oil, divided4 (1/2"-thick) slices fresh mozzarella (about 2 oz. each), divided4 hamburger buns, toasted4 large tomato slices4 tsp. balsamic glaze
Step 1: Mix the pesto and mayonnaise together in a small bowl. Put aside.
DIRECTIONS:
Step 2: Using clean hands or a flexible spatula, thoroughly incorporate the turkey, egg, Parmesan, chopped basil, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. Separate ingredients into 4 parts, then form each into a circular patty that is about 1/2" thick.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a sizable metal or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place two patties in the skillet, evenly spaced apart, and cook for about three minutes, or until the bottoms of the burgers start to brown. After flipping the burgers, cover the pan and cook for a further two minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer put into the center reads 155°.
Step 4: Uncover the skillet and top each burger with one slice of mozzarella. Cover and simmer for an additional minute or so, or until the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked through (an instant-read thermometer should read 165°). Move the hamburgers to a platter. Repeat with patties, mozzarella, and the remaining 1 tablespoon oil.
Step 5: Spread the bottom buns with pesto mayo. Place a piece of tomato and a hamburger on top; liberally salt and pepper the tomatoes. Add a balsamic glaze drizzle and sprinkle basil leaves over top. Burgers with top buns close together.