Forktionary

Bento Balls Aka French Hamburgers Recipe

These adorable Bento Balls, aka French Hamburgers, are a game-changer for your next outdoor adventure! Inspired by Japanese bento boxes, these moist and flavorful turkey patties are easy to pack and even easier to eat. No messy condiments needed – the delicious basting sauce adds incredible flavor while keeping things fuss-free. Perfect for hiking, biking, or any outdoor activity with the family. Get ready for rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 70 mins
Calories 437.3 kcal
Protein 57g
Rating 3.3 (3 Reviews)
Bento Balls Aka French Hamburgers 101

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Bento Balls Aka French Hamburgers

  • 1 cup fine dry breadcrumbs
  • 4 ounces Havarti with Dill (shredded)
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • cooking spray

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How to Make Bento Balls Aka French Hamburgers

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease with cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup breadcrumbs, 4 ounces Havarti cheese (shredded), 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish, 1 tablespoon dried minced onion, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 cup cottage cheese, and 1 large egg.
  3. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to soften.
  4. Add 1 pound ground turkey to the bowl and mix gently until just combined. The mixture will be soft.
  5. Shape the mixture into 8-10 balls, slightly flattening them into patty shapes suitable for your bento box.
  6. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes.
  8. Meanwhile, prepare the basting sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons melted butter, 2 tablespoons ketchup, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
  9. Carefully flip the patties and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Patties will cook faster if made smaller. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
  10. Approximately 10 minutes before the patties are fully cooked, baste one side with the sauce. Return to the oven for 5 minutes.
  11. Flip the patties, baste the other side, and bake for the remaining 5 minutes until fully cooked.
  12. Let the patties cool completely before packing them into your bento boxes. Enjoy your delicious and convenient lunch on the go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

50 g

Sugar

31g

Fat

64g

Carbs

7g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Main Courses Lunch Main Dish / Dinner Poultry Turkey Recipes Asian Japanese Healthy

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation Lunch Asian Japanese Dietary 4 Hours Or Less