These turkey burgers are packed with flavor! The sweet honey and spicy jalapeño make a perfect team, while the creamy avocado sauce adds a cool touch. Yum!
I love to grill these on sunny days. They’re a hit at BBQs, and the creamy sauce? Total game changer! Just try not to eat them all at once. They’re that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Ground turkey is lean and holds flavors well. If you’re looking for something richer, ground chicken or beef can work too. Just remember, cooking times might change slightly.
Jalapeño: These add spice! If you’re sensitive to heat, use half a jalapeño or switch to a milder pepper like green bell pepper. For more heat, keep the seeds in or add a dash of chili powder.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness and helps brown the burgers. You can swap it for maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer. A touch of brown sugar also works in a pinch!
Avocado: For the creamy sauce, ripe avocados are best. If you can’t find avocados, try using store-bought guacamole, but be sure to taste as it might be seasoned already!
How Do I Make Sure My Turkey Burgers are Juicy and Flavorful?
It’s common for turkey burgers to dry out if overcooked. To keep them juicy, follow these tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat—gently combine ingredients just until mixed.
- Form patties that are a little thicker in the center; they’ll cook more evenly.
- Rest them briefly after cooking, which lets the juices redistribute.
Monitoring the cooking time is key; aim for about 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping and Serving:
- ½ cup fresh corn kernels (can use grilled or raw)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- 4-6 brioche or sandwich buns, toasted
Time Needed:
The total time for this recipe is about 40 minutes. You’ll spend approximately 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and forming the patties, then around 15 minutes cooking them, plus an additional 10 minutes for assembling. So, in less than an hour, you can enjoy delicious homemade turkey burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely diced jalapeño, honey, minced garlic, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the burgers tender.
2. Form Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty approximately ¾ inch thick. Place the formed patties on a plate or tray. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, add the flesh of the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt or sour cream, lime juice, garlic clove, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside for later.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your grill. Once hot, add the turkey patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Avoid pressing down on the burgers while cooking to maintain their juiciness.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the brioche or sandwich buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cooked turkey burger on top, followed by a spoonful of fresh corn, diced red onion, sliced jalapeño, and cilantro. Top it off with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Serve the burgers immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your deliciously juicy turkey burgers with that perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors!
Dig in and savor every bite! Enjoy these mouthwatering turkey burgers at your next meal! 🍔
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well and has a similar texture. Just keep in mind that it may have a slightly different flavor. Follow the same cooking procedures to ensure it’s cooked through.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before dicing. Alternatively, use a smaller amount or replace it with a milder pepper, like a green bell pepper. For extra heat, consider adding chili flakes or using two jalapeños!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The creamy avocado sauce can also be stored separately for up to 2 days.
Can I Freeze the Patties Before Cooking?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
