These Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers are a tasty twist on classic burgers! The sweet honey and spicy jalapeños mix perfectly with juicy turkey meat for a fun flavor burst.
The creamy avocado sauce adds a smooth touch that makes every bite enjoyable. I love how easy it is to make, and they make a great dinner that’s sure to impress! 🍔🥑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, ground turkey is perfect for these burgers. If you’re looking for a different option, ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives work well too!
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños add great heat. For milder flavors, ditch the seeds. If you can’t find jalapeños, consider using poblano or banana peppers as a substitute.
Honey: This ingredient gives a wonderful sweetness. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be used instead.
Avocado: Essential for the creamy sauce! If you’re out of avocados, a simple mashed banana or a store-bought creamy dressing can work in a pinch, but they’ll change the flavor significantly.
Cilantro: Adds brightness and freshness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be a nice swap, though it has a different taste.
How Do You Make Sure the Burgers Are Juicy and Cooked Right?
Cooking turkey burgers just right can be tricky, but following a few steps helps. First, when you mix the turkey with other ingredients, do it gently to avoid tough patties.
- Use medium-high heat for cooking. This helps to brown the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Always check the internal temperature; 165°F (75°C) is the safe point for turkey.
- Rest the burgers for a few minutes after cooking. This lets the juices settle back into the meat for a juicy bite.
After resting, go ahead and assemble your burgers with toppings, and enjoy the balance of flavors!
Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for milder heat)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (reserve some for topping)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Corn Jalapeño Salsa Topping:
- 1 cup fresh or thawed corn kernels
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of ½ lime
- Salt, to taste
Additional:
- Soft burger buns (preferably brioche)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take approximately 20 minutes to prepare and about 15 to 20 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Get ready to enjoy some tasty burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped jalapeño, honey, minced garlic, chopped red onion, cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined—don’t overwork the meat, or your burgers might become tough!
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal parts based on your preferred burger size. Shape each part into a burger patty, making sure they are fairly even in thickness for even cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust any seasonings, then set aside.
4. Prepare the Corn Jalapeño Salsa:
In a small bowl, stir together the corn kernels, thinly sliced jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and let it sit for a moment to let the flavors mingle.
5. Cook the Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and they have a beautiful golden-brown crust.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they turn golden and warm.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the top and bottom buns. Place a turkey burger on the bottom bun and generously spoon over some corn jalapeño salsa. Add fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and flavor, then finish with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve these delightful burgers right away with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy every bite of these flavorful Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with the creamy avocado sauce and fresh salsa! 🍔🥑
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
Can I Make the Burgers Spicier?
Yes! To amp up the heat, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture. Additionally, serve with sliced fresh jalapeños on top for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Can I Freeze the Patties Before Cooking?
Yes! You can shape the patties and freeze them prior to cooking. Just place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time.
