These tasty honey jalapeño turkey burgers are a fun twist on a classic! The sweet and spicy flavors mix perfectly, and the creamy avocado sauce takes it to the next level.
Let’s be real, who can resist a burger with that extra zing? I whip these up when I want something hearty yet light. Serve with a side of chips for a perfect meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps these burgers light. If you want a juicier burger, try using ground chicken or even a mix of beef and turkey.
Jalapeño: Diced jalapeño provides that kick! If you prefer milder flavors, use green bell pepper instead. You can also use a poblano for a slightly different taste.
Honey: This adds a lovely sweetness to the burgers. Maple syrup works as a great substitute if you’re out of honey or prefer vegan options.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or green onion can also be tasty substitutes.
Avocado: It makes the sauce creamy. If you’re short on time, store-bought guacamole works as a quick alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Turkey Burgers Are Juicy?
Making turkey burgers can be a bit tricky since turkey is lean and can dry out easily. To keep your burgers juicy, follow these tips:
- Mix ingredients gently to prevent compacting the meat.
- Form patties that are slightly wider than your buns, as they will shrink when cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat to sear the outside and keep them moist inside.
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F (74°C) for safe cooking without drying out.
With these tips and substitutions, your easy honey jalapeño turkey burgers will be a hit at your next meal! Enjoy every bite!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (plus extra for topping)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or pan-searing)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A splash of water or milk to thin (optional)
For the Toppings and Assembly:
- 3 brioche or hamburger buns, toasted
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1/2 cup)
- Extra sliced jalapeño (optional, for garnish)
- Additional chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of active prep time and about 10-12 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, diced jalapeño, honey, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly, being careful not to overwork the meat. We want the flavors combined but the burgers to stay tender!
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. With your hands, shape each portion into a burger patty about 4 inches wide and 3/4 inch thick. Try to avoid compacting the mixture too tightly, as that can make the burgers tough.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
Using a blender or food processor, add the avocado flesh, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If your sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency. Set it aside for later!
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they’re nicely browned and their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Prepare the Toppings:
While the burgers are cooking, mix fresh corn kernels with chopped red onion and cilantro to create a vibrant topping that adds crunchy freshness!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of your creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cooked turkey patty on top, followed by a spoonful of the corn and onion mix. If you like, add extra sliced jalapeño and cilantro leaves for even more flavor. Cap it off with the burger bun!
7. Serve:
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side, perfect for squeezing over the burgers for an extra punch of flavor. Enjoy!
Delight in the harmony of sweet and spicy flavors, brought together with a creamy, zesty avocado sauce and the crunch of fresh ingredients. These burgers are great for a quick dinner or an exciting weekend cookout!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be a tasty alternative and will work well with the same seasonings and cooking method. Just ensure it is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as well.
How Can I Make the Burgers Spicier?
If you love heat, try adding more diced jalapeños or even some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. You could also serve the burgers with hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the avocado sauce a few hours ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing the container.
What Are the Best Ways to Serve Leftovers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or in the microwave. The avocado sauce can also be kept, but be sure to check for freshness before using!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further tips on making your honey jalapeño turkey burgers! Enjoy cooking!
