These juicy turkey burgers are a tasty twist on a classic favorite. Topped with sweet caramelized onions and a smooth creamy aioli, they’re full of flavor and just right for any meal!
Honestly, the onions are my secret weapon—they make everything better! I love making these burgers on a sunny day—it’s perfect for grilling season. Yum! 🍔
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I like using 85% lean ground turkey for these burgers as it keeps them juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use ground chicken or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Onions: Yellow onions are the best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you don’t have yellow onions, sweet onions like Vidalia work well too.
Olive Oil or Butter: Either works for sautéing the onions. For a richer flavor, I lean towards butter, but olive oil is a great option if you want it dairy-free.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the aioli, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a healthier or dairy-free version. Adding more garlic gives it an extra kick!
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it just right!
- Start with a medium-low heat to prevent burning.
- Stir the onions every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. Patience is key here.
- Add sugar and a pinch of salt halfway through to boost sweetness and aid caramelization.
- When they turn golden brown and soft, they’re ready! This usually takes around 25-30 minutes.
Don’t rush it; these onions make the burgers special!
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Creamy Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (preferably 85% lean for juiciness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar (to enhance caramelization)
- Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 sesame seed sandwich buns, toasted
- Pickle slices (optional, shown in image)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to cook the burgers and caramelize the onions. Overall, you’re looking at around 45 minutes until you’re ready to dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Caramelized Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (or heat the olive oil). Add the sliced onions and stir to coat them. Cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become golden brown and sweet. About halfway through the cooking, sprinkle in the sugar and a pinch of salt to help them caramelize. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Aioli:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Now, refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it—this will bring the flavors together nicely!
3. Make the Turkey Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Mix gently but thoroughly without working the meat too much to keep the burgers juicy!
4. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick.
5. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are cooked through and beautifully browned on the outside.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the sandwich buns in the oven or on a skillet until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of aioli on the bottom bun, place a cooked turkey patty on top, add a mound of the caramelized onions, and then finish with the top bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious turkey burger immediately! You can add pickle slices on the side if you like. Enjoy every juicy bite, packed with flavor!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Juicy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Creamy Aioli
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute for turkey! You may find that ground chicken is a bit leaner, so be mindful of cooking times to ensure that the burgers remain juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them by wrapping each patty well in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make the Aioli Without Mayo?
Absolutely! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version. For added flavor, you might want to adjust the garlic and lemon juice to taste.
Can I Caramelize Onions in Advance?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions a day or two ahead of time. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in a skillet before using them to keep that delicious flavor intact.
