These turkey burgers are a fun twist on the classic! With a touch of honey and spicy jalapeños, they pack a flavorful punch. Topped with creamy avocado sauce, they’re simply irresistible!
Making these burgers is a treat! I love how the honey balances the heat, and that creamy avocado sauce is so smooth. Perfect for a summer BBQ or an easy weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the base of your burgers. You can use lean ground turkey or even ground chicken if you prefer. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using ground turkey breast.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeños add a nice kick! If you need less heat, remove the seeds and membranes. For a milder flavor, use roasted bell peppers or skip this ingredient altogether.
Honey: It brings a sweet touch to balance the jalapeño’s heat. Maple syrup or agave nectar can work as a great alternative if you’re looking to avoid refined sugars.
Cilantro: It adds freshness! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute, or simply leave it out.
Avocado: The star of the creamy sauce! If you don’t have ripe avocados, try using store-bought guacamole for convenience, or substitute Greek yogurt with a mashed banana for a different flavor.
How Do I Grill Juicy Turkey Burgers Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling turkey burgers can be tricky as they tend to dry out. Here are a few tips:
- Do Not Overmix: When mixing the ingredients, be gentle. Overworking the meat can lead to a tough texture.
- Chill the Patties: Refrigerate the formed patties for at least 20 minutes. This helps them hold together and stay juicy during cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are safe to eat without overcooking.
- Avoid Pressing Down: When grilling, resist the urge to press down on the patties. This squeezes out moisture and can dry them out.
Hope these tips and insights help you make the best turkey burgers ever! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey breast
- 1 fresh jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion (plus more for topping)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh cilantro leaves
For Assembly:
- 6 shiny brioche burger buns, lightly toasted
- Fresh corn kernels (from about 1 ear), lightly grilled or raw as preferred
- Additional sliced jalapeños for topping
- Extra chopped red onion for topping
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Lime wedges on the side
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 20 minutes of chilling time for the patties, and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes to get these delicious burgers on your plate and ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeño, honey, minced garlic, ½ cup of red onion, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined; be careful not to overwork the meat or your burgers may turn out tough.
2. Form the Patties:
Shape the mixture into 6 even patties, each about ¾ inch thick. Place them on a baking sheet or plate, cover with plastic wrap, and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. Chilling will help them hold together better when grilling.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
While the patties are chilling, prepare the creamy avocado sauce. In a food processor or blender, add the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, minced garlic, cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Set aside.
4. Grill the Burgers:
Now it’s time to grill! Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates or the pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remember not to press down on the patties while cooking to keep them juicy!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the brioche buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until they’re golden and slightly crisp. Toasting the buns enhances their flavor and adds great texture!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
To put your burgers together, spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a grilled turkey patty on top. Add a spoonful of fresh corn kernels, a few slices of jalapeño, some chopped red onion, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Cap it off with the top half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Serve your burgers immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top if desired. Enjoy the blend of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your delicious Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce!
FAQ for Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute and will give you a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure it’s lean to keep the burgers from becoming too greasy!
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level of the Burgers?
If you prefer less heat, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before chopping it. Alternatively, you can use a milder pepper, like a bell pepper, or simply decrease the amount of jalapeño used.
Can I Make the Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the turkey burger mixture and shape it into patties up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge. You can also make the avocado sauce ahead of time; just store it in an airtight container to prevent browning.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers and Sauce?
Store any leftover burgers and creamy avocado sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat the burgers, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. The avocado sauce can be served cold or at room temperature.
