These tasty turkey burgers have a sweet twist with honey and a little kick from jalapeños. Topped with a creamy avocado sauce, they’re sure to please everyone’s taste buds!
I love how easy they are to whip up for a quick dinner. Plus, who can resist that creamy avocado goodness? It’s a fun way to spice up burger night! 🌶️🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat keeps the burgers moist and flavorful. If you want a richer taste, try using ground chicken or even lean beef as a substitute.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeños add heat, but if you prefer milder flavors, use a green bell pepper or omit them entirely. You can also use pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist!
Honey: This ingredient not only sweetens the burgers but also helps with caramelization. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be good alternatives if you can’t use honey.
Avocado: Avocados provide creaminess in the sauce. If avocados are not ripe, you might substitute with ripe bananas, but the flavor will change. Alternatively, a creamy plant-based yogurt can work too.
How Can You Make Sure Your Turkey Burgers Are Juicy and Not Dry?
Cooking turkey burgers can be tricky since they can dry out quickly. Here are some tips to keep them juicy:
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat.
- Shape the patties with a slight indentation in the center. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook on medium-high heat, and use a cooking thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Avoid pressing down on the patties with your spatula during cooking, as this releases juices.
Following these tips will help you achieve deliciously juicy burgers every time!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 small clove garlic
- Salt, to taste
For Toppings and Assembly:
- 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (can be fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Brioche or sandwich buns
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and another 10-12 minutes for cooking, making it an ideal option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped jalapeño, honey, minced garlic, red onion, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the salt or lime juice as needed. Set aside.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet or on a grill over medium-high heat. Add the burgers and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Try not to press down on the patties as they cook—the juices should stay inside!
5. Prepare the Toppings:
In a small bowl, mix the fresh corn kernels with the chopped red onion and sliced jalapeño if you’re using it. This adds a nice crunch and flavor on top of the burgers.
6. Toast the Buns:
Lightly toast the brioche or sandwich buns on the grill or in the skillet until they turn golden brown. This adds a lovely texture!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a warm turkey burger on top, and spoon over the corn and onion mixture. Top with fresh cilantro leaves and any additional sliced jalapeño if you like a little extra heat. Close each burger with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your delicious turkey burgers immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy every juicy bite!
Dig into these juicy, flavorful turkey burgers that balance sweet honey, spicy jalapeño, and cool creamy avocado—perfect for any burger night!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Ground Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Fresh Jalapeños?
If fresh jalapeños aren’t available, you can use pickled jalapeños for a tangy kick or red pepper flakes for some heat. Adjust the quantity according to your spice preference!
How Can I Store Leftover Burger Patties?
Store any leftover turkey burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave until warmed through before serving.
Can I Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the avocado sauce up to a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container, making sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize browning.
