These turkey burgers are quick to make and packed with flavor! Topped with sweet caramelized onions and a creamy garlic aioli, they’re juicy and simply delightful.
I love how the onions get all sweet and sticky while cooking. You might find yourself sneaking spoonfuls while you wait! Who can resist a good burger with tasty toppings? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is perfect for burgers, but you can use ground chicken if you prefer. For a richer flavor, try mixing ground beef or pork in, just keep the fat content in mind for juiciness.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing since they become sweet and tender. If you’re in a pinch, red onions work too, but they’ll have a sharper flavor. Sweet onions like Vidalia can be a delicious alternative.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the turkey patties. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes. Oats can work in a pinch too!
Garlic Aioli: Who doesn’t love garlic? If you want a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess with extra protein!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions slowly is key to unlocking their sweetness. This technique does take some time, but the result is worth it! Here’s how to do it right:
- Slice onions thinly for even cooking. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat your skillet on medium-low and add oil or butter. The goal is to cook the onions gently.
- Add the onions and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally. This helps them cook evenly.
- Be patient! It takes about 25-30 minutes. If they start to stick or brown too fast, lower the heat.
- If you like them sweeter, add a sprinkle of sugar or honey halfway through cooking.
When finished, they should be golden brown and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Easy Turkey Burgers With Sweet Caramelized Onions And Garlic Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the turkey burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the caramelized onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp sugar or honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
- A pinch of salt
For the garlic aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced or grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For assembling:
- 4 sandwich buns (sesame seed or everything bagel style)
- Dill pickle slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes to cook and caramelize the onions. By the end, you’ll have delicious burgers ready to enjoy in about 45 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Caramelized Onions:
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and sprinkle a pinch of salt on top. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until they become soft and golden brown. If you want extra sweetness, add sugar or honey halfway through. Once they’re done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make Garlic Aioli:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Once mixed, refrigerate the aioli until you’re ready to assemble your burgers.
3. Prepare Turkey Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Gently mix everything until just combined to keep the burgers tender. Form the mixture into 4 evenly sized patties.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat, lightly oiling the surface if necessary. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
If you like, lightly toast the sandwich buns. Spread a generous layer of garlic aioli on the bottom bun, then add the cooked turkey patty. Top it with a good scoop of the sweet caramelized onions. If you’re a fan of it, add a bit more aioli on top before placing the top bun. Serve your burgers immediately, with dill pickle slices on the side if you prefer.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful turkey burgers topped with luscious caramelized onions and creamy garlic aioli!
FAQ for Easy Turkey Burgers With Sweet Caramelized Onions And Garlic Aioli
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. Just make sure to check the fat content to keep the burgers juicy!
What Should I Do If I Need to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
No worries! This recipe is already dairy-free since it uses mayonnaise for the garlic aioli. Just ensure that the mayonnaise you pick is dairy-free as well.
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm them gently in a skillet. You can also freeze uncooked patties; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.
Can I Prep the Ingredients Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the caramelized onions and garlic aioli a day in advance. Just store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Form the turkey patties and keep them wrapped in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
