These Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers are so tasty! The sweet and spicy mix gets a boost from creamy avocado sauce, making each bite super delicious.
I love how quick they are to make and a hit at backyard barbecues! Just grill them up, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a burger that’s both fun and fresh. 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein in the burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground chicken works great too. For a vegetarian version, you could use black beans or a store-bought veggie burger as a filler.
Jalapeño: Provides a nice kick! If you prefer less heat, consider using a mild green bell pepper. For an extra spicy burger, add a serrano pepper instead.
Avocado: A creamy avocado is key for your sauce. If you don’t have one, try using guacamole or even Greek yogurt for creaminess, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be good substitutes. You could also simply leave it out!
How Do I Ensure My Turkey Burgers Are Juicy?
Juicy turkey burgers can be a challenge, but there’s a trick to it! The key is not to overmix the meat, which can make the burgers tough. Here’s how:
- Combine your ingredients gently in a bowl, just until mixed.
- Form patties without pressing too hard. A light touch keeps them tender!
- Create a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
- Cook on medium heat, and check the temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.
By following these steps, you should end up with juicy and flavorful turkey burgers every time!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (plus extra for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to thin, if needed
For the Toppings and Assembly:
- Sweet corn kernels (fresh or cooked)
- Additional sliced jalapeño (optional, for topping)
- Chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Burger buns, preferably toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking, bringing the total time to around 30 minutes. Quick and lovely, your burgers will be ready before you know it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped cilantro, jalapeño, red onion, minced garlic, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
2. Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps prevent puffing up during cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro leaves, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time to reach a spreadable consistency.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking. Cook the turkey burgers for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are cooked through with those lovely grill marks!
5. Toast Buns and Prepare Toppings:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster. For a fresh topping, mix the corn kernels with some chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of creamy avocado sauce on the bottom bun. Place the cooked turkey burger on top, and spoon the corn salsa over the burger. If desired, add sliced jalapeños and red onion to taste. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and place the top bun on.
7. Serve:
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a refreshing burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious and vibrant honey jalapeño turkey burgers!
This recipe combines sweet honey with a kick of jalapeño and creamy avocado, creating a delightful balance. The fresh corn salsa adds crunch and color that perfectly complements the juicy turkey patties.
FAQ for Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers
Can I Use Leaner Meat Instead of Ground Turkey?
Absolutely! Lean ground chicken or even ground beef can work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially if using beef, to reach the safe cooking temperature of 160°F (71°C) for ground meats.
How Can I Make the Burgers Spicier?
If you love heat, you can keep the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture. For a spicy twist, consider topping the burger with a slice of pepper jack cheese or sautéed spicy peppers!
Can I Prepare the Avocado Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can make the avocado sauce up to one day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Leftover turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, making a great meal prep option!
