These Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy balsamic onions make each bite extra special.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a burger that practically smiles back at you? I love grilling these up for summer cookouts. Pair them with some fresh veggies, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onion: This is the star of your caramelized topping! Yellow onions caramelize beautifully and develop a nice sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a sharper taste.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy sweetness to the onions. If you’re out, a mix of red wine vinegar and a bit of sugar can work as a substitute. I love using good-quality balsamic for a richer flavor!
Ground Turkey: I recommend lean ground turkey for these burgers. You can substitute with ground chicken or even lean beef if preferred. Just note that the flavor will change slightly. For a vegetarian option, use black beans or chickpeas!
Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella adds a creamy melt to the burger. Feel free to swap with cheddar or Swiss for a different twist. Or skip cheese entirely for a lighter option.
How Do You Caramelize Onions to Perfection?
Caramelizing onions can be tricky, but with patience, it’s easy! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a preheated skillet over medium heat; add olive oil.
- Add sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. The salt helps draw out moisture.
- Cook gently, stirring every few minutes to avoid burning, for about 15-20 minutes.
- When they’re soft and nice and brown, add the balsamic vinegar and stir.
- Let it reduce for another 2-3 minutes until the liquid evaporates, leaving a sweet-tasting onion topping!
Remember, take your time! The slower you cook them, the sweeter and richer they’ll become.
Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients, about 15-20 minutes to caramelize the onions, and another 10-15 minutes to shape, cook the patties, and assemble the burgers. A quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook them gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn soft and golden brown, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Don’t rush this step; caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness!
2. Add Balsamic Vinegar:
Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, add the balsamic vinegar. Stir the onions to coat them with the vinegar and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes. This step gives the onions a delightful tangy-sweet flavor. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Prepare the Turkey Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly, being careful not to overwork the mixture, or your burgers may become tough.
4. Shape the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions, and shape each portion into patties that are slightly larger than your burger buns, as they will shrink a bit while cooking.
5. Cook the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Place the turkey patties on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the grill or skillet to melt the cheese perfectly.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
If you like, you can toast the burger buns for a nice crunch. Place the melted cheese turkey patty on the bottom bun, pile on those delicious balsamic caramelized onions, and crown with the top bun. Simple and scrumptious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
These turkey burgers are best served immediately. Pair them with your favorite sides like a fresh salad or sweet potato fries, and enjoy a fantastic meal!
This recipe yields juicy, flavorful turkey burgers enhanced by the sweet and tangy depth of balsamic caramelized onions—perfect for a satisfying meal!
FAQ
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute ground chicken for ground turkey! The burgers will still be delicious, but be mindful of the cooking time as ground chicken may cook slightly faster depending on the fat content.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. The caramelized onions can also be stored separately!
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the balsamic caramelized onions a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble your burgers, simply reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with These Turkey Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For a lighter option, enjoy them with a side of fruit or a coleslaw.
