These turkey burgers are juicy and a little spicy, thanks to honey and jalapeños! Topped with a creamy avocado sauce, they are perfect for any cookout or quick dinner.
Who wouldn’t love a burger that’s sweet, spicy, and creamy all at once? When serving, I like to add some crunchy veggies on the side to balance it out. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the base of our burgers. You can use lean ground turkey for a healthier option, or even ground chicken if that’s what you have. For a beefier flavor, try using lean ground beef instead.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add a nice heat. If you prefer milder burgers, remove the seeds and membranes, or swap with green bell pepper for crunch without heat.
Honey: Honey balances the spice beautifully. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try agave syrup or maple syrup as a substitute.
Avocado: The avocado sauce offers creaminess. If you’re in a pinch, mashed up ripe banana could work, but it will change the flavor. Greek yogurt also adds creaminess and tang!
Buns: Brioche buns are sweet and soft, but I love using whole wheat or lettuce wraps for a lighter option. They add a different texture and flavor!
How Do You Make the Perfect Turkey Burger?
The key to making great turkey burgers is careful mixing and cooking. Turkey can be dry if overcooked, so watch your cooking times closely. Here’s how to ensure juicy burgers:
- Mix ground turkey and spices gently. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Make an indentation in the patties to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat for even browning without burning. Flip them only once!
Finally, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want 165°F (74°C) for safety. Enjoy crafting your perfect juicy turkey burger!
How to Make Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey Burgers:
- 1½ lbs ground turkey
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For The Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a few slices of jalapeño for heat
For The Toppings and Serving:
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1 cup, raw or lightly grilled)
- Extra chopped red onion
- Sliced jalapeño (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- 6 brioche or burger buns, toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes for cooking. You’ll enjoy freshly made turkey burgers in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeños, honey, red onion, minced garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat; we want tender burgers, not tough ones!
2. Shaping the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into six equal portions and shape each one into a patty, about 3/4 inch thick. To help them cook evenly and avoid puffing up, make a small indentation in the center of each patty using your thumb.
3. Making the Avocado Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until it’s all smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you like. If you want more heat, toss in a slice or two of jalapeño. Set the sauce aside in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the burgers.
4. Cooking the Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the turkey burgers in the pan. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on the first side until they’re nicely browned. Flip the burgers and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
5. Preparing the Toppings:
While the burgers are cooking, prepare your toppings! In a small bowl, mix the fresh corn kernels with chopped red onion and sliced jalapeños if you like. This will add a nice crunch to your burgers!
6. Assembling the Burgers:
Once your burgers are cooked, it’s time to assemble! Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a turkey burger on top, then add your corn mixture and an extra sprinkle of cilantro. Finally, cover it with the top bun.
7. Serving:
Serve your burgers with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of lime juice. Enjoy these delicious turkey burgers immediately while they are warm and juicy!
These burgers are a wonderful combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, making them a hit at any table. Enjoy each bite of your homemade turkey goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken will work just as well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that chicken tends to be a little leaner, so it may require more careful cooking to avoid dryness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers and avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat the burgers in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, and enjoy your leftovers!
Can I Freeze the Burgers Before Cooking?
Yes! You can shape the patties and freeze them before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! Some great toppings include sliced avocado, cheese (like pepper jack or cheddar), lettuce, tomatoes, or even pickled onions for an extra zing. Customize to your liking!
