These Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers are a tasty treat with a hint of sweetness and a spicy kick! They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and super easy to whip up.
I love how the creamy avocado sauce adds a fun twist. It’s the perfect pairing with the spice of the jalapeños. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this delicious combo! 🥑🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and healthy, turkey is the star here! If you prefer dark meat for extra moisture, go for it. Or, if you’re looking for a meatless option, you can use a plant-based ground product instead!
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add heat and flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your spice level. For a milder alternative, try bell peppers or even banana peppers!
Red Onion: This ingredient brings a nice crunch and tang. If you’re not a fan, you could substitute with green onions or use white onion for a sharper taste.
Honey: It sweetens the burger perfectly! Agave nectar or maple syrup can be good substitutes if you’re aiming for a vegan option.
Avocado: The creamy avocado sauce is a highlight! If avocados are out of season, you can use store-bought guacamole as a quick alternative.
How Do I Grill the Perfect Turkey Burgers?
Grilling turkey burgers can be tricky since they tend to dry out. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat: Make sure your grill is hot! This helps sear the burgers and lock in juices.
- Oil the Grate: Lightly oil your grill grates. This prevents the burgers from sticking and keeps them intact.
- Don’t Over-Press: When grilling, avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula. This releases the juices and can make your burgers dry.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temp of 165°F (74°C) for safety and optimal juiciness.
These tips will help keep your turkey burgers moist and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey Burgers:
- 1.5 pounds ground turkey
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
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 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste
- Water to thin, if necessary
Additional Toppings:
- Fresh corn kernels (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- Additional chopped red onion
- Sliced jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges (for serving)
For Serving:
- 6 brioche or soft burger buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes to chill the burgers before grilling. The grilling itself takes roughly 10-12 minutes. Overall, you can have these delicious turkey burgers ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeños, red onion, garlic, honey, chopped cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat.
2. Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and form each into a burger patty about 3/4 inch thick. Place the patties on a plate and chill for 15-20 minutes to help firm up.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, add the ripe avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water a teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust salt or lime as needed. Set aside.
4. Grill the Burgers:
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep them juicy.
5. Toast the Buns:
In the last few minutes of cooking, split the buns and toast them face down on the grill until golden and slightly crispy.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place the cooked turkey patty on top. Spoon some fresh corn kernels, chopped red onion, and slices of jalapeño over the patty. Add a few cilantro leaves for freshness. Top with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Serve the burgers immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with that luscious creamy avocado sauce and fresh toppings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef for a richer flavor and a different texture. Just keep in mind that fat content may vary, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
How Can I Make the Avocado Sauce Thicker or Creamier?
If you’d like a thicker sauce, simply reduce the amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also add another half avocado until you achieve your desired consistency. Just blend until smooth!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can either reheat them in a skillet or the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings. Sliced cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles all make great additions to enhance flavor and texture!
