These turkey burgers bring a tasty twist with honey and jalapeño for a sweet and spicy kick! Topped with a creamy avocado sauce, they really hit the spot.
When I make these burgers, I can’t resist adding extra avocado sauce—it’s just that good. They’re perfect for barbecue evenings or quick dinner nights—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the burgers, giving them a lean protein base. If you prefer, ground chicken works well too. Don’t hesitate to use a mix of dark and light meat for extra flavor.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeño adds a nice spice level. For milder flavor, use banana peppers. If you like it hot, keep the seeds in or switch to habanero peppers, but be cautious with the heat!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness to balance the heat. Maple syrup or agave can be substituted for a similar sweetness, especially if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Avocado: The creamy avocado sauce is a must! If you have a nut allergy, try using tahini or sunflower seed butter for creaminess instead of yogurt.
How Can You Ensure Your Turkey Burgers Stay Juicy?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy can be tricky since turkey is leaner than beef. Here are some tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat! Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed for a tender texture.
- Use a food thermometer to check for doneness. Remove burgers at 165°F (74°C) to avoid drying them out.
- Consider adding a bit of olive oil to the mixture for extra moisture. A tablespoon can go a long way!
- Let the patties rest a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
These tips will help you create turkey burgers that are flavorful and juicy, making them a family favorite!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ lb ground turkey
- 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat, or kept for more)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, 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 large ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A splash of water (to thin sauce as needed)
For Assembly:
- 6 brioche burger buns or preferred buns
- Fresh corn kernels (optional, can be raw or lightly grilled)
- Extra sliced jalapeño for topping
- Extra diced red onion
- Fresh cilantro sprigs
- Lime wedges for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. Total time is roughly 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeño, honey, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to keep the burgers tender and juicy.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty, about ¾ inch thick. You can make them a little flatter in the center as they may puff up while cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), fresh lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency. Set aside.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the turkey patties and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are nicely browned on the outside. Depending on your stove, you might want to adjust the heat to avoid burning.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the brioche buns on a grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch and helps prevent the buns from getting soggy.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Place a cooked turkey patty on each bun, then add a sprinkle of fresh corn kernels, sliced jalapeños, diced red onion, and cilantro sprigs. Finally, top with the bun crown to finish the burgers.
7. Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Turkey Burgers with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. This adds an extra burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors!
Enjoy these juicy, flavorful turkey burgers that balance sweet honey, spicy jalapeño, and rich, creamy avocado sauce! They’re sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be used in place of ground turkey and offers a similar texture and flavor. Just be sure to monitor cooking times, as ground chicken can sometimes cook a bit quicker.
How Can I Reduce the Spice Level of the Burgers?
If you want to tone down the heat, simply remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño, as this part contains the most heat. Alternatively, you can use a milder pepper like bell pepper or even skip the jalapeño altogether for a more subtle flavor.
Can I Make the Avocado Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the avocado sauce ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing the container. It should stay fresh for about a day or two.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring they are heated through to 165°F (74°C) before serving again.
