These turkey burgers are a yummy twist on a classic, topped with sweet balsamic caramelized onions. They’re juicy, tasty, and a healthier option for your next cookout!
I’ve made these burgers for friends and they love them! The onions add a special touch that makes everyone go back for seconds. I like to serve mine with fresh veggies on the side. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I use olive oil for cooking the onions and turkey patties since it’s healthier than butter. If you want, you can substitute it with avocado oil or a light cooking spray for fewer calories.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing because they get sweet as they cook. If you’re in a pinch, red onions work too, but they’ll be milder in flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a delicious tangy kick to the onions. If balsamic isn’t available, apple cider vinegar can be a good alternative, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Ground Turkey: Lean turkey breast keeps the burgers light. You could also use ground chicken or lean beef if preferred. Just remember that other meats may change the calorie count.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese adds nice flavor when melted. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether!
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions can be tricky, but here’s my simple method. The key is patience! When you cook onions slowly over medium heat, they become soft and sweet. Here’s how:
- Start with medium heat in your skillet and add half the olive oil.
- Add the sliced onions and stir occasionally, cooking for 20-25 minutes.
- For extra flavor, when the onions are soft, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2-3 minutes until sticky.
Making them this way gives them a rich, sweet taste that pairs perfectly with turkey!
Enjoy making your delicious turkey burgers!
Healthy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey breast (lean)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices reduced-fat provolone cheese (optional)
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, mustard, or your favorite healthy condiments
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation, followed by 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner or easy enough for a weekend get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally. You want the onions to turn soft and golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Patience is key here for the best flavor!
2. Add the Balsamic Vinegar:
Once the onions are nicely caramelized, stir in the balsamic vinegar. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vinegar reduces and coats the onions beautifully. Remove the skillet from heat and set the onions aside.
3. Prepare the Turkey Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients gently until just combined. You don’t want to overwork the meat, or your patties might turn out tough!
4. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
5. Cook the Patties:
Heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the turkey patties in the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Melt the Cheese (Optional):
During the last minute of cooking, add a slice of provolone cheese on each patty to allow it to melt slightly. This adds a delicious cheesy goodness!
7. Toast the Buns:
If you like, you can lightly toast the whole wheat burger buns on the grill or in a toaster while the patties are finishing up. It adds a nice crunch!
8. Assemble Your Burgers:
To build your burger, start by placing the turkey patty with melted cheese on the bottom bun. Top it with a generous amount of the balsamic caramelized onions, then add any additional toppings you fancy, like lettuce and tomato. Finally, place the top bun on to complete the burger.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious burgers right away with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad for a wholesome meal. Enjoy the amazing flavors of caramelized onions and turkey in every bite!
Happy cooking! 😊
FAQ for Healthy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, caramelized onions can be made ahead! Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat them in a skillet before serving your burgers for the best flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Provolone Cheese?
If you want to skip the provolone, feel free to use other types of cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or even a non-dairy cheese option for a dairy-free choice!
