These tasty turkey burgers are a fun twist with sweet honey and a kick from jalapeños! They’re juicy and flavorful, plus they come with a creamy avocado sauce that takes them to the next level.
Making these burgers is so easy! I often grill them up for a summer cookout, and my friends can’t get enough. Don’t forget the avocado sauce—it’s like a hug for your taste buds! 🥑🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: A lean meat that keeps the burgers moist while being healthier than beef. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider ground chicken or even plant-based burgers for a meatless option.
Jalapeños: These provide a nice heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, use less or try bell peppers for flavor without the burn.
Honey: Adds a sweet balance to the spice. Maple syrup is a great substitute if you want a vegan option, or agave syrup works too.
Avocado: It’s essential for the creamy sauce. If you’re out, you can use Greek yogurt for a similar texture, or even silken tofu for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Keep My Turkey Burgers Juicy?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy can be tricky since they tend to dry out quickly. Here are a few tips:
- Use lean ground turkey, but not extra-lean; a bit of fat helps keep them moist.
- Avoid overmixing the meat and ingredients as it can make the burgers tough.
- Create that indentation in the patties to prevent them from puffing up while cooking. This keeps the texture right!
- Cook on medium heat so they brown nicely without drying out. Check using a meat thermometer for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
Following these tips will help you make delicious turkey burgers every time!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey Burgers:
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For The Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water or milk, to thin (optional)
For Toppings and Buns:
- 6 hamburger buns, preferably brioche, toasted
- Fresh corn kernels (raw or lightly cooked)
- Additional sliced jalapeños
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Extra diced red onion
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. Altogether, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to get these delicious turkey burgers ready to serve, making them perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, diced red onion, honey, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until well combined, but be careful not to overmix as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form Patties:
Shape the mixture into 6 evenly sized patties, each about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. To prevent the patties from puffing up while they cook, make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
3. Make the Avocado Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, blend the avocado, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add a small splash of water or milk to thin it out.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through (they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remember not to press down on the patties while cooking, as this will keep them juicy!
5. Toast Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns until they are golden and crisp. This adds extra flavor and texture!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cooked turkey patty on top, then add fresh corn kernels, sliced jalapeños, diced red onions, and cilantro leaves according to your preference.
7. Serve:
Finish by placing the top half of the bun on each burger. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy your flavorful turkey burgers that combine sweet honey, spicy jalapeño, and a refreshing avocado sauce!
These burgers are sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and will still keep the burger moist. Just make sure to handle it the same way as you would with turkey to prevent overmixing.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you like more heat, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also serve with a spicy mayo or chipotle sauce for an extra kick!
What If I Don’t Have Avocados for the Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute the creamy avocado sauce with a mix of Greek yogurt and lime juice for a tangy, creamy alternative. Adding a bit of pesto can also give a delicious twist!
Can I Make the Burger Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey mixture a day in advance! Just cover it and refrigerate it until you’re ready to form and cook the patties. This allows the flavors to meld even better!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a skillet until heated through or in the microwave for a quick option.
