These juicy turkey burgers are a great twist on a classic favorite! Topped with sweet balsamic caramelized onions, they’re bursting with flavor and sure to please everyone at your BBQ.
I love how the onions add a perfect touch of sweetness. Pair these burgers with your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a delicious meal that feels special without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Using 93% lean turkey keeps these burgers juicy without too much fat. If you prefer, you can substitute ground chicken or even lean beef for a different flavor profile.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic adds a rich sweetness to the onions. If you’re out, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but adjust the amount to taste since they are more acidic.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for caramelizing, but you can also use sweet onions like Vidalia for an even sweeter taste. Red onions can replace them too for a slight twist in flavor and color.
Breadcrumbs: If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead. It gives a similar texture without the gluten.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Turkey Burger Without Drying It Out?
Cooking turkey burgers can be tricky since turkey is lean and can dry out. Here are some tips to keep them juicy:
- Don’t overmix the turkey mixture; combine just until everything is mixed. This helps keep the patties tender.
- Make a small indent in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly and prevent puffing up.
- Cook on medium-high heat. This allows for a nice sear on the outside while retaining moisture inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F without overcooking.
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Balsamic Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1.5 pounds ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Balsamic Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To Serve:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Optional: cheese slices (e.g., cheddar or provolone)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes to prepare and cook these delicious turkey burgers, making it a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until the onions are soft and golden brown.
2. Add Balsamic and Sugar:
Stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar (if using). Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vinegar to reduce and the onions to become richly caramelized. Season with fresh black pepper and adjust the salt to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the burgers tender.
4. Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a burger patty about 3/4 inch thick, ensuring they are even for consistent cooking.
5. Cook the Burgers:
Heat the tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook each turkey patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are nicely browned. Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook to retain their juiciness.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the burger buns lightly in a toaster or on the grill until they’re just golden and warm.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
To assemble, place each cooked turkey burger on the bottom of a toasted bun. Top generously with the balsamic caramelized onions, and add lettuce, tomato slices, and cheese if desired. Finish with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your juicy turkey burgers immediately with your favorite sides like fries, salad, or coleslaw. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors!
Dig into your delicious turkey burgers topped with sweet balsamic caramelized onions and savor every bite!
FAQ for Juicy Turkey Burgers with Balsamic Caramelized Onions
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative to ground turkey and will work perfectly for this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as ground chicken can sometimes be a bit leaner.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding minced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture. You could also serve them with spicy mayonnaise or hot sauce for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked patties for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or on a skillet until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions a day ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them on the stove or in the microwave before serving them on your burgers.
