These honey jalapeño turkey burgers are a tasty twist on a classic. Juicy turkey blends with sweet honey and a little kick from jalapeños. Top it all off with a creamy avocado sauce!
I love how the sweet and spicy flavors come together. Plus, the creamy sauce makes each bite smooth and delicious. Serve them up with a side of fries for a fun meal! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the main protein. Ground turkey is lean and flavorful, but if you’re looking for something richer, you can use ground chicken or even beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based meat alternatives.
Jalapeños: These add a nice kick! You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. For a milder version, try using sweet bell peppers or poblano peppers instead.
Honey: Honey gives a hint of sweetness that balances the heat. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave syrup works well. For a sugar-free option, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia.
Avocado: This provides a creamy texture to the sauce. If you’re out of avocados, you can use store-bought guacamole or even Greek yogurt for a different take on the sauce.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Turkey Burgers?
Cooking turkey burgers can be tricky since they tend to dry out if overcooked. Here are some tips to help you achieve juicy patties:
- Mix ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat.
- Form patties with a small indentation in the center to help them cook evenly.
- Cook on medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps redistribute the juices for a juicy bite!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers With Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (fresh)
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt to taste
Toppings and Serving:
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1 cup, fresh or thawed if frozen)
- Additional sliced jalapeños
- Chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Soft burger buns, toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and around 15-20 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 30-35 minutes to serve these scrumptious burgers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeños, honey, red onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the burgers tender.
2. Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions and shape each into a burger patty about ¾ inch thick. To help them cook evenly and prevent puffing, press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
3. Make Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning or lime juice if needed. Set the sauce aside.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates or pan. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are nicely browned on the outside.
5. Toast the Buns:
When the burgers are nearly done cooking, toast the burger buns on the grill or in a skillet until they are golden and slightly crisp.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce inside each bottom bun. Place the cooked turkey patty on top. Then, load up with fresh corn kernels, additional jalapeño slices, chopped red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves to your liking.
7. Serve:
Cover the burgers with the top buns and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the burgers. Enjoy the blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors!
Whip up these juicy and flavorful honey jalapeño turkey burgers for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends!
FAQ: Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers With Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to cook it to the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Spicy Are These Burgers?
The spiciness largely depends on the number of jalapeños used. For a milder burger, use just one jalapeño or remove the seeds before chopping. Feel free to adjust to your heat preference!
Can I Make the Avocado Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To prevent browning, squeeze a little extra lime juice on top before sealing it. It should stay fresh for about 1-2 days.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little moisture if needed to keep them juicy.
