These turkey burgers are a tasty twist with a mix of sweet honey and spicy jalapeño! Topped with a smooth avocado sauce, they’re perfect for your next grill night.
You’ll love how juicy these burgers are, and the creamy sauce makes every bite extra special. I always add some crunchy veggies for a refreshing crunch. Yum! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend using 93% lean ground turkey for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can swap it for lean ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat to keep it lighter.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeños bring heat! For a milder option, use a poblano pepper or omit the seeds. If you want to kick up the spice, try adding a bit of chopped serrano pepper instead.
Avocado: Ripe avocados create the creamy sauce base. If you don’t have avocados, a dollop of store-bought guacamole or tahini can work as a substitute. However, they might change the flavor a bit.
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re watching sugar intake, consider using agave nectar or maple syrup, which do a nice job too!
How Do You Cook Turkey Burgers Without Them Drying Out?
I get it—cooking turkey burgers can be tricky, as they can dry out easily. Here’s how to keep them juicy:
- Mix the turkey mixture gently; overmixing can make the burgers tough.
- Chilling the formed patties for 15-20 minutes helps them hold together and stay juicy during cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat and avoid pressing down on the patties; this keeps all the tasty juices inside!
- Always use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the sweet spot for safe and juicy turkey burgers.
By following these tips, you’ll have flavorful and juicy burgers every time!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water, as needed for thinning
For the Toppings and Assembly:
- Brioche burger buns or preferred soft buns, lightly toasted
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1/2 cup, can be fresh or thawed from frozen)
- Additional sliced jalapeño for garnish
- Extra chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro sprigs
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, followed by approximately 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, you can have these delicious honey jalapeño turkey burgers on your table in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeño, chopped red onion, minced garlic, honey, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are incorporated, but be careful not to overwork the meat so the burgers stay tender.
2. Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Place the patties on a tray and refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes. This helps the patties hold together better while cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning to taste and set aside.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the turkey patties. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) and the outside is golden brown. Try not to press down on the burgers while cooking; this keeps them juicy!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the buns on the grill or in a pan until they are golden brown.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of creamy avocado sauce on both the top and bottom buns. Place the cooked turkey burger on the bottom bun. Top with fresh corn kernels, sliced jalapeño, chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro. Close the burger with the top bun.
7. Serve:
Plate the burgers with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy immediately while they’re still warm and juicy.
This recipe combines the sweet notes of honey and the spicy kick of jalapeño in the turkey patties, all complemented by a smooth, tangy avocado sauce. Adding fresh corn and red onion brings a delightful crunch and freshness, making these burgers perfect for casual dinners or cookouts!
FAQ for Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can swap ground turkey for lean ground chicken, pork, or even beef. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure to adjust accordingly. For a healthier option, try using ground chicken or lean beef.
How Can I Make the Avocado Sauce Thinner?
If you find the avocado sauce too thick, simply add water one tablespoon at a time while blending until you reach your desired consistency. You can also use a little extra lime juice or Greek yogurt for added flavor!
What If I Don’t Have Jalapeños?
No problem! You can replace jalapeños with other mild peppers like bell peppers or poblano for less heat, or try serrano peppers for a spicier kick. If you prefer no heat, feel free to omit the pepper altogether!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The avocado sauce can also be stored in a separate container; it’s best enjoyed fresh, but can last for about 2 days in the fridge.
