These turkey burgers are a tasty mix of sweet honey and spicy jalapeños. Topped with a creamy avocado sauce, they promise a bite of flavor in every mouthful!
Let’s be real, the creamy avocado sauce is like the cool friend at a party—totally elevates everything! I love to enjoy these burgers on a sunny day with friends!
Making these burgers is super easy! Just mix, shape, and grill. I also enjoy them with some chips on the side for a crunchy treat—perfect for summer BBQs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend using lean ground turkey for juiciness without being too fatty. If you’re looking for a beef alternative, ground chicken or even veggie patties work well, too!
Jalapeño: If you’re unsure about the heat, start with less or remove the seeds. You can substitute with bell peppers for a milder taste or use serrano peppers for more spice.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps with moisture. If you need a sugar substitute, try maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar effect.
Avocado: Use ripe avocados for the sauce for the best creaminess. If out of avocados, try Greek yogurt with spices to create a different but still delicious sauce.
How Do You Grill Turkey Burgers Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling turkey burgers can be tricky since turkey is leaner. Here are some tips to keep them juicy:
- Don’t overmix the turkey when combining ingredients; it can make the patties tough.
- Chill the shaped patties for a bit – this helps them hold their shape and stay moist while cooking.
- Grill on medium-high heat, and don’t press down on them while cooking. This keeps all those tasty juices inside!
- Use a meat thermometer; turkey should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety and perfect doneness.
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1.5 pounds ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping and Serving:
- 3 brioche burger buns, toasted
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1 cup), can be raw or lightly cooked/grilled
- Extra slices of jalapeño (optional)
- Additional chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need another 20-30 minutes to cook and chill the patties. So, plan for about 45 minutes in total from start to finish—perfect for a relaxed dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped jalapeño, honey, red onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well combined. Try not to overmix, as it may make the burgers tough!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each one into a thick patty, about 3/4 inch thick. Place the patties on a plate or tray and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes. Chilling them helps them hold their shape and boosts the flavor!
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
While the patties chill, make the sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set the sauce aside in a small bowl and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
4. Grill the Patties:
Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill surface with olive oil. Grill the turkey patties for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and don’t press them down while grilling—that’s the key to keeping them juicy!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun. Place a warm turkey patty on top of the sauce, then add fresh corn kernels, sliced jalapeños, chopped red onion, and cilantro leaves. Top with the other half of the bun.
6. Serve:
Serve the burgers right away, tossing in some lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy with your favorite sides, like chips, a fresh salad, or grilled veggies. Dive into these flavor-packed burgers, and savor every bite!
These juicy turkey burgers balance the sweet honey with the spicy jalapeño, all beautifully complemented by the creamy avocado sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or fun barbeque with friends!
FAQ
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works great and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that chicken can be a bit juicier, so adjustments to cooking time might be necessary.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you’re looking for extra heat, consider adding more jalapeños or include a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in the turkey mixture. You can also use spicy mayo or add sliced habaneros in the topping for an extra kick!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. The creamy avocado sauce can last in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I Freeze the Patties?
Yes! You can freeze the shaped, uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once solid. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling!
