These Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers are a delicious mix of sweet and spicy. The honey adds a nice touch, while jalapeños give it a tasty kick!
Let’s not forget that creamy avocado sauce—it’s cool and smooth, perfect for balancing the heat. I always make extra because it’s that good! 🥑
These burgers are so easy to make. I love serving them with fresh veggies on the side for a fun, colorful meal. You’ll want to add these to your dinner rotation!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: The base of the burger, ground turkey is lean and healthy. If you prefer red meat, ground beef or turkey could be used instead. You can also opt for chicken for a lighter option.
Jalapeño: This adds a spicy kick! Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you want a milder flavor, try using a sweet bell pepper or even poblano for less heat.
Honey: This ingredient brings sweetness to balance the heat. If you’re looking for a no-sugar option, agave syrup or maple syrup can work as a nice alternative.
Avocado: The star of the creamy sauce! If you’re out of avocados, you might use a premade guacamole or even Greek yogurt for a healthy twist.
How Do I Ensure My Turkey Burgers Stay Juicy?
Keeping the turkey burgers juicy is all about handling the mixture gently. Here are some tips:
- Combine the ingredients just until mixed. Overworking the meat can make it tough.
- Shape patties so they’re slightly thicker in the center. They’ll cook evenly and prevent drying out.
- Cook on medium-high heat and avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking; this releases moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is perfect for turkey!
- Let the patties rest a few minutes after grilling. This helps juices redistribute.
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 jalapeño, finely minced (adjust for heat preference)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced (optional, some for patties and some for topping)
- 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 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A splash of water or milk to thin sauce as needed
Additional Toppings and Assembly:
- Fresh corn kernels (from 1 ear or about 1/2 cup)
- Extra sliced jalapeños (for topping, optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Soft burger buns, toasted or grilled
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. This includes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for grilling your delicious burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Patty Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, minced jalapeño, honey, garlic, cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and half of the diced red onion. Combine everything gently until just mixed. Be careful not to overwork the meat; this helps keep your patties tender!
2. Form Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 6 equal portions, and shape each into a slightly flattened patty about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure they are all similar in size for even cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, add the avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed!
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with olive oil to prevent the patties from sticking. Grill the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove them from the heat.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, lightly toast or grill the burger buns until they’re golden and slightly crisp. This adds great texture and flavor!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each burger bun. Place a turkey patty on top, then add a spoonful of fresh corn kernels, a few sliced jalapeños, some diced red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor and color.
7. Serve:
Top off the burgers with the bun lid and serve immediately, accompanied by lime wedges for a fresh squeeze over your burgers. Enjoy your meal!
These juicy, flavorful turkey burgers strike a perfect balance of sweet honey, spicy jalapeño, and creamy avocado sauce—deliciously satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken will work well as a substitute. Just keep in mind that ground chicken can be a little leaner, so be cautious not to overcook it to maintain moisture.
How Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you’d like to add more heat to the creamy avocado sauce, consider mixing in some finely chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some hot sauce. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
Can I Make the Turkey Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time! Form them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to keep them covered in plastic wrap or an airtight container.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or warm them on a skillet over low heat. The avocado sauce can be kept in the fridge as well, but it’s best used within 1-2 days due to browning.
