These Easy Turkey Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor. Topped with sweet caramelized onions and a creamy aioli, they’re a tasty twist on a classic!
Once you take a bite, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for plain burgers. I love how quick and fun they are to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and healthy, ground turkey is the star here. You could also use ground chicken if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust seasoning as chicken can be milder.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the patties. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead!
Onions: Yellow onions work best for caramelizing as they bring out sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, white onions can do the job, but they’re less sweet. Sautéed shallots are another lovely alternative!
Aioli: Mayo is the base here. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, Greek yogurt mixed with garlic and lemon juice can make a tasty substitute!
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions may seem tricky, but it’s all about patience. The goal is slow cooking over low heat to develop that sweet flavor. Here’s my simple approach:
- Start by heating olive oil in your skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and stir them to coat in oil.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, letting them get golden and soft.
- If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat and keep stirring.
Once caramelized, they’ll add a wonderful sweetness to your turkey burgers! Enjoy the process of making them—it’s worth the wait!
Easy Turkey Burgers with Caramelized Onions and Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for caramelizing onions)
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- Pickle slices, for serving
For the Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30-35 minutes in total. This includes around 10 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. The onions take a bit of time to caramelize, but trust me, the sweet flavor they add is totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. When the oil is hot, add the sliced onions. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally. Your goal is to let them soften and turn a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Once they’re done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Aioli:
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined. Cover and place it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your burgers. This will keep it fresh and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Make the Turkey Patties:
In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is combined but be careful not to overmix; we want juicy burgers!
Next, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each piece into a patty about 3/4-inch thick.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat a grill or a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure your burgers are safe to eat!
5. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, toast the sesame seed buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster. This adds a nice crunch and keeps them from getting soggy.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
To put it all together, spread a generous amount of aioli onto the bottom bun. Place a cooked turkey patty on top and then pile on the sweet caramelized onions. Finish off with the top bun.
7. Serve:
Enjoy your burgers right away! Serve them with some pickle slices on the side for an extra crunch and tang. Yum!
These juicy, flavorful turkey burgers paired with sweet onions and creamy aioli are sure to become a family favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Leaner Ground Turkey?
Absolutely! Using extra-lean ground turkey is fine, but keep in mind that the burgers might be a bit drier. To counter this, consider adding a little extra aioli or a splash of chicken broth to the mixture for added moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, a dash of balsamic vinegar can also work in a pinch. Adjust to taste!
Can I Make the Aioli Ahead of Time?
Yes! The aioli can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. The flavors may actually improve as they meld together!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the turkey patties and aioli separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The burgers will last for about 3-4 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave, and add fresh aioli just before serving for the best taste!
