These tasty turkey burgers bring a sweet and spicy kick with honey and jalapeños! Topped with a creamy avocado sauce, they are sure to satisfy your cravings in no time.
Honestly, who knew burgers could be this fun? The sweet honey and zesty jalapeño make every bite exciting. Pair it with some fries, and you have a meal that can’t be beaten!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: The foundation of these burgers! Ground turkey is lean and absorbs spices well. If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken or a plant-based ground meat can work nicely.
Jalapeños: These add a kick! Adjust the heat by controlling how many you add and whether you remove the seeds. You can swap them for bell peppers for less heat or try serrano peppers for more spice.
Honey: This ingredient balances the spiciness of jalapeños. If you prefer a sugar-free option, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Both offer sweetness without the sugar crash!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a touch of brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley makes a nice substitute with a milder flavor, or you could just skip it altogether.
Avocado: This gives the creamy sauce its rich texture. If you can’t find a ripe avocado, try using Greek yogurt or mashed silken tofu for a similar creaminess!
How Do I Make Sure My Turkey Burgers Stay Juicy?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy can be tricky since turkey is leaner than beef. Here are some tips to help you achieve a perfectly juicy burger:
- Mix the meat and ingredients gently to avoid overworking the turkey; this keeps it tender.
- Chilling the formed patties before cooking helps them hold together on the grill.
- Don’t press the patties while cooking; this squeezes out the juices!
- Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for 165°F (74°C) for safety without overcooking.
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to your heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for grill/pan)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt to taste
- A handful of fresh cilantro leaves
For Toppings and Assembly:
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1 cup, fresh or thawed if frozen)
- Extra sliced jalapeños
- Chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Burger buns (brioche or your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, plus an optional 15 minutes for chilling the patties. All in all, you’re looking at around 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, honey, chopped cilantro, red onion, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until everything is well combined, being careful not to over-mix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form Patties and Chill:
Divide the turkey mixture into 6 equal parts. Shape each part into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. Place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the burgers hold their shape while cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, add the ripe avocado, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, minced garlic, cilantro leaves, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed. Set aside.
4. Preheat Grill or Skillet:
While the patties chill, heat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
5. Cook the Burgers:
Carefully place the turkey patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Resist the urge to press down on the patties as they cook; this will keep them juicy and flavorful!
6. Toast the Buns:
During the last minute of cooking, split the burger buns and place them on the grill or in the skillet, cut side down. Toast them until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of your creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cooked turkey burger on top, then add some fresh corn kernels, sliced jalapeños, additional chopped red onion, and a few cilantro leaves for garnish.
8. Serve:
Top each burger with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the burgers for an extra tangy flavor.
Enjoy your sweet and spicy Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with a cool, creamy avocado sauce!
FAQ for Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for turkey in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground chicken may have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still make for a delicious burger!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you’d like to make the burgers milder, use just one jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes where the most heat resides. For more heat, consider using serrano peppers or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture.
Can I Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the creamy avocado sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing. Give it a good stir before serving!
How Long Will Leftover Burgers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked patties for up to 2-3 months!
