These turkey burgers are tasty and light, topped with sweet caramelized onions that make each bite amazing. Don’t forget the garlic aioli! It’s easy to whip up and adds creamy goodness.
I love grilling these on a sunny day! Pair them with a fresh salad or some crispy fries, and you’ve got a fun meal. Plus, they make great leftovers for lunch! 🍔😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of your burger! If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey is leaner than beef. However, ground chicken or even veggie patties work well if you want to switch it up.
Caramelized Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. You can swap them out for red onions for a different flavor, or use shallots for a milder taste. Just remember, patience is key to a nice caramelization!
Garlic Aioli: Mayonnaise is the base for the aioli, but you can make it healthier with Greek yogurt. For a vegan version, use a plant-based mayo. The garlic keeps it flavorful, so don’t skip it!
Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice crunch and flavor. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns are great alternatives if you have dietary concerns. You could even turn these into lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
How Can I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelized onions add a sweet and rich flavor to your burgers. To get them just right, here’s a straightforward method:
- Heat your skillet over medium-low heat with olive oil or butter.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. This helps to draw out moisture.
- Stir occasionally and give them about 25-30 minutes to cook down until they’re golden and soft. Patience really pays off here!
- If you like them sweeter, sprinkle in some brown sugar about halfway through cooking.
Letting them cook slowly develops their sweetness and flavor, so don’t rush this step!
What’s the Best Way to Shape Turkey Patties?
Shaping your turkey patties properly is crucial for cooking them evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine your ingredients in a bowl gently; don’t overmix, or your burgers can become tough.
- Divide the mixture into four equal sections. Wet your hands slightly to help prevent sticking.
- Form each section into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
- Create a small indentation with your thumb in the center to prevent puffing during cooking.
This method helps each patty cook evenly and ensures a juicy burger!
Easy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Garlic Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
For the Garlic Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, minced or grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 sesame seed buns or preferred burger buns
- Pickle slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. You’ll spend about 25-30 minutes caramelizing the onions while you cook the turkey burgers. Perfect for a delightful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Let them cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft, golden brown, and deliciously caramelized. If you like your onions sweeter, mix in the brown sugar halfway through cooking. Once they look perfect, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Garlic Aioli:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy. Pop it in the fridge while you prepare your burgers; it’ll be ready to enhance your flavor!
3. Prepare the Turkey Burger Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and the chopped parsley if you’re using it. Mix gently but well, just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the burgers tough.
4. Shape the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions, and shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick. To help your patties keep their shape while cooking, make a small indentation in the center of each patty using your thumb.
5. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Preheat your grill or a skillet to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are well browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are cooking, you can toast the buns lightly. Either grill them briefly or pop them in a toaster until they’re just crispy.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous amount of garlic aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the turkey patty on top, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions. Finally, add the top bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your burgers immediately with some pickle slices on the side for that extra crunch. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful turkey burgers topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy garlic aioli!
FAQ for Easy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Garlic Aioli
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. It will give you a similar flavor and texture.
How Can I Make the Aioli Lighter or Dairy-Free?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based mayonnaise instead. Both will still keep the garlic flavor intact!
What Should I Do with Leftover Burgers?
Leftover cooked turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. The aioli can also be enjoyed as a dip for veggies or fries!
How Do I Know When My Turkey Burgers Are Done Cooking?
The best way to check if your turkey burgers are fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear, and the patty is no longer pink in the center.
