These Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers are a fun twist on the classic! Juicy turkey mixed with sweet honey and a kick from jalapeños make each bite exciting.
And let’s not forget the creamy avocado sauce! It’s like a hug for your taste buds. I love slathering it on top and enjoying these burgers on a sunny day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the burger, tender and flavorful! If you prefer leaner meat, ground chicken or even a plant-based ground alternative can work well too.
Jalapeños: These add the perfect heat! Feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice preference. For less heat, use bell peppers instead.
Honey: It gives a lovely sweetness. If you want a no-sugar option, try maple syrup or agave nectar, which work just as well.
Cilantro: Adds freshness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be nice substitutes for that herby flavor.
Avocado: Essential for the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for something lighter, try Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as a base instead.
How Do I Get the Perfect Turkey Burger Patty?
Shaping the patty right is key to a juicy burger! Here’s how you can do it:
- Mix the turkey gently with the ingredients to avoid tough burgers.
- Make each patty around ¾ inch thick. This cooks evenly without drying out.
- Chill the patties in the fridge for about 15 minutes; this helps them hold together when cooking.
- Cook them on medium-high heat, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Gently pressing in the center of the patty while cooking can help it cook evenly and not puff up.
How to Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce Smooth?
A smooth sauce elevates your burger! Here’s how to make it creamy:
- Use a ripe avocado for the best flavor and texture. The riper, the better!
- Blend with Greek yogurt and lime juice until it’s completely smooth; a food processor works great for this.
- Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning with salt or more lime juice if it needs a kick.
Chill the sauce before serving; it will be refreshing alongside the warm burgers!
Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 4–6 brioche or soft burger buns
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1 cup, can be fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (for garnish; optional, adjust spice level)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You will spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and mixing the turkey, 15 minutes cooking the burgers, and around 5 minutes assembling everything. Easy and quick for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Patty Mix:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, honey, finely chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the burgers tender.
2. Form Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions and shape them into patties that are about ¾ inch thick. Place the patties on a plate, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This will help them hold together while cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt or sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning or lime juice if needed. Chill until you’re ready to use it.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the patties are nicely browned. Remove from heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. Prepare the Toppings:
In a small bowl, mix together the fresh corn kernels, finely diced red onion, and a bit of chopped cilantro. This mix will add a fresh crunch to your burgers!
6. Toast the Buns:
Lightly toast the burger buns in the skillet or on a grill until they are golden brown and perfectly crispy.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Start by spreading a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a turkey patty on top, and then spoon the corn and red onion topping over each patty. For those who enjoy a little heat, add jalapeño slices and fresh cilantro leaves as garnish. Finally, close the burger with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your burgers immediately, with lime wedges on the side for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy every bite of these delicious, vibrant Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers!
Enjoy your vibrant, juicy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with the cooling creamy avocado sauce and fresh crunchy toppings!
FAQ for Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will yield similar results. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as different ground meats may cook slightly faster or slower.
How Spicy Are These Burgers?
The heat level can vary depending on the jalapeños you use. If you prefer a milder burger, use only one jalapeño and remove the seeds and ribs, where most of the heat resides. Alternatively, you can substitute with a milder pepper or skip it altogether.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover turkey patties and avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the patties, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. The sauce can be served cold or at room temperature.
Can I Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the creamy avocado sauce a day in advance. Just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing the container.
