These Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers pack a delicious punch with a hint of sweetness and a spicy kick. Topped with creamy avocado sauce, they’re the perfect summer meal!
I love how simple it is to mix up the turkey and spices, then grill or pan-fry them. They’re juicy and flavorful—who needs fast food when you can make these at home? 🍔💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the dish! For a leaner option, you can substitute with ground chicken or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist.
Jalapeño: If you’re sensitive to heat, you can leave out the seeds or substitute with bell pepper for a milder flavor. For an extra kick, try using serrano peppers instead!
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness to balance the heat. If you’re looking for a vegan option, swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.
Greek Yogurt: This creamy base for the avocado sauce provides a tangy flavor. You can replace it with sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt if preferred.
Avocado: Always choose ripe avocados for the smoothest sauce. If you don’t have avocados, mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce can work in a pinch, but the flavor will change!
How Do You Ensure Your Burgers Stay Juicy?
Key to juicy turkey burgers is not overmixing the meat. Use your hands to gently combine the ingredients until just mixed. Form your patties without compacting them too much—this ensures they stay tender.
- Chill the patties for at least 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them keep their shape and moisture.
- Cooking on medium-high heat helps get a nice sear without drying them out. A thermometer is useful—look for 165°F (74°C) inside.
Enjoy these simple tips to create perfect turkey burgers every time! Serve them with a squeeze of lime for that extra touch.
How to Make Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (keep seeds if you prefer more heat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a splash of water or milk to thin the sauce if needed
For Serving:
- 6 brioche or soft sandwich buns
- Fresh sliced jalapeños
- Corn kernels (fresh or cooked)
- Extra chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 15 minutes to chill the patties. Once cooked, the burgers are ready to serve in about 20-25 minutes, making it a delightful dish you can whip up in under an hour. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or summer cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeño, red onion, minced garlic, honey, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until everything is just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the burgers tender.
2. Form Patties:
Shape the turkey mixture into 6 evenly sized patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Place the patties on a plate and lightly cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This helps them retain their shape while cooking.
3. Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set aside.
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are golden brown.
5. Toast the Buns (Optional):
If desired, lightly toast the brioche buns on a grill or in a toaster for an extra crunchy texture and delightful flavor.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread a generous layer of the creamy avocado sauce onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Place a cooked turkey patty on top. Add a spoonful of fresh corn kernels, a few slices of jalapeños, some chopped red onion, and a few cilantro leaves. Place the top bun over each assembled burger.
7. Serve:
Serve the burgers right away, accompanied by lime wedges on the side. Squeeze lime juice over the top for an added burst of freshness.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with the refreshing creamy avocado sauce that perfectly balances the heat!
FAQ for Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be a great substitute for turkey in this recipe. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may be slightly different, but it will still yield delicious burgers!
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Burgers?
If you prefer milder burgers, remove all the seeds from the jalapeño. You can also use half a jalapeño or replace it with a milder pepper like a green bell pepper. For more heat, include the seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture.
Can I Make the Avocado Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy avocado sauce in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing the container.
How Do I Store Leftover Turkey Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to keep them juicy, consider adding a splash of broth or water while reheating.
