These turkey burgers are a tasty mix of sweet honey and spicy jalapeño, giving each bite a little kick! Topped with a creamy avocado sauce, they are super satisfying.
Making these burgers is as fun as enjoying them! I love how easy it is to whip up that avocado sauce. You have to try it—it’s a game changer for burgers! 🥑🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the base of the burgers. You can use ground chicken or a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for something different. Just ensure any substitutes are seasoned well to keep the flavor vibrant.
Jalapeños: These add a spicy kick! If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds or switch to a milder pepper like poblano. For extra spice, use serrano peppers instead.
Honey: It sweetens the patties nicely. If you want to avoid sugar, use maple syrup or agave syrup as substitutes—both work well!
Avocado: It adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re out of avocados, try using ripe mashed bananas for a unique twist (though it will change the flavor quite a bit).
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Avocado Sauce?
Creating a smooth and creamy avocado sauce is key for these burgers. Here are some steps to ensure it comes out just right:
- Start by scooping out a ripe avocado into a blender or food processor. Ensure it’s fully ripe for the best creamy texture.
- Add the sour cream or Greek yogurt for tanginess. You can adjust the amount based on your preference for creaminess.
- Include garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper, and blend until smooth. If it’s too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. A splash more lime juice can brighten it up!
Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeded for less heat)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)
For Construction:
- 4 brioche or sandwich buns, toasted
- Fresh corn kernels (about 1/2 cup)
- Additional sliced jalapeños (for topping)
- Additional chopped red onion (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro sprigs
- Lime wedges (to serve)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these flavorful burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the burger mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the finely chopped jalapeños, honey, red onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, or the burgers can become tough!
2. Form the patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty, slightly flattened, to ensure they cook evenly. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them keep their shape while cooking.
3. Cook the burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the turkey patties to the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the patties from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
4. Make the creamy avocado sauce:
While the burgers are cooking, scoop the flesh of the ripe avocado into a blender or food processor. Add in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Assemble the burgers:
Take the toasted buns and spread a generous amount of the creamy avocado sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place a turkey burger patty on top, then pile on fresh corn kernels, sliced jalapeños, chopped red onion, and sprigs of fresh cilantro.
6. Finish and serve:
Top each burger with the bun tops. Serve the burgers with lime wedges on the side so everyone can squeeze fresh lime juice over their burger for that added zing. Enjoy your flavorful and delicious Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers!
FAQ for Easy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute for ground turkey. Just keep in mind that chicken can be slightly leaner, so you may want to add a little extra moisture, such as a splash of olive oil or an extra tablespoon of honey, to keep the burgers juicy.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you love heat, try adding more jalapeños or incorporating some diced serrano peppers into the burger mixture. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy avocado sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! The turkey burger patties can be formed a day ahead and stored in the fridge, covered. You can also prepare the creamy avocado sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container. Just make sure to add a little extra lime juice to help prevent browning.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers and avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the burgers in a skillet or microwave, and enjoy the sauce cold or at room temperature. If you’re reheating, you might want to add a little fresh lime juice to the sauce for brightness!
