These Healthy Balsamic Turkey Burgers are a tasty twist on your classic burger! Made with ground turkey and mixed with sweet balsamic vinegar, they offer a juicy bite every time.
Top them with caramelized onions for a sweet, rich flavor that pairs perfectly. I love skipping the fryer and grilling them instead—it makes for a quick and healthy meal! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Using lean ground turkey makes these burgers healthier. If you prefer something richer, you could substitute with ground chicken or even ground beef, but keep in mind that beef will be heavier.
Balsamic Vinegar: This ingredient adds a sweet tanginess. If you’re out of balsamic, red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of honey can be a good alternative.
Yellow Onions: For caramelizing, yellow onions work great because of their sweetness. You could also try red onions for a slightly different flavor, but it’s best to avoid white onions since they can be more pungent.
Cheese: Provolone or mozzarella cheese adds a nice melt to the burgers. If you want a stronger flavor, consider blue cheese or goat cheese as substitutions.
What’s the Best Way to Caramelize Onions?
Getting those onions nicely caramelized is key for great flavor! Here’s how you do it:
- Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. This allows the onions to cook slowly and evenly.
- Add the thinly sliced onions, stirring them occasionally. The slow cooking is crucial—if you rush it with high heat, they could burn instead of caramelizing!
- About halfway through, sprinkle on some salt to help draw out the moisture from the onions. This also enhances their natural sweetness.
- Cook for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are soft and deeply golden brown. Stir in balsamic vinegar in the last few minutes to add a nice glaze. Enjoy the aroma!
These tips will help you elevate your turkey burgers to the next level! Enjoy your cooking!
Healthy Balsamic Turkey Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 pound (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling:
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
- 4 slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: lettuce, tomato slices, mustard, or other favorite toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 30-35 minutes for cooking, bringing your total to about 50 minutes. The caramelizing of onions will take the longest, but trust me, it’s worth the wait for that sweet flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them slowly and stirring occasionally until they turn soft and golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. Sprinkle in the salt to help draw out moisture. When the onions are perfectly caramelized, mix in the balsamic vinegar and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Turkey Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything is just combined—being careful not to overwork the meat as that can make the patties tough. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each one into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
3. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the grill or pan to let it melt nicely.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
If you like, you can toast the whole wheat buns for a bit of crunch. Start with the bottom bun, add the turkey patty topped with melted cheese, and generously pile on the warm caramelized onions. Feel free to add any additional toppings you enjoy. Finally, place the top bun on and serve immediately.
This recipe makes delicious, juicy turkey burgers that are packed with flavor. The sweet tanginess of the balsamic vinegar combined with the rich caramelized onions makes for a truly delightful and healthy meal!
FAQs About Healthy Balsamic Turkey Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield a similarly delicious burger. Just be cautious about the fat content, as ground chicken can vary in leanness.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers and Onions?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the turkey patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The caramelized onions can be gently reheated in a pan or in the microwave as well.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the caramelized onions a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve the burgers, simply reheat the onions in a skillet until warm.
What Toppings Pair Well with These Burgers?
These burgers are delicious with a variety of toppings! Consider adding fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, avocado, or mustard. For an extra kick, you could also try spicy aioli or barbecue sauce.
Feel free to ask more questions if you have any concerns while preparing your turkey burgers! Enjoy your cooking!
