These Healthy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic! Packed with flavorful turkey, a hint of honey, and a little kick from jalapeños, they’re sure to please your taste buds.
The creamy avocado sauce adds a smooth touch that pairs perfectly with the spicy burgers. I love making these for friends—they always ask for the recipe! And guess what? They’re easy to whip up on busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Use lean turkey for a healthier option. If you can’t find turkey, ground chicken also works well. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using black bean patties or chickpea patties.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add a nice kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can use mild peppers like poblano or bell peppers, or simply skip them entirely.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or basil can be great substitutes, each adding its own unique taste.
Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to sour cream. You can also use regular sour cream, or for a dairy-free option, try plant-based yogurt or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Avocado: Ripe avocados create a creamy sauce. If avocados are out of season, you can try a store-bought guacamole as a time-saving substitute, though it may be less creamy.
How Do You Make Sure the Turkey Burgers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To ensure your turkey burgers are juicy, avoid overmixing the turkey meat. Lightly combine ingredients, as mixing too much can make them tough. It’s also essential to watch the cooking time.
- Cook on medium-high heat and aim for about 5-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If you want extra moisture, you can add a bit of olive oil or extra honey to the mixture!
What’s the Best Way to Make Creamy Avocado Sauce?
The creamy avocado sauce is quick and easy! Just blend ripe avocado with Greek yogurt, garlic, lime juice, and salt until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little water until it’s the consistency you like. For added zing, try adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cumin!
Healthy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers With Creamy Avocado Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1.5 lbs ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced (optional, some can mix inside or keep for topping)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1-2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)
Toppings / Garnishes:
- Fresh corn kernels (raw or lightly grilled)
- Extra sliced jalapeño for topping
- Chopped red onion
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
- Burger buns (lightly toasted)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to cook, making it a total of roughly 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Avocado Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, and salt. Blend everything together until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired thickness. Pop it in the fridge to keep it cool and fresh!
2. Prepare the Turkey Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, finely chopped jalapeños, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently. You want it combined but don’t overmix, as that can make the burgers tough.
3. Form the Burgers:
Shape the turkey mixture into 4 to 6 patties, each about ¾ inch thick, and place them on a plate or tray. You can use your hands to make them or even use a burger press if you have one!
4. Cook the Burgers:
Heat up your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Place the turkey burgers on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are nicely browned.
5. Prepare the Toppings:
While the burgers are cooking, mix some corn kernels with finely chopped red onion and sliced jalapeño if you’d like. This mixture can serve as a fresh relish to top off your burgers.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a pan. On the bottom half of each bun, spread a nice layer of that creamy avocado sauce. Top it with a turkey burger, add the corn-jalapeño relish, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Finally, place the top bun on.
7. Serve:
Serve your delicious turkey burgers immediately with lime wedges on the side for a squeeze of fresh zing! Enjoy your flavorful, slightly spicy, and creamy meal!
FAQ for Healthy Honey Jalapeño Turkey Burgers With Creamy Avocado Sauce
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef for ground turkey if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste, and keep in mind that ground beef might be a bit richer, so you may want to skip the honey if you’re watching sugar content.
What If I Can’t Find Fresh Jalapeños?
No problem! You can use pickled jalapeños in the same amount for a tangy flavor, or crushed red pepper flakes for a milder heat. Just start with a smaller amount, taste it, and adjust as needed!
Can I Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the avocado sauce a day in advance. To keep it from browning, store it in an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Any leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. The creamy avocado sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge.
