These easy turkey burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy garlic aioli, they are sure to be a hit at any meal.
I love how the onions add a lovely sweetness to the savory turkey. You just can’t go wrong with a bit of garlic—who doesn’t love garlic? Perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend using 93% lean turkey for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, 99% lean turkey works too but be mindful it might be dryer.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re out, white onions or even red onions can work, but they will alter the flavor slightly—just adjust your cooking time.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a substitute in a pinch (1/4 tsp = 1 clove). I usually prefer fresh for that strong kick!
Garlic Aioli: Mayonnaise is the base for a creamy aioli. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Some people add a splash of Dijon mustard for a little extra zing.
How Do I Ensure My Turkey Burgers are Juicy?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy is all about careful handling. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, so gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Cooking them at medium heat for the right amount of time also helps.
- Shape patties without pressing down too hard.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
- Avoid flipping burgers too often; once they’re golden brown, it’s time to turn them.
Easy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Garlic Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Sweet Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for depth)
For the Garlic Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Assemble:
- 4 sesame seed sandwich buns, toasted
- Pickle slices (optional)
- Lettuce or other preferred toppings (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to cook. You’ll spend some time caramelizing the onions and preparing the aioli while cooking the turkey burgers, so it should all come together smoothly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized, roughly 25-30 minutes. Just before finishing, stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar (if using) to enhance the sweetness. Set the caramelized onions aside.
2. Make the Garlic Aioli:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined, and then pop it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the burgers.
3. Prepare the Turkey Burgers:
In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Be careful not to overmix—the key to a juicy burger is to keep it tender!
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Form the turkey mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Try not to press down on the patties as they cook, to help maintain that juicy texture.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
After cooking, spread a generous amount of garlic aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place one turkey burger patty on top, then generously add a spoonful of the sweet caramelized onions. If you like, add some pickle slices and any other toppings you fancy before placing the top bun on.
6. Serve:
Enjoy your burgers right away with your preferred sides, like crispy pickles or a fresh salad. Dig in and savor the delicious flavors!
Delight in your tasty turkey burgers, perfectly topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy garlic aioli!
FAQ for Easy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Garlic Aioli
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will provide a similar texture and taste. Just be cautious, as it can be a bit drier than turkey, so consider adding a bit of oil or moisture to the mixture.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar for the Onions?
No worries! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or even red wine vinegar as a substitute. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor profile, but it should still be delicious!
Can I Prepare the Caramelized Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cooked caramelized onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently in a skillet before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the extra turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. If separate, store the aioli and caramelized onions separately to keep everything fresh.
