Southwest Turkey Burgers

Why You’ll Love Southwest Turkey Burgers Recipe

These Southwest Turkey Burgers are a lighter, yet flavorful, alternative to traditional beef burgers. The turkey is seasoned with a variety of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and garlic, creating a deliciously smoky and slightly spicy burger. Topped with fresh ingredients like avocado, salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese, these burgers are perfect for anyone looking for a fresh twist on a classic. Plus, they’re quick to make and easily customizable to fit your flavor preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling or cooking)

• Burger buns (whole wheat or gluten-free for a healthier option)

• Toppings: avocado slices, salsa, lettuce, tomato, or any toppings of your choice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, red onion, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

2. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.

3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, or preheat your grill to medium-high.

4. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are golden brown.

5. If you’re adding cheese, place a slice of cheddar on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover the pan to melt the cheese.

6. Toast the burger buns, if desired.

7. Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a bun and adding your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, lettuce, and tomato.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 12 minutes

• Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the turkey mixture for an extra spicy kick.

• Cheese: You can swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or any other cheese you prefer.

• Vegetarian: For a vegetarian option, swap the turkey for a black bean or lentil patty.

• Grilled: Instead of cooking them in a skillet, these turkey burgers can be grilled outdoors for a smoky flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns for a completely gluten-free burger.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the patties in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm them up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different meat for these burgers?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or beef if you prefer. Ground chicken is a great lean option that still pairs well with the spices.

How can I make these burgers more flavorful?

You can add extra spices like chili flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat. Additionally, marinating the patties for 30 minutes before cooking can help the flavors develop.

Can I freeze the patties for later?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey mixture and form the patties a day ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and cook them when you’re ready.

What kind of toppings go well with these turkey burgers?

Toppings like avocado, salsa, lettuce, tomato, and even a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt work great. You can also add pickled jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I make these burgers without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can skip the breadcrumbs and use rolled oats or almond flour as a binder, or you can simply omit them if you’re making these burgers gluten-free.

How do I know when the turkey burgers are done cooking?

Turkey burgers should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.

How do I keep these burgers from being too dry?

Make sure you don’t overcook the turkey patties. Since turkey is lean, it can dry out easily. Keeping the patties moist by adding a little olive oil or cheese can help, and don’t overwork the meat when mixing.

Can I make these burgers without cheese?

Absolutely! The burgers are delicious without cheese, or you can top them with a non-dairy cheese alternative if you prefer.

How can I make the burgers spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños to the turkey mixture or drizzle hot sauce on the burger after assembling. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add a bit of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Southwest Turkey Burgers are a flavorful and healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, with the perfect blend of smoky spices and fresh ingredients. These burgers are easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for a quick dinner or a backyard cookout. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food, or prefer a milder flavor, these turkey burgers are sure to please everyone at the table. Try them today and enjoy a fresh take on a classic favorite!