Jalapeño Turkey Burger with Pepper Jack and Avocado (31 Minutes)

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The jalapeño turkey burger offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that bring a spicy kick to the classic burger.

This burger features a juicy turkey patty infused with finely chopped jalapeños, layered with creamy avocado, melty pepper jack cheese, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, and sharp onion.

It’s all nestled between the halves of a soft bun, making for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for spice lovers looking to enjoy a healthier burger option.

  • Prep Time: 21 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 31 minutes
  • Yield: 4 burgers 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the turkey burgers:

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 medium jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

For assembling the burgers:

  • 4 burger buns, split and toasted
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 4 slices pepper jack cheese
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  • 4 slices tomato
  • 4 slices red onion

Instructions

  1. Prepare the turkey patties (15 minutes):
    • In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped jalapeño, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
    • Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form each into a patty slightly larger than your bun to allow for shrinkage during cooking.
  2. Cook the turkey patties (10 minutes):
    • Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a little oil to prevent sticking.
    • Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty to melt.
  3. Assemble the burgers (5 minutes):
    • Spread mashed avocado on the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
    • Place a cooked turkey patty on top of the avocado.
    • Add a lettuce leaf to each burger, followed by a slice of tomato and a slice of onion.
    • Cover with the top halves of the buns.
  4. Serve (1 minute):
    • Serve the burgers immediately, with your choice of side dishes such as sweet potato fries or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Notes

The jalapeño turkey burger is a fantastic way to spice up burger night with a healthy twist. The combination of creamy avocado and spicy jalapeño within the burger makes each bite a perfect blend of flavors.

For those who desire even more heat, consider adding a spicy mayo or additional jalapeño slices as a topping.

This burger is best enjoyed fresh, but the patties can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight if needed. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 burger
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 32g

Pair this with...

Oven Fries

To start, grab a couple of good-sized spuds and slice them into wedges, not too thick or thin. Now, toss them in a mixing bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and whatever seasonings you fancy - maybe some paprika, garlic powder, or even rosemary. Spread them out on a baking sheet, making sure they aren't crowded so they get crispy all around. Pop them into a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). Give 'em about 25-30 minutes, but flip them halfway so they get golden brown on both sides. Once they're crispy outside and soft inside, they're done! Pull them out, let them cool just a smidge, and then dive in.

Fried Pickles

Start by grabbing a jar of your favorite pickles and slice them into coin shapes. Get 'em on some paper towels to blot out the excess moisture – the drier, the crispier they'll get. In one bowl, whisk up some eggs, and in another, mix together flour or breadcrumbs with seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne if you're feeling spicy. Dip each pickle coin into the egg, then into the dry mix, making sure it's well coated. Heat some oil in a skillet until it's shimmering but not smoking. Carefully slide those coated pickles in and fry until they're golden and crispy. It's usually quick, so keep an eye out! Scoop them out, let them rest on a paper towel to get rid of any excess oil, and serve with a dipping sauce.

Leafy Greens Side Salad

Kick things off with a bed of your favorite mixed greens—whether it's spinach, arugula, romaine, or a combination of all. Next, layer on thinly sliced red onion, adding a sharp and colorful zing. Slice a cucumber into neat rounds, offering cool and refreshing bites throughout the salad. Halve some juicy cherry tomatoes and scatter them in, lending their sweet-tart bursts. Finally, dot the salad with pitted green olives, introducing a briny depth. For dressing, a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper does wonders. Drizzle it over the salad, toss everything gently, and serve.

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