Description
This flavorful turkey burger recipe combines juicy ground turkey with a blend of smoky and spicy seasonings, including chipotle and smoked paprika, for a deliciously bold taste. Served with a creamy chipotle mayo and fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro, these burgers can be cooked on the stovetop, grilled, or baked for convenience. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal that satisfies your burger cravings with a lighter twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Turkey Burgers
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil (plus more for frying)
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos
- 1 teaspoon crushed chipotle chile pepper flakes (or less, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 lb ground turkey
Chipotle Mayo
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon chipotle chile powder (or more crushed chipotle chile pepper)
Optional for Serving
- Burger buns
- Salsa
- Avocado, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare Turkey Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together avocado oil, coconut aminos, crushed chipotle chile pepper flakes, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, chopped fresh cilantro, and sea salt until well combined. Add the ground turkey and gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the patties tender.
- Shape Patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Make an indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps prevent the burgers from bulging while cooking.
- Cook on Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of avocado oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through.
- Bake in Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 16-18 minutes. After baking, broil the patties for 2-3 minutes to achieve a browned and slightly crispy exterior.
- Grill Burgers: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached.
- Check Doneness: Regardless of cooking method, ensure the burgers reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let the patties rest for 5 minutes to allow the temperature to rise to a safe 165°F (74°C) for serving.
- Make Chipotle Mayo: While the burgers cook, whisk together mayonnaise and chipotle chile powder in a small bowl until smooth and combined. Adjust the amount of chipotle powder to taste.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve turkey burgers on toasted buns (if using) topped with a generous spread of chipotle mayo, thin slices of avocado, fresh cilantro leaves, and your favorite salsa for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Do not overmix the turkey mixture to maintain juicy and tender burgers.
- The thumbprint indentation in the patties helps prevent puckering during cooking.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the burgers are thoroughly cooked to a safe temperature.
- For a dairy-free option, use a vegan mayo or your preferred alternative.
- Burgers can be cooked on the stovetop, baked in the oven, or grilled depending on your preference and equipment.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
