Description
Simple southwestern turkey burgers blend zesty spices with lean protein for a quick, flavorful meal. Jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and cilantro create a spicy southwestern profile that will satisfy your craving for bold, exciting flavors.
Ingredients
																
							Scale
													
									
			- 1.25 lbs (567 g) ground turkey
 - 4 slices pepper jack cheese
 - 1 large egg
 - 0.33 cup bread crumbs
 - 1 tsp chili powder
 - 1 tsp cumin
 - 0.5 tsp salt
 - 0.5 jalapeño, finely diced
 - 0.25 cup red onion, finely diced
 - Guacamole, for topping
 
Instructions
- Preparation: Combine ground turkey with jalapeño, red onion, chili powder, cumin, salt, egg, and breadcrumbs in a mixing bowl, mixing gently to distribute seasonings evenly without compressing the meat.
 - Patty Formation: Divide the seasoned turkey mixture into four equal patties, creating uniform thickness to ensure consistent cooking.
 - Grilling Setup: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high, lightly oiling the surface to prevent sticking and create appetizing sear marks.
 - Cooking Process: Place turkey patties on the heated surface, cooking undisturbed for 6-7 minutes per side until achieving a deep golden-brown crust and internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
 - Cheese Topping: During final moments of cooking, layer pepper jack cheese over patties, covering to allow smooth melting and creating a creamy finish.
 - Assembly: Transfer cooked burgers to a plate, crown with fresh guacamole, and nestle into chosen bun – brioche or whole wheat – completing the spicy, flavorful turkey burger experience.
 
Caution: Handle jalapeños with gloves or wash hands thoroughly after preparation to prevent skin irritation.
Notes
- Prevent Meat Overworking: Gently mix ingredients to maintain turkey’s tender texture and avoid dense, tough patties.
 - Manage Jalapeño Handling: Wear gloves or wash hands immediately after chopping to prevent skin irritation and accidental eye contact.
 - Check Temperature Precisely: Use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F internal temperature, ensuring safe and juicy turkey burgers.
 - Cheese Melting Technique: Cover grill during final cooking moments to create perfectly melted, creamy pepper jack cheese topping.
 
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 - Cook Time: 14 minutes
 - Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
 - Method: Grilling
 - Cuisine: Southwestern American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
 - Calories: 410
 - Sugar: 1g
 - Sodium: 500mg
 - Fat: 22g
 - Saturated Fat: 9g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 10g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 27g
 - Fiber: 2g
 - Protein: 30g
 - Cholesterol: 100mg