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Zesty Southwestern Turkey Burgers Recipe

Zesty Southwestern Turkey Burgers


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4.8 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 29 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

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

  1. 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.
  2. Patty Formation: Divide the seasoned turkey mixture into four equal patties, creating uniform thickness to ensure consistent cooking.
  3. Grilling Setup: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high, lightly oiling the surface to prevent sticking and create appetizing sear marks.
  4. 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).
  5. Cheese Topping: During final moments of cooking, layer pepper jack cheese over patties, covering to allow smooth melting and creating a creamy finish.
  6. 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