These turkey burgers are easy to make and packed with fun flavor! Topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy aioli, they’re sure to make your taste buds smile.
Making these burgers is a breeze! I love how the sweet onions add a special touch. Serve them with a side of fries, and you have a tasty meal everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the burger! You can use ground chicken if you prefer, or even lean ground beef for a richer flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, try using black beans or chickpeas mashed with breadcrumbs as a patty base.
Bread Crumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs for these burgers, but if you only have seasoned or panko breadcrumbs, that works too! If you’re gluten-free, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Onions: Sweet onions are perfect for caramelizing because they add a nice sweetness. If you don’t have sweet onions, yellow onions are a great alternative. Red onions can also work, but they’ll bring a slightly different flavor.
Mayonnaise: Homemade aioli is delicious, but if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought mayo. For a healthier twist, consider Greek yogurt or avocado as a substitute.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions can be tricky if you rush it. The key is to cook them low and slow. This process brings out their natural sweetness and creates a rich flavor.
- Start by heating butter and olive oil in your skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the onions and sprinkle them with sugar to help with caramelization.
- Cook them slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring often. Be patient; it’s worth it!
- When they turn golden brown, they are ready! Set them aside while you cook the burgers.
Easy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Creamy Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp sugar
For the Creamy Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For Serving:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Pickle slices (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend some time caramelizing the onions, mixing the turkey patties, and cooking them up. Overall, it’s a simple process that rewards you with delicious burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and are nicely caramelized, about 25-30 minutes. Once done, remove them from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Aioli:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the aioli until you’re ready to use it.
3. Make the Turkey Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined; do not over-mix! Form this mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Assemble the Burgers:
If you’d like, lightly toast the burger buns. Spread a generous layer of the creamy aioli on the bottom bun, place a cooked turkey patty on top, and then layer the sweet caramelized onions over the patty. Cap it with the top bun.
6. Serve:
Enjoy the burgers immediately with some crunchy pickle slices on the side. These delicious turkey burgers are sure to be a hit!
Now dig in and enjoy your juicy, flavorful turkey burgers with the perfect balance of sweet onions and creamy aioli!
FAQ
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or lean ground beef works well as substitutes for ground turkey. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mixture of mashed black beans, chickpeas, or even a store-bought veggie burger.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the turkey patties and caramelized onions in advance. Form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. The caramelized onions can be made a day ahead and kept in the refrigerator, then reheated before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Just be cautious not to overcook them!
Can I Use Store-Bought Aioli Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! Store-bought aioli is a convenient option and can save you time. Feel free to choose your favorite brand or flavor to customize your burgers!
