These turkey burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with sweet balsamic caramelized onions, they’re a tasty twist on your usual burger night.
Trust me, those onions make all the difference! I often find myself piling them on, because who can resist that sweet goodness? 🍔
Making these burgers is super easy. Just grill them up, add those delicious onions, and you have a meal everyone will love—perfect for summer cookouts!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star ingredient for making juicy burgers. If you prefer a different meat, lean ground chicken or even beef can work well as substitutes.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing because of their sweetness. If you’re out, you can use sweet onions, or even red onions for a slightly different flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds depth and sweetness to the onions. If you don’t have balsamic, red wine vinegar can substitute nicely, though it may be less sweet.
Breadcrumbs: These help to bind the turkey patties. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oat flour as an alternative.
How Can I Ensure My Turkey Burgers Stay Juicy?
It’s important to avoid overworking the turkey meat! Mix everything just until combined, then shape the patties without squishing them too much. This keeps them tender.
- Keep the patties about 3/4 inch thick for even cooking.
- Cook them at medium-high heat to achieve a nice brown crust without drying out the inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C). No guesswork needed!
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Balsamic Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Balsamic Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to enhance caramelization)
- Salt to taste
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Cheese slices (cheddar or Swiss, optional)
- Condiments of choice (mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes making delicious, juicy turkey burgers topped with sweet balsamic caramelized onions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Balsamic Caramelized Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, which should take about 25-30 minutes. For added sweetness, stir in sugar if you’d like, followed by the balsamic vinegar. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vinegar has reduced and the onions are sticky and caramelized. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Turkey Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix! Just gently combine until everything is mixed. Once mixed, divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties that are about 3/4 inch thick.
3. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a skillet or on the grill over medium-high heat. Cook each turkey patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they achieve a golden-brown color on the outside. If you want to add cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover to help it melt.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the burger buns lightly on a grill or in a toaster until they’re warm and slightly crisp.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by spreading your preferred condiments on the bottom half of each bun. Add a lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato. Place the cooked turkey burger on top, and then generously add the balsamic caramelized onions on each patty. Close the burgers with the top bun and serve them immediately while they’re warm and inviting!
Enjoy your juicy turkey burgers with sweet and tangy balsamic caramelized onions! 🍔
FAQ for Juicy Turkey Burgers with Balsamic Caramelized Onions
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute for turkey in this recipe. Just keep in mind that chicken can sometimes be slightly leaner than turkey, so be sure to keep an eye on cooking time to avoid drying out the patties.
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Any leftover turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture while reheating.
What Can I Serve Instead of Burger Buns?
If you’re looking for healthier or low-carb options, consider wrapping the burgers in lettuce leaves or serving them on whole grain pita bread. You can also use portobello mushrooms as a bun alternative for a fun twist!
Is It Necessary to Use Sugar in the Onions?
The sugar is optional and helps enhance the caramelization process, but if you prefer, you can omit it. The balsamic vinegar alone will create a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor in the onions!
