These juicy turkey burgers are a tasty twist on the classic. With the addition of sweet balsamic caramelized onions, they’re bursting with flavor!
I love how the savory turkey and the sticky onions complement each other. They make a simple burger feel special, perfect for a fun weeknight dinner! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Use ground turkey thigh for a juicier result. If you need a leaner option, ground turkey breast works too, but be cautious of overcooking since it can dry out.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, you can use shallots for a milder flavor or even red onions for a colorful twist.
Balsamic Vinegar: A must for the caramelized onions! If needed, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, just adjust the sweetness with a little extra brown sugar if necessary.
Breadcrumbs: These help with binding the turkey patties. If gluten-free, opt for almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. I often skip them if I’m looking to keep things light!
Cheese: Swiss and cheddar work well! If you want something different, try blue cheese for a bolder taste. Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Ensure My Turkey Burgers Stay Juicy?
Keeping turkey burgers juicy is easy with a few tricks! First, use ground turkey with a bit of fat, like dark meat. Mixing in grated onion and garlic not only adds flavor but also moisture.
- Handle the meat gently; over-mixing can make the burgers tough.
- Don’t skip the resting step after cooking! Letting the patties sit for a couple of minutes helps retain juices.
If you’re cooking on a skillet, make sure it’s medium-high, so you get a nice sear without drying out the interior. Happy cooking!
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Balsamic Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (preferably dark meat for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for texture)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Balsamic Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Hamburger buns (toasted)
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Optional: cheese slices (e.g., Swiss, cheddar)
- Condiments of choice (mustard, mayo, ketchup, etc.)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking, so in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to make these delicious turkey burgers. Get your ingredients ready, and let’s cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Balsamic Caramelized Onions:
Start by melting the butter with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook these, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until they become soft and golden brown. Add the brown sugar and stir to mix well. Then, pour in the balsamic vinegar and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the onions are sticky and caramelized. Season with black pepper to taste, and then set the onions aside.
2. Make the Turkey Burgers:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, grated onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you’d like to use the egg and breadcrumbs for binding and texture, add those to the mix as well. Gently mix all the ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the burgers tender. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the turkey patties in the pan and cook for approximately 5-6 minutes per side, until they are browned on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you want to add cheese, put a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking, covering the pan to help melt the cheese.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
Toast your hamburger buns lightly while the patties finish cooking. To assemble, start with the bottom bun and add a leaf of lettuce, then place a turkey burger patty on top. Generously spoon the balsamic caramelized onions over each burger, followed by tomato slices and any other condiments you prefer. Top it all off with the top bun.
5. Serve:
Enjoy your delicious turkey burgers immediately! They go great with sides like sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or crunchy chips. Dig in and savor the juicy flavors!
FAQs about Juicy Turkey Burgers with Balsamic Caramelized Onions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Breast Instead of Dark Meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey breast for a leaner option, but keep in mind that it may result in a drier burger. To retain moisture, consider adding a bit more grated onion or including a tablespoon of olive oil into the mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Balsamic Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the balsamic caramelized onions in advance and refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Simply reheat them in a pan over medium heat before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free or lower-carb alternative, try using almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. You could also omit the breadcrumbs entirely, especially if you’re keeping the burger mixture moist with grated onions and the egg.
