Description
These Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers are a flavorful twist on a classic burger, featuring spicy jalapeño, melted pepper jack cheese, and a blend of smoky spices. Juicy and packed with bold flavors, they’re perfect for grilling season or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Turkey Burger Mixture
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 pounds (32 oz) 93% lean ground turkey
Optional Toppings
- 6 slices pepper jack cheese
- Hamburger buns
- Sliced jalapeño
- Spicy mayo
- Guacamole
- Tomato slices
- Lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, shredded pepper jack cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, Worcestershire sauce, salt, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and black pepper until well combined. Add the ground turkey and gently mix with your hands, a silicone spatula, or wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 compact patties, each approximately 1/2 cup or 170 grams (6 ounces). Press a slight indentation into the center of each patty to help ensure even cooking and prevent puffing up during grilling.
- Chill the Patties: Place the patties on a parchment paper–lined baking sheet, plate, or baking pan. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld and patties to firm up. For longer storage, freeze up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Grease the grill grates thoroughly with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Preheat the grill to high heat for optimal searing.
- Grill the Burgers: Place the chilled turkey patties on the hot grill, close the lid, and cook for 5 minutes. Flip the burgers and continue grilling for an additional 3 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked but remain juicy. Add cheese slices to the burgers during the last 30 seconds if using.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the turkey burgers on hamburger buns with your choice of toppings such as sliced jalapeños, spicy mayo, guacamole, tomato, and lettuce for a delicious meal.
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover turkey burgers refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Pressing an indentation in the center of each patty prevents it from bulging in the middle and helps cook evenly.
- Do not overcook turkey burgers to keep them moist and tender; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Optional cheese slices can be melted on the burgers near the end of cooking for extra cheesiness.
- Chilling patties before grilling helps them hold together and enhances flavor melding.
- Ground turkey labeled 93% lean is ideal for juicy yet healthier burgers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
