These easy turkey burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with sweet caramelized onions and a creamy aioli, they make for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Trust me, the combination of those sweet onions and the smooth aioli is a game changer. You’ll want to keep these burgers on your dinner menu! I love serving them with a side of crispy fries.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: The star of the turkey burgers! If you want a leaner option, ground chicken is a great substitute. For added flavor, try using turkey thigh meat instead of breast, as it’s juicier.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind your patties. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I often use crushed crackers as a tasty alternative!
Yellow Onions: These onions are perfect for caramelization due to their natural sweetness. If you want to mix things up, you can use red onions for a slightly different flavor.
Mayonnaise: It’s the base for your aioli. You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy version or avocado mayo for a healthier twist. Homemade mayo is an option too if you have a bit more time!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience! The more time you give them, the sweeter and more flavorful they become. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with medium-low heat and let the butter melt before adding onions.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt to draw out moisture, which helps in the caramelization process.
- Stir occasionally, but don’t rush it! Cook for about 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown. Add more oil or butter if they begin to stick.
Using sugar can help speed up the process and enhance the sweetness, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Turkey Burgers?
Cooking turkey burgers can sometimes be tricky. Here’s how to get them juicy and well-cooked:
- Use a non-stick skillet or grill pan for even cooking.
- Make sure your pan is heated well before adding the patties — you want a nice sear.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring you check the internal temperature for safety. Aim for 165°F (75°C).
Let them rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps keep the juices in!
These tips will ensure your turkey burgers are flavorful and enjoyably juicy!
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
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Creamy Aioli:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced or grated
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns, toasted
- Dill pickle slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This entire recipe takes about 45 minutes to prepare, including 30 minutes for caramelizing onions and about 15 minutes to cook and assemble the burgers. It’s an easy and delightful meal for a weeknight or weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and stir well to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the sugar and a pinch of salt over the onions to help them caramelize. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown and become soft. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Aioli:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it. This aioli adds delicious creaminess to your burgers!
3. Prepare the Turkey Burger Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix as this can make the burgers tough. Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the turkey patties and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). After cooking, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a moment.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Start by spreading a generous amount of creamy aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a turkey burger patty on top, then load on a heap of sweet caramelized onions. If you like pickles, add a few dill slices for a nice crunch. Finally, cap it off with the top half of the bun and serve immediately!
Enjoy these delicious turkey burgers with the delightful sweetness of caramelized onions and the rich, creamy aioli for a fantastic meal! They’re sure to be a hit with everyone.
FAQ for Easy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Creamy Aioli
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will yield similar results. Just ensure it’s well-cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as well.
How Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Faster?
If you’re short on time, you can use a higher heat and cook the onions for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently. Just be cautious not to burn them, and add a splash of water if they start to stick!
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise for the Aioli?
No worries! You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy flavor. Another option is to use avocado to create a creamy, healthier aioli alternative.
Can I Make the Burgers in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey patties ahead of time! Form the patties and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them—just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Feel free to enjoy these tasty turkey burgers at your leisure!
