These juicy turkey burgers are a tasty twist on the classic! Topped with sweet caramelized onions and a smooth, creamy aioli, they are a hit at any cookout.
Who can resist a burger with such yummy toppings? I often whip these up for friends and they disappear fast. Just remember to keep some extra napkins handy! 😄
I love how easy these turkey burgers are to make. Just mix the meat, grill them up, and pile on the toppings for a fun meal everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I recommend using 93% lean for juicy burgers without being too greasy. If you prefer, substitute with ground chicken or even lean beef for a different flavor.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness during cooking. If you want a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia or even shallots for a unique twist.
Mayonnaise: For the aioli, feel free to replace regular mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier version. You could even use a vegan mayo if that’s your preference!
Breadcrumbs: Use regular or panko breadcrumbs for texture. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats as a substitute.
How Do You Get Your Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions is a slow process that turns them sweet and golden. Here’s my method:
- Heat butter and olive oil on medium-low. This combo prevents the butter from burning.
- Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with salt. Stir occasionally but let them cook.
- If you want extra sweetness, you can add a teaspoon of sugar after 10 minutes.
- Cook for about 25-30 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. Patience is key!
This step adds so much flavor to your burgers! Keep an eye on them; just a little stirring and you can enjoy perfectly caramelized onions.
Juicy Turkey Burgers with Sweet Caramelized Onions and Creamy Aioli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For The Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to enhance sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For The Creamy Aioli:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To Assemble:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns, toasted
- Pickle slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30-40 minutes for cooking and caramelizing the onions. In total, you should set aside about 1 hour to prepare, cook, and assemble these delicious burgers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
Begin by heating the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions and season with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. After this time, you can sprinkle sugar over the onions if you want an extra sweet flavor. Continue cooking for 25-30 minutes until the onions turn a beautiful, deep golden brown. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from burning. Once ready, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Make the Turkey Burger Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! Form the mixture into 4 equal patties about the size of your burger buns. Make sure to place them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
3. Prepare the Aioli:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Cover and refrigerate the aioli until you are ready to assemble your burgers.
4. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
In a large skillet or grill pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey patties to the pan, cooking for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remember, do not press down on the patties while cooking to keep them juicy!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
To assemble, start by spreading a generous layer of creamy aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Next, place the cooked turkey patty on top, followed by a generous spoonful of sweet caramelized onions over each patty. Cap it off with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately with pickle slices on the side if you like!
Enjoy your juicy turkey burgers with the perfect balance of sweet onions and creamy aioli!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leaner Ground Turkey or Other Meats?
Yes, you can use leaner ground turkey, but it may be less juicy. For alternative meats, ground chicken or lean beef will work well, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You might want to refresh the aioli with a bit more garlic or lemon juice when serving again.
What If I Don’t Like Onions?
If you’re not a fan of onions, you can omit the caramelized onions or substitute them with sautéed mushrooms or roasted peppers for a delicious alternative topping.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the burgers, and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise are gluten-free. Check labels to be certain!
