Description
Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers are juicy, flavorful patties infused with bold southwestern spices, fresh jalapeños, and cilantro. This quick and easy recipe offers a healthy, lean alternative to traditional burgers with a zesty kick, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts. Customizable and great for meal prep, these burgers bring vibrant southwestern flavors to your table effortlessly.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tsp chipotle powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup diced fresh jalapeños
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey with chipotle powder, cumin, paprika, diced jalapeños, minced garlic, chopped onion, cilantro, egg, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined, careful not to overwork the meat to keep burgers tender.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions and shape into patties roughly ¾ inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to ensure even cooking and prevent puffing.
- Cook the Burgers: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip carefully once to maintain a good sear.
- Rest and Assemble: Allow the burgers to rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices before serving. Assemble with buns and preferred toppings like avocado slices, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, or chipotle mayo.
Notes
- Don’t overwork the meat to maintain tender burgers rather than dense patties.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and optimal juiciness.
- Chill patties for at least 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape better.
- Adjust the spice level gradually by adding jalapeños or chipotle powder according to taste.
- Lightly toast buns to add texture and prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling / Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (without bun and toppings)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: turkey burgers, southwest, spicy, chipotle, healthy burgers, jalapeño, quick dinner, meal prep
