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Turkey Burgers with Caramelized Onions

Turkey Burgers with Caramelized Onions
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Juicy turkey burgers with sweet caramelized onions offer a healthy, flavorful, and quick homemade meal that is perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Lean ground turkey combined with slowly cooked onions creates a tender, tasty burger that’s lower in fat but bursting with rich, savory-sweet flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Turkey Burgers

  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1 cup finely minced fresh garlic
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

For the Caramelized Onions

  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Pinch of salt

To Serve

  • Buns of choice (brioche, whole wheat, classic hamburger, or gluten-free buns)
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blue cheese), avocado

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt to draw out moisture. Cook slowly, stirring frequently for 30-40 minutes until onions turn golden brown with a sweet, caramelized flavor. Patience is key for perfect sweetness.
  2. Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine without compacting the meat, ensuring tender, juicy patties.
  3. Incorporate Caramelized Onions: Once cooled slightly, fold about half of the caramelized onions into the turkey mixture. Reserve the remaining onions for topping the cooked burgers.
  4. Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions, shaping into patties about ¾ inch thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to promote even cooking and prevent puffing.
  5. Cook the Burgers: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat with a small amount of oil. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties to retain juiciness.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Toast buns if desired. Layer each bun with a cooked turkey patty, a spoonful of reserved caramelized onions, and preferred toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, or pickles. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Caramelize onions low and slow to bring out natural sweetness without burning.
  • Handle turkey mixture gently to avoid compacting, which keeps burgers tender.
  • Indent patties in the center to prevent puffing up during cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure burgers reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Let patties rest a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.
  • Toast buns for extra crunch and to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey burger, caramelized onions, healthy burger, lean meat, quick dinner, gluten-free burger, homemade burger

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/turkey-burgers-with-caramelized-onions/