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Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers

Say goodbye to boring turkey burgers! These juicy Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers are packed with flavor — think melty cheese, a kick of jalapeño, fresh lime, and cilantro — and finished with creamy guacamole.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 6 burgers

Notes

Ingredients

For the Burgers:

  • 2 lbs ground turkey
  • ½ cup finely diced onion (white, red, or yellow)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (see note for heat level)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • Juice of ½ lime (about ½ tablespoon)
  • ½ to 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For Serving:

  • 6 soft hamburger buns
  • Guacamole (see quick recipe below)
  • Sliced cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Lettuce, tomato slices

 

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Grill:
    • Heat a charcoal, gas, or pellet grill to medium-high.
    • Lightly oil the grates if needed to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Burger Mixture:
    • In a large bowl, combine all burger ingredients.
    • Mix until everything is evenly combined — don’t overmix.
  3. Shape Patties:
    • Form into 6 patties (adjust size based on your preference or bun size).
  4. Grill the Burgers:
    • Place patties on the grill.
    • Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Rest and Serve:
    • Remove burgers from the grill and tent loosely with foil.
    • Let rest for 3–5 minutes.
    • Serve on buns with guacamole, lettuce, tomato, and cheese slices.

Quick Guacamole Recipe:

  • 2 ripe avocados, mashed
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Optional: a dash of garlic powder or 1 minced garlic clove
Mix everything together in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.

 

Notes & Tips:

  • Jalapeño Heat: For more spice, leave seeds and membranes in the jalapeño. Removing them will give flavor without heat (kid-friendly).
  • No Grill? You can cook these on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat — about 6 minutes per side.
  • Trouble with Patties Falling Apart? If your ground turkey is very soft (especially "tube" turkey), add a few tablespoons of fine breadcrumbs to help them hold together.
  • Serving Idea: Great bunless with lettuce wraps and mango salsa for a lighter option.

 

Nutrition

Calories: 216 kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 93mg | Sodium: 525mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g
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