Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers Recipe

Turkey burgers are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, but they can sometimes lack the juiciness and flavor that beef burgers offer. Enter the Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger – a juicy, flavor-packed alternative that’s perfect for anyone craving a burger with a little heat and a lot of bold, savory flavors.

These turkey burgers are infused with classic Southwest ingredients like chili powder, cumin, garlic, and a dash of hot sauce for the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Topped with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and a bit of cilantro, these burgers are sure to satisfy. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something spicy, these turkey burgers will hit the spot.

Let’s dive into the recipe with all the details and tips you need to make the best Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers from start to finish:

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, green onions, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce (if using).
2. Mix Well: Using your hands or a spatula, gently mix the ingredients together until they are just combined. Be careful not to overwork the turkey mixture, as this can result in tough burgers.
3. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Press down gently in the center of each patty with your thumb to create a small indentation. This helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the center.

Step 2: Cook the Burger Patties

You can cook the turkey burgers in a few different ways: on the grill, in a skillet, or under the broiler. Here are the instructions for each method:

• Grilling:
  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).
  2. Place the burger patties on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are golden brown on the outside.
  3. Optionally, melt a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking for a delicious cheesy addition.
• Pan-Seared:
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil.
  2. Cook the patties in the skillet for about 5-6 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and they are golden brown.
  3. If you want to add cheese, place a slice of cheddar on the patties during the last minute of cooking, covering the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt.
• Broiling:
  1. Preheat your broiler to high.
  2. Place the patties on a broiler-safe pan or a baking sheet lined with foil.
  3. Broil the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning. Again, check the internal temperature to ensure the patties are fully cooked.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns. You can do this in a toaster, under the broiler, or in a skillet for a few minutes, until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

1. Place the toasted burger buns on a clean surface.
2. On the bottom half of each bun, add a layer of lettuce, followed by a cooked turkey patty.
3. Top the turkey patty with a slice of avocado, a spoonful of salsa, a few slices of tomato, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
4. If using cheddar cheese, place it on the turkey patty before assembling the toppings.
5. Place the top bun on the burger and press down gently.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the spicy turkey burgers immediately with your favorite side dishes, like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a light salad. Enjoy the bold Southwest flavors!

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers can be paired with a variety of sides to make the meal more complete. Here are some ideas:

1. Sweet Potato Fries:
   • The sweetness of roasted or crispy sweet potato fries is a great contrast to the spicy turkey burgers.
2. Coleslaw:
   • A creamy, tangy coleslaw helps balance out the heat from the burgers, adding freshness and texture.
3. Grilled Vegetables:
   • Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob make for a wonderful side that complements the Southwest flavors.
4. Quinoa Salad:
   • A light, zesty quinoa salad with corn, black beans, and a lime dressing pairs nicely with the spicy turkey burgers.
5. Mexican Street Corn (Elote):
   • A traditional Mexican dish of grilled corn on the cob, slathered with mayonnaise, lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese, would make a flavorful side dish.

Tips for Perfect Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers

1. Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the turkey mixture, be careful not to overwork it. Overmixing can result in dense, dry patties. Gently mix the ingredients just until they come together.
2. Use Lean Ground Turkey: Use 85% lean ground turkey for a good balance of juiciness and lean protein. Extra-lean turkey can be too dry for burgers.
3. Check the Internal Temperature: Turkey needs to be cooked through, so always check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The burgers should reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.
4. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to suit your spice preference. If you like more heat, add extra cayenne or include diced jalapeños in the patty mix.
5. Add Moisture with Avocado or Salsa: Since turkey burgers tend to be leaner than beef, avocado and salsa are great additions to ensure the burger stays juicy and flavorful.

Variations for Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers

The great thing about turkey burgers is how versatile they are. If you’re looking to switch things up or tailor the recipe to your specific tastes, here are some variations you can try:

1. Add Cheese Inside the Burger

For a gooey, cheesy surprise inside your turkey burger, add a small cube of cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese in the center of each patty before cooking. As the burger cooks, the cheese will melt, creating a deliciously creamy center.

2. Make It Low-Carb or Gluten-Free

For those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, simply omit the breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free breading option or almond flour as a binder. This will ensure the burgers remain gluten-free while still being juicy and flavorful.

3. Swap in Ground Chicken

If you don’t have ground turkey or prefer a lighter option, you can use ground chicken as a substitute. Chicken has a slightly milder flavor than turkey but still holds up well to the Southwest seasonings. Just be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Use Lean Beef for a Beefier Flavor

While the recipe focuses on turkey, you can always swap in lean ground beef if you prefer a beefier flavor. For a similar health-conscious option, choose 90% lean ground beef or even ground bison for a unique twist.

5. Spice Variations

If you love different types of heat, consider using ingredients such as:

• Jalapeños: Add finely diced fresh jalapeños to the burger mixture for an extra burst of heat.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: Blend in finely chopped chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Sriracha Sauce: Instead of the usual hot sauce, use sriracha for a tangy, spicy alternative.

6. Vegan or Plant-Based Option

For a vegan version, replace the turkey with a plant-based meat alternative such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger patties. Simply follow the same seasoning instructions and cook according to the package directions. Vegan cheese can be added, and you can skip the egg by using a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got the perfect Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger, you might be wondering what to serve with it. Here are a few more ideas for delicious sides and drinks to round out the meal:

Sides:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn with a squeeze of lime, chili powder, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese adds a sweet, smoky flavor to complement the spice of the turkey burger.
2. Spicy Sweet Potato Fries: Toss sweet potato fries in a little chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper, then bake or fry until crispy. These are the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
3. Black Bean Salad: A light and refreshing black bean salad with corn, tomatoes, cilantro, and a zesty lime vinaigrette makes a great side dish that aligns with the Southwest theme.
4. Guacamole: Since you’re already using avocado in the burger, why not serve up some homemade guacamole with tortilla chips or fresh veggies? The creamy dip adds a cooling contrast to the heat of the turkey burger.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions complements the Southwest flavors and offers a fresh and savory side to the meal.

Drinks:

1. Iced Margarita: A classic margarita, whether traditional or fruit-flavored, works beautifully with spicy food. A refreshing lime margarita with a salted rim will complement the bold flavors in the burger.
2. Lemonade with a Kick: Make a spicy version of lemonade by adding a dash of jalapeño or cayenne pepper to balance the sweetness with a bit of heat. This is perfect for those who like spicy drinks to match their spicy burgers.
3. Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, pairs well with the turkey burger. You can add a slice of lemon or even infuse it with a bit of mint for a cooling contrast.

Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle building, repair, and keeping you full longer.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: Avocados provide heart-healthy fats, which support brain function and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
• Packed with Fiber: The addition of veggies like tomato, lettuce, and salsa contributes dietary fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied.
• Full of Antioxidants: Spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, and chili powder contain antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties and help boost metabolism.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers

To ensure your turkey burgers turn out juicy and flavorful, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Don’t Overmix the Meat: Overworking ground turkey can lead to dense and dry patties. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
2. Make a Dimple in the Center: Creating a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb helps prevent the burger from puffing up in the middle as it cooks.
3. Check the Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of your turkey burgers with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
4. Add Moisture: Turkey can dry out more easily than beef, so adding ingredients like salsa, cheese, or avocado can help keep the burger moist and flavorful.
5. Use a Nonstick Skillet for Pan-Searing: If you’re pan-searing your turkey burgers, a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan will help keep the patties from sticking and ensure an even, crispy crust.
6. Rest the Burgers: After cooking, let the turkey burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the burgers remain moist.

Conclusion

The Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering plenty of flavor and spice. With a perfect blend of Southwest seasonings and toppings like avocado and salsa, these turkey burgers are sure to become a favorite in your household.

By following the steps outlined above, you can create a burger that’s juicy, flavorful, and packed with the bold, smoky flavors of the Southwest. Whether grilling, broiling, or pan-searing, this recipe will give you the tools to make burgers that are sure to impress. Enjoy the spicy kick and hearty flavors of these amazing burgers!

The Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger recipe is a fantastic, healthy option for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and a little heat. With a delicious combination of Southwest spices, juicy turkey patties, and tasty toppings, these burgers are sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Whether you are grilling, pan-searing, or broiling, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

By following the steps and tips outlined above, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering turkey burger that’s juicy, flavorful, and a hit at any barbecue or family dinner. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility – adjust the seasonings, toppings, and sides to create your perfect Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger.

Enjoy the spice, enjoy the flavor, and most importantly, enjoy the company of those around you!

Yield: 4 Burgers

Spicy Southwest Turkey Burgers Recipe

Print

Turkey burgers are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, but they can sometimes lack the juiciness and flavor that beef burgers offer. Enter the Spicy Southwest Turkey Burger – a juicy, flavor-packed alternative that’s perfect for anyone craving a burger with a little heat and a lot of bold, savory flavors.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for binding)
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• 4 whole wheat or brioche burger buns
• Toppings (optional): avocado slices, lettuce, tomato, spicy mayo, or salsa

Instructions

1. Prepare the burger mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, red onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. If you find the mixture too loose, add breadcrumbs and/or an egg to help bind it together.
2. Form the patties: Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties.
3. Cook the burgers: Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface and cook the turkey burgers for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown on the outside.
4. Toast the buns (optional): While the burgers cook, toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a pan, cut side down, until golden brown.
5. Assemble the burgers: Place each cooked burger patty on a toasted bun. Add your desired toppings such as avocado, lettuce, tomato, spicy mayo, or salsa.
6. Serve: Serve hot with a side of sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or a salad!

Notes

Turkey Selection:
Use 85% lean ground turkey for the best balance of moisture and flavor. Extra-lean turkey can be dry, while lean turkey offers more flavor and juiciness.

Adjusting Spice Level:
The amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance. For less heat, reduce the cayenne or omit the hot sauce; for more heat, increase them.

Binding the Patties:
The breadcrumbs help bind the turkey mixture together, ensuring the patties hold their shape while cooking. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Avoid Overmixing:
To keep the burgers tender, avoid overmixing the turkey mixture. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.

Resting the Patties:
After cooking, let the patties rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices inside the patties and keeps them moist.

Customize Toppings:
Top your burgers with cheddar cheese, avocado, salsa, tomato slices, and cilantro. You can also add pickled jalapeños, guacamole, or sour cream for extra flavor.

Cooking Methods:
Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill for about 5-6 minutes per side.
Pan-searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side.
Broiling: Preheat the broiler and cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the burgers with sides like sweet potato fries, grilled corn on the cob, black bean salad, or a simple green salad.