These turkey burgers are juicy and packed with flavor, topped with deliciously sweet caramelized onions. They make a great choice for a quick and tasty meal!
Honestly, the caramelized onions are the real stars here. They add a sweet twist that makes each bite feel special. I love serving these burgers with a side of crispy fries—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: I prefer using lean ground turkey for a healthier burger. However, if you can’t find it, ground chicken can work just as well. Just avoid very lean mixes, as they can dry out.
Onions: Yellow onions are the best for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. If you prefer, you can use white onions or even red onions for a slightly different taste.
Olive Oil and Butter: This combination adds great flavor to the onions. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, use just olive oil or switch to vegan butter.
Sugar: I add a teaspoon of sugar to help the caramelization process. If you prefer not to use it, honey or maple syrup could work as natural alternatives.
Buns: I love sesame or everything bagel buns for their flavor. You can easily swap these for whole wheat or gluten-free buns as needed.
What’s the Best Way to Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions is the key to that sweet flavor that complements the turkey burgers perfectly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-low heat; patience is key here.
- Use a mix of olive oil and butter in a heavy skillet.
- Once the onions go in, stir to coat them evenly.
- Sprinkle sugar over the onions to help with browning—this is optional but really helps!
- Cook them gently for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, adding a splash of water if they stick to the pan.
- Look for a deep golden brown color and a soft texture before removing them from heat.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have beautiful caramelized onions that take your burgers to the next level! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Easy Turkey Burgers With Sweet Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb ground turkey (preferably lean but not too dry)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking burgers)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to aid caramelization)
For Assembling:
- 4 sandwich burger buns (preferably sesame or everything bagel style)
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise (or creamy sandwich spread; optional: mix with a little garlic powder or Dijon mustard for flavor)
- Pickle slices, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes total, including cooking and caramelizing the onions. So set aside a little over half an hour, and you’ll be enjoying delicious turkey burgers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Once it’s warm, add the thinly sliced onions and stir to make sure they are all coated. Sprinkle the sugar over the onions; this helps them caramelize. Let them cook slowly, stirring every once in a while, until they become a deep golden brown and really soft, which should take about 25-30 minutes. If you notice they start to stick to the pan, just add a splash of water to help lift them off and continue cooking. Once done, remove the onions from the heat and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Turkey Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon – you want to combine everything without overworking the meat, which makes the patties tough. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, making them a little bigger than your buns, as they will shrink while cooking.
3. Cook the Turkey Burgers:
Now, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet or on a grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the turkey patties to the pan. Cook each patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a nice golden-brown color on the outside.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, slice your burger buns in half. If you’d like, you can lightly toast them in a dry skillet or in the oven until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a layer of mayonnaise or your preferred creamy spread on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cooked turkey patty on top, then add a generous portion of the sweet caramelized onions. Finally, top it with the other half of the bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your turkey burgers warm with some pickle slices on the side for an extra crunch. Enjoy this delicious meal right away! They are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when hosting friends over for a casual cookout.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful turkey burgers paired with the delightful sweetness of caramelized onions—it’s a combination you won’t forget!
FAQ for Easy Turkey Burgers With Sweet Caramelized Onions
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey?
Yes, you can use frozen ground turkey! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting if you’re in a hurry. Pat it dry before mixing, as excess moisture can make the patties soggy.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Leftover turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. The caramelized onions can also be reheated separately!
Can I Prepare the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a skillet before topping your burgers to restore their deliciousness.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise in the Burger?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free spread as a substitute for mayonnaise. You can also add some mustard or avocado for a creamy texture and unique flavor!
