Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Recipe
These Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, combining lean ground turkey with spicy jalapeño, creamy pepper jack cheese, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfectly grilled to juicy perfection and topped with melty cheese and fresh toppings, these burgers are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that elevates your barbecue or weeknight dinner routine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Burger Mixture
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 pounds (32 oz) 93% lean ground turkey
Optional Toppings
- 6 slices pepper jack cheese
- Hamburger buns
- Sliced jalapeño
- Spicy mayo
- Guacamole
- Tomato slices
- Lettuce
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, shredded pepper jack cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, finely diced jalapeño, Worcestershire sauce, salt, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and black pepper until well combined. Add the ground turkey and gently mix everything together using your hands, a silicone spatula, or wooden spoon, taking care not to overwork the meat to maintain tenderness.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions, about 1/2 cup (170g/6 ounces) each. Shape each portion into a compact, plump patty and press a slight indentation in the center of each to ensure even cooking.
- Chill the Patties: Place the patties on a parchment paper–lined baking sheet, pan, or plate. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours. This chilling step helps the patties hold their shape and allows the flavors to meld. You may also freeze the formed patties for up to 3 months; just thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Preheat and Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat and grease the grill grates generously with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Burgers: Place the chilled turkey patties on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook for 5 minutes on one side. Flip the patties and grill for an additional 3 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F (74°C). Be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness. If using, add a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty during the last 30 seconds of grilling to melt.
- Assemble and Serve: Remove patties from the grill and serve immediately on hamburger buns with your choice of toppings such as sliced jalapeño, spicy mayo, guacamole, tomato slices, and lettuce.
- Storage: Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Using lean ground turkey (93% lean) helps keep the burgers juicy without excess fat.
- Pressing an indentation in the center of each patty prevents them from puffing up too much during grilling.
- Chilling the patties before grilling helps them hold together and enhances flavor melding.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure proper internal temperature for safe consumption.
- Customize toppings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- These patties can be frozen after forming; thaw completely before grilling for best results.
