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Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers Recipe

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4.5 from 125 reviews

These Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers are a flavorful twist on classic turkey burgers, packed with minced jalapeños, smoky spices, and a creamy, cheesy jalapeño popper topping that features cream cheese, Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, and crispy beef bacon. Perfect for a spicy, satisfying meal served on toasted buns with fresh lettuce and tomato slices.

Ingredients

For the Patties

  • 1 ½ lbs lean ground turkey
  • 2 medium jalapeños, finely minced (remove seeds/membrane for less heat)
  • ¼ cup finely minced red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Jalapeño Popper Topping

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 slices thick-cut beef bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (remove seeds/membrane for less heat)
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped

To Serve

  • 4-6 burger buns, toasted
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Optional additional toppings: extra fresh jalapeño slices, avocado slices or guacamole, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing, pickled red onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatics: Finely mince 2 medium jalapeños (removing seeds and membranes for less heat if desired), ¼ cup red onion, and 2 cloves garlic to have all pattie ingredients ready before combining.
  2. Combine the patty ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix ground turkey with the minced jalapeños, red onion, garlic, Panko breadcrumbs, egg, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until all ingredients are incorporated to avoid making the burgers tough.
  3. Shape the patties: Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions, shaping each into a ¾–1 inch thick patty slightly wider than your buns, and press a shallow dimple in the center of each to promote even cooking.
  4. Prepare the bacon: Cook 2 slices of thick-cut beef bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels, allow to cool, then crumble into small pieces for the topping.
  5. Prepare topping ingredients: Finely mince 1 small jalapeño (again, remove seeds/membranes for less heat if preferred) and finely chop 2 tablespoons of fresh chives.
  6. Mix the jalapeño popper topping: In a medium bowl, smooth out the softened cream cheese. Fold in shredded Monterey Jack, shredded sharp cheddar, crumbled bacon, minced jalapeño, and chopped chives. Mix well and season to taste.
  7. Cook the patties: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your grill. Cook the patties 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), avoiding pressing down on them to retain juiciness.
  8. Add the topping and melt: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, spread a generous spoonful of the creamy jalapeño popper topping over each patty. Cover the pan or close the grill lid briefly to help the cheese melt perfectly.
  9. Rest and toast buns: Remove the burgers to a plate and loosely tent with foil to rest for 5 minutes. While the burgers rest, toast your buns on the grill, in a skillet, or under the broiler.
  10. Assemble and serve: Place lettuce leaves on the bottom half of each bun, add the burger with melted topping, then top with tomato slices and any optional toppings you prefer, such as extra jalapeños, avocado, sour cream, or pickled onions. Add the top bun and serve immediately for the best experience.

Notes

  • Removing the seeds and membranes from jalapeños reduces heat if you prefer milder burgers.
  • Do not overmix the turkey mixture to keep the burgers tender.
  • The shallow dimple in the patties prevents puffing up and helps even cooking.
  • If ground turkey is very lean, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil into the mixture for juiciness.
  • Use thick-cut beef bacon for the best crispy texture in the topping.
  • These burgers can be made on a grill or stovetop skillet with equally delicious results.
  • Customize optional toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Find it online: https://mealsbykate.com/jalapeno-popper-turkey-burgers-recipe/