These turkey burgers are packed with flavor thanks to sweet, caramelized onions and a splash of balsamic vinegar. They’re juicy and perfect for grilling or frying!
I love making these on warm days and tossing them on the grill. The smell of onions cooking is simply irresistible! You’ll want to have these burgers often! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean and healthy, this is the star of the burger. If you prefer a richer flavor, ground chicken or beef can work well too; just keep an eye on cooking times.
Yellow Onion: Sweet and ideal for caramelizing! If you don’t have yellow onions, you can use white onions or even red onions for a different flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a lovely tang and sweetness. If you want a substitute, try red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but adjust the sugar to taste since they are more acidic.
Cheese: Provolone or Swiss is fantastic for melting. You can swap with cheddar for extra sharpness or even omit the cheese for a dairy-free option.
Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns: These are a great healthier option! Feel free to use any type of burger bun that you love, like brioche or gluten-free buns.
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can feel tricky, but it’s all about patience. The slow cooking allows the sugars to develop, which is what makes them deliciously sweet.
- Start on medium-low heat; high heat can burn them.
- Add a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.
- Stir occasionally, but let them cook slowly—this usually takes 25-30 minutes.
- Once they are golden brown, stir in balsamic vinegar for an extra boost of flavor.
Don’t rush this step; the result is well worth it! The rich, sweet flavor of the caramelized onions takes your turkey burger to another level. Enjoy cooking your delicious burgers! 🍔
Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 4 whole wheat hamburger buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes approximately 35 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes caramelizing the onions and 15 minutes cooking the turkey patties, plus a few minutes for assembly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the onions are golden brown and nicely caramelized. Remember, patience is key for this step!
2. Add Balsamic Vinegar:
Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the balsamic vinegar and stir it all together. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vinegar mostly evaporates and the onions become sticky and flavorful. Then, remove them from the heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Turkey Patties:
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined—don’t overwork the turkey, or your patties may become tough!
4. Form the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty that’s about ¾ inch thick. This will help them cook evenly.
5. Cook the Patties:
Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Add Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet or close the grill lid to let the cheese melt.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
If you’d like, toast the hamburger buns until they’re warm and slightly crispy. Place each turkey patty on the bottom half of a bun, top generously with the balsamic caramelized onions, and finish with the top bun.
8. Serve:
Dig in right away while they’re hot and juicy! Serve with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your tasty turkey burgers!
This recipe yields juicy, flavorful turkey burgers topped with sweet and tangy caramelized onions, making for a scrumptious meal everyone will love!
FAQ – Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a fantastic substitute and will yield a similar results. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if needed, as ground chicken may cook slightly differently.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you’d like some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture. You can also top your burgers with sliced pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Turkey Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the turkey patties in advance! Shape them and then store them in the refrigerator for up to one day. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers and caramelized onions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
