These turkey burgers are a tasty twist with sweet balsamic caramelized onions on top. They’re juicy, full of flavor, and perfect for a summer BBQ!
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of those onions cooking! I like to serve these burgers with a side of sweet potato fries—yummy and fun! 🍔🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is perfect for cooking the onions and adds flavor. You can substitute it with canola or avocado oil if needed. I find that olive oil gives a nice richness!
Yellow Onions: Essential for caramelization due to their sweetness. If you don’t have yellow onions, white or sweet onions can work well. I even love using red onions for a bolder taste!
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a beautiful tangy sweetness to the onions. If you’re out, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be good substitutes, though the flavor might be a bit different. I love the depth balsamic brings!
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey keeps it healthier, but you can use chicken or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Provolone Cheese: This melts nicely, but feel free to swap in mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for something with a kick! I sometimes mix two kinds for extra flavor!
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience and low heat. Slow cooking enhances their natural sugars and transforms them into a sweet topping. Here’s how to do it well:
- Start with medium-low heat; it’s better than high heat for caramelization.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning, about every 5-7 minutes.
- If they start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
- Add the balsamic vinegar towards the end to avoid burning the sugars.
- Total cooking time should be around 25-30 minutes for rich flavor.
Trust me, it’s worth the wait for those sticky, golden onions! Enjoy your burgers!
How to Make Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Onions:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 40-45 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 30 minutes caramelizing the onions, and the rest is for preparing the turkey burgers and cooking them. It’s a great dish for a satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelizing the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add your thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and turn golden, which will take about 25-30 minutes. Don’t rush it—patience is key for that sweet, caramelized flavor!
2. Adding the Balsamic Vinegar:
Once the onions are golden and soft, pour the balsamic vinegar over them and stir well. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vinegar mostly evaporates, leaving the onions sticky and flavorful. Remove them from heat and set aside.
3. Preparing the Turkey Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. I like to combine it gently but thoroughly to keep the turkey nice and juicy.
4. Shaping the Patties:
Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal parts and shape them into patties about ¾ inch thick. Make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking!
5. Cooking the Turkey Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are safely cooked and juicy!
6. Melting the Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking the patties, add a slice of provolone cheese on top to melt. Yum!
7. Toasting the Buns:
While the cheese melts, lightly toast the whole wheat burger buns until they are warm and crisp. A little toasty goodness makes all the difference!
8. Assembling the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place the turkey patty with melted cheese on the bottom of each bun. Top generously with the balsamic caramelized onions, and add any other toppings you wish—lettuce, tomato, mustard, or mayo work well!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Cover each burger with the top bun, and serve immediately. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful turkey burgers filled with delicious caramelized onions!
This recipe is not only delicious but also a healthier option with lean turkey and flavorful toppings. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well. Adjust the cooking time just slightly, as chicken may vary in moisture content.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for a quick meal!
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Caramelized onions can be made a day in advance. Just refrigerate them in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to bring back that delicious texture!
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still taste great!
