Name: Southwest Turkey Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 lime, juiced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 whole wheat burger buns; Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, lettuce, tomato

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These Southwest Turkey Burgers are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Packed with the bold flavors of cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of lime, they offer a spicy and juicy bite. With optional toppings like avocado and salsa, they’re perfect for a quick, satisfying, and healthy dinner.

Southwest Turkey Burgers

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey

¼ cup breadcrumbs

¼ cup diced red onion

¼ cup chopped cilantro

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

1 lime, juiced

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 whole wheat burger buns

Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, lettuce, tomato

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, red onion, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to over-mix to keep the burgers juicy.

Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease with cooking spray or oil.

Cook the turkey burgers for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster.

Serve the burgers on the toasted buns with your choice of toppings, such as avocado, salsa, lettuce, and tomato.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian option: Swap the ground turkey for a plant-based meat alternative or use mashed black beans for a hearty veggie burger.

Spicy kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the burger mixture for extra heat.

Cheese: Add a slice of pepper jack or cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking for a melty, delicious topping.

No buns: Serve the turkey burgers in lettuce wraps for a low-carb, gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

To store any leftovers, place the cooked turkey patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the patties for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, defrost in the fridge overnight before heating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?

Yes, chicken works well as a substitute. Ground chicken breast is a great option and will offer a similar texture and flavor.

How do I know when the turkey burgers are cooked through?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The turkey burgers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. This helps the flavors to meld together even more.

Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking them in a skillet?

Yes! These turkey burgers can definitely be grilled. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the burgers for about 5-6 minutes per side, just like in the skillet.

What can I serve with these Southwest Turkey Burgers?

I love pairing these burgers with a side of sweet potato fries, a simple salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve them with some corn on the cob for a true southwestern vibe.

Conclusion

These Southwest Turkey Burgers are a fun, flavorful, and healthy twist on the classic burger. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress at your next BBQ, these burgers are sure to hit the spot. With just the right amount of spice, a juicy texture, and endless topping options, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!

Recipe:

Southwest Turkey Burgers

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 burgers

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Description

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, red onion, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to over-mix to keep the burgers juicy.
Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease with cooking spray or oil.
Cook the turkey burgers for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster.
Serve the burgers on the toasted buns with your choice of toppings, such as avocado, salsa, lettuce, and tomato.