Turkey Burgers

Turkey Burger

Lately, it has been downright balmy in Minneapolis and I might have Spring Fever.  I was digging through some old recipes and came across this gem for our (my mom and me) homemade turkey burgers.  I no longer eat meat but these used to be one of my Summer time staples.



1 1/3 pounds ground turkey breast (or one package)

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 

1 large shallot or 1/4 red onion, finely chopped 

2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves 

3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

1/2 small bell pepper, green, red or yellow, seeded and finely chopped 

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (you can leave in the seeds if you like it REALLY hot)

2 teaspoons ground cumin 

1 teaspoons cayenne hot sauce, several drops or Sriacha or whatever you have on hand

2 teaspoons grill seasoning blend (we use Penzey’s because we are obsessed with that store)

Olive oil, for drizzling 



To assemble:
Combine turkey meat, garlic, shallot or onion, thyme, cilantro, bell pepper, jalapeno pepper, cumin, hot pepper sauce, grill seasoning or salt and pepper. 
Divide mixture into 4 equal mounds then form meat into patties. Drizzle patties with olive oil to coat.  


If you make an thumb size indentation in the middle of the patty it helps grill evenly.  Grill over medium high heat for 5 to 6 minutes on each side.

I like to top with pepperjack or goat cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sometimes aioli.  Typically, my Dad will add too much hot sauce to his turkey burger and then we all get to watch him sweat through this meal.  It is a really special family time...