Name: Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large egg; ½ cup pepper jack cheese; ⅓ cup onion; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp cilantro; 1 Jalapeno; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 2 lbs ground turkey; 6 pepper jack cheese slices; For Serving:; hamburger buns; jalapeno slices; spicy mayo; Guacamole; tomato; lettuce

These jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers are a flavorful twist on the classic burger, perfect for grilling season. The combination of pepper jack cheese, jalapeno, and ground turkey creates a juicy and spicy patty that’s sure to impress.

Photos of Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your kitchen. Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy note and can be found in the cheese section. Cilantro and jalapeno bring fresh, zesty flavors and are typically located in the produce aisle. Worcestershire sauce, known for its umami taste, is available in the condiments section.

Ingredients for Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers

Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the burger mixture together.

Pepper jack cheese: Provides a spicy, creamy texture within the patties.

Onion: Adds moisture and a slight sweetness to the burgers.

Garlic cloves: Infuses the patties with a robust, aromatic flavor.

Cilantro: Offers a fresh, citrusy note.

Jalapeno: Brings heat and adds a crunchy texture to the patties.

Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavor of the turkey.

Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.

Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the patties.

Ground cumin: Provides an earthy, slightly spicy flavor.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and seasoning.

Ground turkey: The base protein for the burgers, lean and flavorful.

Pepper jack cheese slices: Melts beautifully over the cooked patties.

Hamburger buns: Essential for serving the burgers.

Jalapeno slices: Optional garnish for extra heat.

Spicy mayo: Adds a creamy, spicy condiment option.

Guacamole: Provides a rich, creamy topping.

Tomato: Adds freshness and a sweet, juicy texture.

Lettuce: Offers a crisp, refreshing layer in the burger.

One reader, Jethro Stull says:

These jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers are a flavor explosion! The spicy kick from the jalapeños and the creamy pepper jack cheese make each bite irresistible. Perfectly juicy and packed with bold flavors, they were a hit at our BBQ. Highly recommend for a delicious twist on classic burgers!

Jethro Stull

Cooking Techniques for Juicy Turkey Burgers

How to whisk: Combine the egg, shredded pepper jack cheese, onion, garlic, cilantro, jalapeno, Worcestershire sauce, salt, paprika, cumin, and black pepper in a bowl and mix thoroughly until well combined.

How to form patties: Shape the ground turkey mixture into 6 plump and compact patties, each weighing around 6 ounces and measuring a heaping ½ cup.

How to refrigerate patties: Place the formed patties onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, baking pan, or plate, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours to ensure they hold their shape.

How to clean and grease a grill: Clean the grill grates and grease them with vegetable oil by pouring a little oil on a paper towel and carefully rubbing it all over the grates.

How to preheat a grill: Preheat the grill to high heat before placing the patties on it.

How to cook burgers on a grill: Place the cold turkey burgers on the heated grill, cook for about 5 minutes with the lid closed, then flip the burgers and cook covered for about 3 more minutes or until a meat thermometer registers 165 degrees F.

How to add cheese to burgers: Place a slice of cheese on each burger in the last 30 seconds of grilling if desired.

How to serve burgers: Serve the cooked burgers on hamburger buns with desired toppings such as jalapeno slices, spicy mayo, guacamole, tomato, and lettuce.

How To Make Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers

Devour these thick and juicy turkey burgers, loaded gooey cheese with a little kick from chilis and seasonings, for a satisfying lunch meal!

Preparation: 40 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1large egg
½: 5px; letter-spacing: 2px”>⅓cuponion,finely chopped
2garlic cloves,finely minced
2tbspcilantro,chopped
1jalapeño,diced
2tspWorcestershire sauce
1tspsalt
1tspsmoked paprika
½tspground cumin
½tspground black pepper,fresh
2lbsground turkey,(94% lean)
6pepper jack cheese slices,optional

For Serving:

hamburger buns
jalapeño slices
spicy mayo,or ranch dressing
guacamole
tomato
lettuce

Instructions

Whisk the egg, shredded Pepper Jack cheese, onion, garlic, cilantro, jalapeno, Worcestershire sauce, salt, paprika, cumin, and black pepper in a large bowl. Once completely combined, add the ground turkey and use hands, a rubber spatula, or a wooden spoon to thoroughly mix.
Once completely combined, form the mixture into 6 plump and compact patties. The patties will weigh around 6 ounces each and be a heaping ½ cup each.
Place the patties onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, baking pan, or plate.
Cover tightly then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours to ensure the patties will hold their shape.
Clean the grill and grease with vegetable oil. Pour a little vegetable oil on a paper towel and carefully rub all over the grates. Preheat grill to high.
Place the cold turkey burgers on a heated grill and cook for about 5 minutes with the lid closed. Flip burgers over and cook covered for about 3 minutes or until a meat thermometer registers 165 degrees F.
If adding cheese, place a slice of cheese on the burger in the last 30 seconds.*
Serve on a hamburger bun with desired toppings. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

*Overcooking the turkey burgers will quickly dry them out, so keep a close eye on them.
Store leftover turkey burgers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Patties can be placed in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 390.67kcal
Fat: 24.30g
Saturated Fat: 10.78g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.74g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.89g
Carbohydrates: 2.43g
Fiber: 0.45g
Sugar: 0.95g
Protein: 40.61g
Cholesterol: 170.04mg
Sodium: 497.06mg
Calcium: 334.18mg
Potassium: 455.66mg
Iron: 2.44mg
Vitamin A: 132.88µg
Vitamin C: 4.09mg

Pro Tip for Perfectly Grilled Turkey Burgers

For perfectly juicy turkey burgers, avoid overmixing the ground turkey mixture. Overmixing can make the burgers dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and then form your patties.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, garlic, and jalapeno ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded pepper jack cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Mix and refrigerate: Combine all ingredients and refrigerate the patties the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Preheat the grill: Ensure the grill is preheated before you start cooking to reduce waiting time.

Use a meat thermometer: Quickly check the doneness of your turkey burgers with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Recipe

egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg. This works as a binder and is a good option for those avoiding eggs.
pepper jack cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to mimic the spiciness of pepper jack cheese.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as onions.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlic flavor.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor similar to cilantro, though it lacks the citrus notes.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but can be used in the same quantity to add a similar heat level.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor, though it lacks the complexity of Worcestershire sauce.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral profile.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Add a drop of liquid smoke to regular paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the other spices.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative.
pepper jack cheese slices - Substitute with cheddar cheese slices: Cheddar cheese provides a rich flavor and melts well, though it lacks the spiciness of pepper jack.
hamburger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer more fiber and nutrients while maintaining a similar texture.
jalapeno slices - Substitute with banana pepper slices: Banana peppers are milder but still add a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
spicy mayo - Substitute with sriracha mayo: Sriracha mayo provides a similar creamy texture with a different type of heat.
guacamole - Substitute with mashed avocado: Mashed avocado offers a similar creamy texture and flavor, though it lacks the additional ingredients in guacamole.
tomato - Substitute with roasted red peppers: Roasted red peppers provide a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the other ingredients.
lettuce - Substitute with spinach: Spinach offers a similar crunch and adds additional nutrients to the burger.

Plating Ideas for Spicy Turkey Burgers

Serve smaller portion sizes: Form the turkey patties into mini sliders instead of full-sized burgers. This allows for a more refined presentation and easier consumption.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped cilantro and thin slices of jalapeno arranged artistically around the burger.
Layer flavors: Spread a thin layer of spicy mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a dollop of guacamole. Place the turkey patty on top, then add a slice of tomato and a leaf of lettuce.
Add height: Stack the ingredients in a way that adds height to the dish. Place the turkey patty on the bottom, followed by the cheese slice, tomato, lettuce, and finally the top bun.
Use high-quality buns: Opt for artisanal hamburger buns with a slight toast to add a gourmet touch and extra texture.
Incorporate color: Use a variety of colorful ingredients like bright green lettuce, red tomato, and vibrant jalapeno slices to make the dish visually appealing.
Serve with a side: Pair the burger with a small side of sweet potato fries or a mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors.
Use elegant plating: Place the burger slightly off-center on a large, white plate. Add a smear of spicy mayo on the side for dipping, and sprinkle some smoked paprika around the edges for a pop of color.

Storing and Freezing Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers

Storing: place the cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: wrap each cooked or uncooked turkey burger individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen cooked burgers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet, on the grill, or in the microwave until heated through.
To cook frozen uncooked burgers, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the burgers directly from the freezer for about 8 minutes per side or until a meat thermometer registers 165°F.
For best quality, consume the frozen turkey burgers within 3 months. After that, they may start to develop freezer burn, which can affect their taste and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Burgers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover turkey burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the burgers loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra crispy bun, place the burgers on the buns during the last 2-3 minutes of reheating.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place the turkey burger on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the burger moist during reheating. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the power of your microwave and the thickness of the burger. Check the burger's temperature and continue heating in 15-second intervals if needed.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers in a skillet or on a griddle. Preheat the skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking. Place the burger in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. If desired, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of the burger during the last minute of cooking to melt it.
If you have access to an air fryer, this can be an excellent way to reheat your leftover turkey burgers. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the exterior is crispy. You can also place the buns in the air fryer during the last minute of cooking to warm them up.

Interesting Trivia About Jalapeño Peppers

A fun fact about this jalapeño pepper jack turkey burger recipe is that the jalapeño not only adds a spicy kick but also contains capsaicin, which can boost your metabolism and help with weight loss.

Budget-Friendly Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers

This jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground turkey is generally affordable, and the other ingredients like onion, garlic, and cilantro are inexpensive. Specialty items like pepper jack cheese and jalapeno add a bit to the cost but are still reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Healthy?

The jalapeño pepper jack turkey burger recipe offers a flavorful and leaner alternative to traditional beef burgers. Turkey is a good source of protein and contains less saturated fat compared to beef. The addition of vegetables like onion, garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño adds flavor and some nutrients. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make this recipe healthier:

The recipe includes a significant amount of cheese, which is high in saturated fat and sodium. While cheese provides calcium and protein, consuming too much can contribute to heart disease and other health issues.
The serving suggestions include spicy mayo, which is likely high in fat and calories. Guacamole, while containing healthy fats from avocados, can also add extra calories.
The recipe does not specify the type of hamburger bun, which could be high in refined carbohydrates and low in fiber if a white bun is used.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used in the patty mixture and as a topping. Opt for a lower-fat cheese variety or use a smaller quantity of a stronger-flavored cheese to maintain taste while cutting down on fat and calories.
Serve the burger on a whole-grain bun or lettuce wrap to increase fiber intake and reduce refined carbohydrates.
Instead of spicy mayo, use a healthier spread like mashed avocado, hummus, or a yogurt-based sauce.
Add more vegetables to the burger toppings, such as sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and pickled onions, to increase the nutrient content and fiber.
Experiment with adding other healthy ingredients to the patty mixture, such as finely chopped spinach, grated zucchini, or quinoa, to boost the nutritional value without compromising taste.

Editor's Opinion on This Spicy Turkey Burger Recipe

This jalapeño pepper jack turkey burger recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of pepper jack cheese, jalapeño, and spices adds a zesty kick, while the cilantro and garlic provide a fresh, aromatic undertone. Refrigerating the patties ensures they hold their shape on the grill, resulting in a juicy, well-formed burger. The suggested toppings like spicy mayo and guacamole complement the heat and add creaminess. Overall, it's a well-balanced, flavorful recipe perfect for a summer cookout.

Enhance Your Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn Salad: Elevate your jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers with a vibrant grilled corn salad. The smoky sweetness of grilled corn combined with cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a zesty lime dressing will add a refreshing crunch to your meal.

Sweet Potato Fries: Complement the spicy kick of your turkey burgers with a side of crispy sweet potato fries. These golden delights, seasoned with a hint of cinnamon and paprika, offer a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Add a tropical twist to your main course with a mango avocado salsa. The juicy mango chunks, creamy avocado, and a splash of lime juice create a refreshing and tangy side that pairs beautifully with the spicy turkey burgers.

Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: For a touch of elegance, serve your jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers with garlic parmesan asparagus. The tender asparagus spears, roasted to perfection and sprinkled with parmesan cheese, add a savory and sophisticated element to your meal.

Watermelon Feta Salad: Balance the heat of your turkey burgers with a refreshing watermelon feta salad. The juicy watermelon cubes, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of mint leaves create a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Similar Recipes to Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers

Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burgers: Fire up your grill for these spicy chipotle chicken burgers! Packed with ground chicken, chipotle peppers, and a blend of spices, these burgers are sure to bring the heat. Top with avocado, red onion, and a dollop of sour cream for a cooling contrast.

Southwest Black Bean Burgers: Perfect for a meatless Monday, these southwest black bean burgers are bursting with flavor. Made with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a hint of cumin, these patties are hearty and satisfying. Serve with salsa and guacamole on a toasted bun.

BBQ Turkey Sliders: Mini but mighty, these BBQ turkey sliders are a crowd-pleaser. Ground turkey is mixed with BBQ sauce, onions, and garlic for a smoky, savory bite. Top with coleslaw and serve on slider buns for a fun and flavorful meal.

Greek Turkey Burgers: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these Greek turkey burgers. Ground turkey is combined with feta cheese, spinach, and oregano. Serve on pita bread with tzatziki sauce, cucumber, and tomato for a fresh and healthy twist.

Buffalo Chicken Burgers: For those who love a bit of spice, these buffalo chicken burgers are a must-try. Ground chicken is seasoned with buffalo sauce and blue cheese. Grill to perfection and serve with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of ranch dressing on a bun.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas for Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Kick off your meal with these spicy Stuffed Jalapeños. Hollow out fresh jalapeños and fill them with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits. Bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

Mini Quesadillas: Delight your guests with Mini Quesadillas. Use small flour tortillas and fill them with a blend of pepper jack cheese, shredded chicken, and sautéed onions. Cook until the tortillas are golden and crispy. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, gooey chocolate core that oozes out with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the intense chocolate flavor. Garnish with fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. The contrast of the warm cake and cold ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience, making it a perfect ending to your meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The buttery, flaky crust adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Serve it chilled for a refreshing finish to your meal. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender or basil into the lemon curd for a unique flavor profile. The bright, citrusy notes make it an ideal dessert to cleanse the palate after a savory main course.

Why trust this Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Recipe:

This recipe combines the perfect blend of pepper jack cheese, jalapeno, and ground turkey to create a flavorful and juicy burger. The use of fresh ingredients like cilantro and garlic ensures a burst of taste in every bite. The step-by-step instructions guarantee that even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Plus, the option to refrigerate the patties for up to 24 hours makes it convenient for meal prep. Trust this recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Share your thoughts on this Jalapeño Pepper Jack Turkey Burgers Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

How spicy are these jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers?

The spiciness can vary depending on the jalapeño and pepper jack cheese. If you want to tone down the heat, you can remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño or use less of it.

Can I cook these burgers on a stovetop instead of a grill?

Absolutely! You can cook them in a skillet over medium-high heat. Just make sure to cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This actually helps them hold their shape better when cooking.

What can I use as a substitute for pepper jack cheese?

If you’re not a fan of pepper jack, you can use any cheese you like. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella would work well.

How do I keep the turkey burgers from falling apart?

Chilling the patties in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape. Also, make sure the mixture is well-combined and compact when forming the patties.