These Easy Balsamic Turkey Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with sweet caramelized onions, they make for a delightful meal that’s both tasty and satisfying.
I love whipping these up on a busy weeknight. They cook quickly, and the smell of onions cooking will have everyone coming to the kitchen! 🍔✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are perfect for caramelization due to their sweetness. If you don’t have yellow onions, you can use white onions or even red ones for a slight color change and a different flavor profile.
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is best for these burgers, but you can also use ground chicken. For a richer taste, opt for a blend with some fat (like dark meat) for juiciness.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for the burgers’ flavor. If you’re out, you could use red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar or apple cider vinegar for a different tangy twist.
Cheese: I recommend Swiss or provolone cheese for its melting quality. Monterey Jack or cheddar also works nicely. If you’re dairy-free, try a non-dairy cheese substitute.
Whole Wheat Buns: Whole wheat buns add texture and flavor. Any burger bun will work, but for a lower-carb option, you might try lettuce wraps instead!
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions requires a little patience, but it’s worth it for the flavor payoff! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a non-stick skillet and set the heat to medium-low. This keeps the onions from burning while they cook.
- Add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.
- Cook low and slow for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows their natural sugars to develop.
- If needed, sprinkle a little sugar to aid caramelization.
- Finish by adding balsamic vinegar in the last few minutes for an extra depth of flavor.
Don’t rush this step! The longer they cook, the sweeter and richer they become.
Easy Balsamic Turkey Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to enhance caramelization)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Turkey Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (preferably lean but with some fat for juiciness)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of cheese (Swiss or provolone work well)
- 4 whole wheat burger buns, toasted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and another 25-30 minutes for cooking, including caramelizing the onions and grilling the burgers. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious dinner in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Sauté the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, until they become deeply golden and softened.
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the balsamic vinegar and optional sugar, letting them cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vinegar is mostly absorbed and the onions are sticky and glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Turkey Burgers:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, making them roughly the size of your burger buns.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease the surface with oil. Cook each turkey patty for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through (check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C).
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, covering the grill or skillet to help it melt perfectly.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
To assemble, place each cheesy turkey patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Spoon on a generous helping of caramelized onions on top of the patty. Finish by placing the top bun over the onions and enjoy your tasty burgers right away!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Balsamic Turkey Burgers with sweet caramelized onions! 🍔✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken can be a great substitute for turkey in this recipe. Just ensure it’s a mix with some fat for added juiciness, as lean chicken might result in drier burgers.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers and caramelized onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the burgers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions in Advance?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions a day or two ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to use, reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What Can I Use Instead of Balsamic Vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar with a little sugar to mimic the flavor and sweetness of balsamic. Just keep the quantities similar for best results!
