Mexican Turkey Burger – Bethenny Frankel

The first time I made turkey burgers, they were dry, bland hockey pucks. My family politely choked them down, but their disappointed faces haunted my culinary dreams. I was determined to conquer the turkey burger, and over the years, I’ve experimented with countless combinations of spices, vegetables, and techniques to create a truly juicy, flavorful burger. This Mexican-inspired version, with its vibrant blend of peppers, cumin, and chili powder, is a far cry from those early failures. It’s become a regular on our summer barbeque rotation, and I can’t wait to share the secrets to its success with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yields: 4 patties
• Serves: 4
• Dietary Type: High Protein, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey (white if ultra lowfat, dark for more flavor, a mixture for a combination of elements)
• ¼ red pepper, chopped small
• ¼ yellow pepper, chopped small (if you only have one colour, that is fine)
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 dash Tabasco sauce
• 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowl
• Grill or Broiler (or Stovetop Pan)
• Spatula

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground turkey, chopped red pepper, chopped yellow pepper, cumin, chili powder, Tabasco sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there! The goal is to evenly distribute the flavors.
2. Gently form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can make the burgers tough. Aim for patties that are about ¾ inch thick.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or preheat your broiler. Alternatively, heat a skillet over medium-high heat on your stovetop.
4. If grilling, place the patties directly on the grill grates. If broiling, place the patties on a broiler pan. If using a skillet, add a little bit of neutral oil to the pan before placing the patties.
5. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the burgers are cooked through and the center is no longer pink. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Do not press down on the burgers while cooking, as this will squeeze out the juices and result in a drier burger.
6. Once cooked through, remove the patties from the heat.
7. Serve on your favorite kind of bun with your favorite condiments!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice it up: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño to the burger mixture.
• Moisture is key: If your turkey mixture seems dry, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a beaten egg to help bind the ingredients and keep the burgers moist.
• Resting period: Let the cooked patties rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the burger, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
• Bun selection: Choose a sturdy bun that can stand up to the juicy burger and your favorite toppings. Brioche buns, pretzel rolls, or even toasted sourdough are all great options.
• Versatile cooking: These burgers can also be cooked in an air fryer for a healthier, hands-off option. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Mexican Turkey Burgers on your favorite buns with a variety of toppings. Classic burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles are always a good choice, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Consider adding avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese, or a drizzle of your favorite salsa. They pair perfectly with a side of sweet potato fries, grilled corn on the cob, or a simple green salad.

Leftover cooked burger patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave them, but for the best results, re-heat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of oil or broth. You can also freeze cooked burger patties for up to 2-3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	176.2 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	85 g	49%
Total Fat	9.5 g	14%
Saturated Fat	2.6 g	12%
Cholesterol	89.7 mg	29%
Sodium	112 mg	4%
Total Carbohydrate	1.5 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.4 g	1%
Sugars	0.3 g	N/A
Protein	20.1 g	40%

Variations & Substitutions

• Chicken Burger: Substitute ground chicken for ground turkey.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground turkey with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. Mash the beans or lentils well before combining with the other ingredients.
• Gluten-Free: Serve the burgers on gluten-free buns or as lettuce wraps.
• Spicier Version: Add a finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the burger mixture.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Top the burgers with your favorite cheese during the last minute of cooking. Pepper jack, cheddar, or Monterey Jack would all be delicious choices.
• Lower Sodium: Omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a low-sodium version. You may need to adjust the salt level to your liking.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the burger patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

Q: How do I prevent the burgers from sticking to the grill?
A: Make sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also brush the burgers with a little bit of oil before placing them on the grill.

Q: My burgers always turn out dry. What am I doing wrong?
A: Overcooking is the most common culprit. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), but don’t exceed that. Adding a binder like a beaten egg or a tablespoon of olive oil can also help keep the burgers moist.

Q: Can I freeze these burgers?
A: Yes! Cooked burger patties freeze very well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Q: What are some good toppings for these burgers?
A: The possibilities are endless! Some popular options include lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, avocado, sour cream, salsa, and cheese. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Turkey Burger recipe is a testament to the fact that turkey burgers don’t have to be bland and boring. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a flavorful, juicy burger that everyone will love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and variations to make it your own. Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. I’d love to hear about your burger creations – please share your experiences and any tweaks you make to the recipe! And if you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing these burgers with a refreshing margarita or a crisp Mexican beer for the ultimate summer feast.