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Jalapeño Turkey Burger with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe

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4.6 from 109 reviews

These Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers are a flavorful twist on traditional turkey burgers, packed with spicy jalapeños, smoky bacon, and a creamy cheese topping reminiscent of the classic jalapeño popper appetizer. Perfectly juicy turkey patties are cooked to golden perfection and topped with a rich, cheesy blend of cream cheese, Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, bacon, and fresh herbs, all served on toasted buns with fresh lettuce and tomato. Ideal for a delicious and satisfying weeknight meal or weekend cookout.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Patties

  • 1 ½ lbs lean ground turkey
  • 2 medium jalapeños, finely minced (remove seeds/membrane for less heat)
  • ¼ cup finely minced red onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
  • ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Topping

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 slices thick-cut beef bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (remove seeds/membrane for less heat)
  • 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped

For Serving

  • 4-6 burger buns, your favorite kind (toasted)
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Optional additional toppings: extra fresh jalapeño slices, avocado slices or guacamole, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing, pickled red onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Finely mince 2 medium jalapeños (remove seeds and membranes for less heat), ¼ cup red onion, and 2 cloves garlic. Gather all ingredients for the patties.
  2. Mix Turkey Patties: In a large bowl, gently combine ground turkey, minced jalapeños, red onion, garlic, Panko breadcrumbs, egg, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until incorporated to keep burgers tender.
  3. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4-6 equal portions and shape each into a ¾ to 1 inch thick patty, making them slightly wider than the buns. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to prevent puffing while cooking.
  4. Cook Bacon: Cook the 2 slices of thick-cut beef bacon until crispy, drain on paper towels, let cool, then crumble into small pieces.
  5. Prepare Topping Ingredients: Finely mince 1 small jalapeño (remove seeds/membrane if desired) and finely chop 2 tablespoons fresh chives.
  6. Make Jalapeño Popper Topping: In a medium bowl, smooth out the softened cream cheese. Fold in the shredded Monterey Jack, sharp cheddar, crumbled bacon, minced jalapeño, and chopped chives. Mix until well combined and taste to adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Cook Patties: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat or preheat your grill. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Do not press down on patties while cooking to retain juiciness.
  8. Add Topping: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, generously spread a spoonful of the jalapeño popper topping on each patty. Cover the pan or close the grill lid briefly to help the cheese melt.
  9. Rest Patties and Toast Buns: Remove the burgers to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, toast your burger buns on the grill, in a skillet, or under the broiler until lightly golden.
  10. Assemble Burgers: Place lettuce leaves on the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Add the rested burger patties with melted topping. Top with fresh tomato slices and any preferred optional toppings such as extra jalapeño slices, avocado, sour cream, ranch dressing, or pickled red onions. Cover with the top buns and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Removing seeds and membranes from jalapeños reduces heat but preserves flavor.
  • Mix turkey gently to avoid dense, tough burgers.
  • Using Panko breadcrumbs helps keep patties moist and tender.
  • Allow burgers to rest before assembling to retain juices.
  • Optional toppings add extra flavor and texture, customize to your preference.
  • Cook bacon ahead of time to ensure crispy texture in topping.

Find it online: https://oliviabakes.com/jalapeno-turkey-burger-with-cream-cheese-topping-recipe/