I love making Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers for weeknight dinners and backyard cookouts. I keep the mix simple and bright so the peppers and cheese stand out, and I sometimes check timing tips like how long do turkey burgers take in the air fryer when I use a different method.
My Dad James taught me to fold the cheese in gently so it melts inside. He always said spicy food brings family to the table.
Your Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns
- Toppings (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
My Go-To Equipment
I like a heavy skillet or grill pan for a good sear. If I want a faster cook and less oil I use an air fryer and I follow a guide on turkey burgers in the air fryer for times and settings.
The Simple Steps to Follow
- Combine the ground turkey, cheddar, jalapeños, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Mix gently until the ingredients hold together.
- Form the mixture into even patties.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties about 6 to 7 minutes per side until they are cooked through and have a nice sear.
- Toast buns if you like and build burgers with your favorite toppings.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Healthy Twists on a Classic
I swap half the breadcrumbs for oats to add fiber. You can use low fat cheese or skip the egg if you need to avoid it. Swap jalapeños for milder peppers for less heat.
Serving Suggestions From My Table
I serve these with simple sides like a green salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or a slaw. A squeeze of lime lifts the jalapeño flavor, and sliced avocado adds creaminess.
Getting It Just Right
I aim for an internal temperature of 165 F for safety, and I use a digital thermometer to check; here is a quick note on what temperature to cook turkey burgers. Let the patties rest a few minutes before serving so they stay juicy.
How to Store Leftovers
Cool burgers to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze cooked patties on a sheet then move into a freezer bag for up to three months.
Enjoy Every Moment
I love the small, loud moments when everyone takes the first bite. These burgers are easy to make and easy to share.
A Few Common Questions
How long do Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers take to cook?
They take about 12 to 14 minutes total on medium heat, about 6 to 7 minutes per side, until they reach 165 F inside.
Can I make Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers in the air fryer?
Yes, you can. Adjust time and check doneness with a thermometer; many air fryer recipes cook them in 10 to 14 minutes depending on thickness.
Can I prepare the Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the patties and store them in the fridge for a day or freeze them raw for up to three months. Cook from frozen a bit longer and check the internal temperature.
Print
Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Delicious and spicy Jalapeño Cheddar Turkey Burgers perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard cookouts.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Burger buns
- Toppings (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
Instructions
- Combine the ground turkey, cheddar, jalapeños, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Mix gently until the ingredients hold together.
- Form the mixture into even patties.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties about 6 to 7 minutes per side until they are cooked through and have a nice sear.
- Toast buns if you like and build burgers with your favorite toppings.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. Allow patties to rest a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: turkey burgers, jalapeno cheddar, easy dinner, backyard cookout, spicy burgers