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Flavorful Smoked Turkey Burgers with Avocado and Pepper Jack

smoked turkey burgers - featured image

Juicy, smoky turkey burgers topped with creamy avocado and melty pepper jack cheese, perfect for easy grilling and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (preferably lean but not extra-lean)
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 4 slices pepper jack cheese
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (for brushing grill and patties)
  • 4 burger buns, toasted (brioche or whole wheat)
  • Lettuce and tomato slices (optional)
  • Optional extras: pickles, red onion slices, chipotle mayo

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If using charcoal, wait until coals are glowing red with a light layer of ash.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently without overworking the meat.
  3. Form 4 equal patties, about 4 inches in diameter and ¾ inch thick. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  4. Use a basting brush to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Place patties on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side until edges look cooked and patties release easily.
  6. Flip patties carefully and immediately place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each. Grill for another 4-5 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Toast burger buns cut-side down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and warm.
  8. Assemble burgers by spreading avocado slices on the bottom bun, adding the turkey patty with melted cheese, then topping with lettuce and tomato slices if desired. Add pickles or chipotle mayo for extra flavor.
  9. Serve immediately while cheese is gooey and avocado is creamy.

Notes

Do not overmix the turkey to avoid dry burgers. Press a dimple in the center of patties to prevent puffing. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest patties 3-5 minutes after grilling. For smoky flavor, use wood chips like hickory or applewood. Avoid pressing down on patties while cooking to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked turkey burgers, avocado, pepper jack cheese, grilled turkey burger, easy grilling, healthy burgers, backyard barbecue