These Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers are super tasty and juicy! With sweet balsamic onions on top, they bring a flavor party to your plate!
I love grilling these burgers on sunny days. They are easy to make and a big hit at BBQs! Plus, who can resist those caramelized onions? They add the perfect touch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is the star of the burger, providing a lean protein option. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground chicken or beef also work well. I often use ground turkey for a lighter option!
Yellow Onions: Yellow onions give a nice sweetness when caramelized. If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute with sweet onions or even red onions, but they’ll be a bit sharper in flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds rich flavor to the onions. If you don’t have balsamic, try apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. Just keep in mind, the flavor profile will change slightly!
Provolone Cheese: Provolone melts beautifully. For a different flavor, cheddar or mozzarella can work too. I love using sharp cheddar for an extra kick!
Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns: These are a healthier choice, but any kind of bun will do—white, gluten-free, or a lettuce wrap for a low-carb version. Be creative with what you have!
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelized onions add depth and sweetness to your burgers, but they require a bit of attention. Here’s how to make sure they’re just right:
- Start with a medium skillet and heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Stir to coat them in oil.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don’t rush this step—low and slow is best!
- When they’ve turned a rich golden brown, add balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors. Set aside and enjoy the wonderful aroma!
Taking your time with the onions brings out their natural sweetness, making your burgers truly delicious!
Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking onions)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 4 slices provolone cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- 4 whole wheat hamburger buns
- Optional: lettuce, tomato, mustard, or other burger toppings of choice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 20-25 minutes caramelizing the onions and about 15 minutes to prepare and cook the turkey burgers. The wait is worth it for these juicy and flavorful burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect, rich caramel color. When the onions are deeply browned and soft, mix in the balsamic vinegar and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside. The sweet and tangy smell will fill your kitchen!
2. Prepare the Turkey Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but make sure everything is blended. Shape the turkey mixture into 4 equal patties. Keep them a little thicker in the center to ensure they cook evenly!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Get your grill or skillet nice and hot over medium-high heat. Cook the turkey patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of provolone cheese on each patty and let it melt deliciously over the top.
4. Toast the Buns (Optional):
If you like, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster. This adds a nice crunch and flavor!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Start with the bottom bun and place the cooked turkey patty with melted cheese on top. Add a generous spoonful of the balsamic caramelized onions right on top of the cheese. Feel free to add any of your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, or mustard before placing the top bun on.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your burgers immediately while they’re warm and juicy. Pair them with your favorite sides, such as sweet potato fries or a fresh salad, and enjoy every delicious bite!
These turkey burgers are always a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy the sweet and tangy goodness of caramelized onions with a juicy burger! 🍔
FAQ: Easy Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers
Can I Use Ground Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken may be slightly more tender, so handle the patties gently when forming them.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar. The flavor will be different, but it will still add a nice tang to your caramelized onions!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover turkey burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stove, and add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist while warming up.
Can I Make the Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Caramelized onions can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat them in a skillet when you’re ready to assemble your burgers.
