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Southwest Turkey Burger Recipe Easy Homemade with Pepper Jack and Chipotle Aioli

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A flavorful and juicy Southwest turkey burger featuring melty pepper jack cheese and smoky chipotle aioli, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground turkey (lean or mix with fat for juiciness)
  • 2 tbsp Southwest seasoning blend (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper)
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 4 slices pepper jack cheese (substitute cheddar or mozzarella if preferred)
  • 4 burger buns (brioche or whole wheat, toasted)
  • Chipotle aioli:
  • ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, red onion rings, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, Southwest seasoning blend, chopped green onions, and cilantro if using. Mix gently until just combined, about 5 minutes.
  2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces or 115g each). Shape each into a round patty about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing up. Set aside on a plate, about 5 minutes.
  3. Prepare the chipotle aioli by whisking together mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust chipotle quantity to taste. Chill until ready to serve, about 5 minutes.
  4. Preheat grill or skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add 1 teaspoon oil and heat until shimmering.
  5. Cook patties on grill or skillet for 5-6 minutes on the first side without moving. Flip carefully and top each patty with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Cook another 4-5 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), total cooking time about 10-12 minutes.
  6. While patties cook, lightly toast burger buns on grill or toaster.
  7. Assemble burgers by spreading chipotle aioli on bottom bun, adding turkey patty with melted cheese, then layering optional toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, and pickled jalapeños. Finish with top bun.
  8. Serve immediately with sides like sweet potato fries or a crisp salad.

Notes

Do not overmix the turkey to avoid tough texture. Make a thumb indentation in patties to prevent puffing. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let patties rest a few minutes after cooking. Chipotle aioli can be made a day ahead for better flavor. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free, omit cheese or use vegan alternatives and vegan mayo.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey burger, southwest burger, chipotle aioli, pepper jack cheese, easy turkey burger, healthy burger, homemade burger, quick dinner

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/southwest-turkey-burger-recipe-easy-homemade-with-pepper-jack-and-chipotle-aioli/