It’s grilling season!
Summer food is probably my favorite kind of food. I came to the realization awhile ago that everything “grilled” is 20 times better than other cooking methods. For example grilled chicken is so much tastier than baked chicken. Maybe it’s the smoky flavors and the juiciness that comes through when something gets grilled.
That’s why I love summer. Barbeques are the ultimate way to spend time with friends and make yummy foods. The smell of meat on the bbq after a long day at the beach, with sparkling wine in hand is my idea of summer bliss.
What’s ironic about this recipe is I didn’t actually make these burgers on the grill. I know, sort of goes against my whole bbq rant but I don’t own a bbq at the moment and my apartment complex doesn’t have a community one to use.
Side note, I will be moving into a house next week and you better believe summer bbq parties will be happening. WAY too excited to move on from the apartment lifestyle and get to cook in a gorgeous kitchen, grill burgers on the deck and feel like a grown up.
Until then these turkey burgers get made on my cast iron skillet grill pan. Totally acceptable and got the job done fine! That being said, nothing compares to that smell of a bbq blazing so if you have a one by all means use it for this recipe!
And invite me over. I’ll bring the margaritas, dessert and foodie excitement.
I made these turkey burgers for my beef loving boyfriend and he was pretty ecstatic over it. From my experience with turkey burgers I have found that the trick is to saute the onions and garlic in olive oil before mixing it into the meat. Because caramelized onions are the bomb, let’s be real.
Another important factor is the cheese. I used Cabot sharp cheddar and it really amps up the whole turkey burger game when cheesy flavors are filled in every bite. Ohhh also the balsamic is huge. Use good quality vinegar and your palette will not be disappointed. Total game changer.
Balsamic Glazed Sharp Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Burgers
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 Tbsp rosemary
- 1 lb ground turkey
- Sea salt + pepper to taste
- 2 tsp seasoning of choice (I used TJs all purpose seasoning)
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (I used Cabot)
- 1 Tbsp + 1/4 cup good quality balsamic vinegar, divided
Assembly Ideas
- Whole wheat burger buns (really good toasted with melted cheese)
- Sliced avocado
- Sliced tomato
- Ketchup, chipotle sauce, dijon mustard
- Exta balsamic
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Sautee diced onion, garlic cloves and rosemary until softened and slightly browned, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside to cool for a few minutes.
- Combine ground turkey, sea salt, pepper, seasonings, sharp cheddar, 1 Tbsp of balsamic and sauteed onion + garlic mixture until completely mixed through.
- Roll meat mixture into balls using your hands, then flatten into patties. I have found the thinner I make the patty, the more flavorful/less dry they come out.
- Heat a grill pan or bbq grill. Once heated place patties on the grill and drizzle a little balsamic over the burgers as you’re cooking on the grill pan. If you are using a bbq, dip both sides of the patties into balsamic before grilling.
- Cook about 5-6 minutes on one side, flip and continue to cook for 4-5 minutes until fully cooked through. Once patties are done, assemble onto buns and serve with desired toppings. We enjoyed them with toasted buns, extra cheese, avocado and extra balsamic!
Notes
Makes 6 burgers, or more if you prefer slider size.
