If you’re looking for a delicious, lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers, these Grilled Turkey Burgers with Spicy Jalapeño Slaw are the perfect choice. They’re juicy, flavorful, and topped with a crisp, creamy slaw that adds just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing an easy family dinner, this recipe delivers fresh flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy and flavorful turkey burgers with simple pantry seasonings.
- Fresh, crunchy jalapeño slaw adds a spicy kick.
- Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Family-friendly with adjustable spice levels.
- Perfect for summer cookouts, meal prep, or weeknight dinners.
- Made with wholesome ingredients and whole wheat buns.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Burgers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
For the Spicy Jalapeño Slaw
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup julienned carrots
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and lightly oil the cooking surface.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties. Press a small indentation into the center of each patty.
- Grill the Grilled Turkey Burgers with Spicy Jalapeño Slaw for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Meanwhile, prepare the slaw by combining cabbage, carrots, jalapeño slices, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and cilantro. Toss until evenly coated.
- Toast the whole wheat buns on the grill for 1–2 minutes.
- Place each turkey burger on the bottom bun, generously top with spicy jalapeño slaw, then finish with the top bun.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Tips & Tricks
- Avoid overmixing the turkey mixture to keep the burgers tender.
- Wet your hands slightly before shaping patties to prevent sticking.
- Adjust the jalapeño amount depending on your preferred spice level.
- Add sliced avocado, tomato, or lettuce for extra freshness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked turkey.
- The slaw can be prepared several hours in advance for even better flavor.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: High Protein, Family-Friendly
Notes
- Brioche or multigrain buns work well if preferred.
- Greek yogurt can replace part or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter slaw.
- Add pickles or your favorite burger sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve alongside baked sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
FAQ
Can I make these turkey burgers ahead of time?
Yes. Shape the patties up to one day in advance and refrigerate until ready to grill.
How do I keep turkey burgers from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and cook only until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Is the jalapeño slaw very spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat. Remove the jalapeño seeds for a milder flavor.
Can I cook these indoors?
Absolutely. A grill pan or cast-iron skillet works very well.
Can I freeze the patties?
Yes. Freeze uncooked patties for up to three months with parchment paper between each one.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked patties for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet, oven, or microwave until heated through. Prepare fresh slaw for the best texture.
Similar Recipes
Grilled Turkey Burgers with Spicy Jalapeño Slaw
Ingredients
For the Turkey Burgers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
For the Spicy Jalapeño Slaw
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup julienned carrots
- 1 jalapeño thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and lightly oil the cooking surface.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties. Press a small indentation into the center of each patty.
- Grill the Grilled Turkey Burgers with Spicy Jalapeño Slaw for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Meanwhile, prepare the slaw by combining cabbage, carrots, jalapeño slices, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and cilantro. Toss until evenly coated.
- Toast the whole wheat buns on the grill for 1–2 minutes.
- Place each turkey burger on the bottom bun, generously top with spicy jalapeño slaw, then finish with the top bun.
- Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Brioche or multigrain buns work well if preferred.
- Greek yogurt can replace part or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter slaw.
- Add pickles or your favorite burger sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve alongside baked sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
These Grilled Turkey Burgers with Spicy Jalapeño Slaw are everything you want in a homemade burger—juicy, satisfying, and packed with fresh flavor. The smoky turkey patties pair beautifully with the crunchy, tangy slaw, creating a meal that’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular favorite.