There’s nothing quite like the satisfying sizzle of fresh burgers hitting a hot grill, especially when they’re infused with the bold smoky flavor of roasted poblano peppers. I discovered this standout recipe for Poblano Turkey Burgers on a sunny afternoon, yearning for something healthier yet still indulgent. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon a game-changing dish! With a juicy, tender patty made from lean ground turkey, each bite bursts with delightful flavors, making it perfect for summer cookouts or cozy weeknight dinners.
What truly sets these burgers apart is the unique twist that the poblanos offer—mildly sweet and smoky, they elevate a simple turkey burger into something truly special. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just bored with the usual fast food, these burgers are not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Grab your grill and get ready to impress everyone at the table with these delectable Poblano Turkey Burgers!
Why are Poblano Turkey Burgers a must-try?
Deliciously Unique: These turkey burgers are infused with smoky poblano peppers, adding an exciting flavor twist that makes every bite a delight.
Healthy Option: Made with lean ground turkey, they are lower in fat but high in taste, perfect for a nutritious meal.
Quick Preparation: Get these succulent burgers on the grill in no time, making it an easy weeknight dinner or a fabulous weekend cookout dish.
Versatility: Customize the toppings to suit your palate—avocado, grilled red onions, or your favorite cheese all work wonders!
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re entertaining or just hungry, these juicy patties will win over even the pickiest eaters—don’t forget to check out my tips for serving!
Poblano Turkey Burger Ingredients
For the Burgers
• Poblano Peppers – Adds a smoky and mildly sweet flavor; can be replaced with jalapeños for more heat.
• Lean Ground Turkey – Primary protein source, offering a healthy, lower-fat alternative to beef; ensure it’s fresh for the best taste.
• Spring Onions – Provides a mild onion flavor; can substitute with yellow or white onions if unavailable.
• Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavor; can replace with yellow mustard in a pinch.
• Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and depth of flavor; optional for those who prefer a milder taste.
• Garlic Powder – Provides savory notes; fresh garlic can be used instead for a stronger flavor.
• Onion Powder – Contributes additional flavor; may be skipped or reduced if using fresh onions.
• Mayonnaise – Keeps burgers moist; optional and can use low-fat versions.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasoning; adjust to taste, using sea salt or alternative salts if desired.
• Brioche or Potato Buns – Ideal for softness and structure; gluten-free buns are a suitable option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Monterey Jack Cheese – Optional cheese topping; can swap for cheddar or omit for dairy-free.
For the Toppings
• Avocado – Adds creaminess that complements the smoky flavors beautifully.
• Grilled Red Onions – Bring a sweet and savory bite that elevates the burger further.
• Lettuce – Provides a refreshing crunch on top of the burger.
• Tomato – Adds juiciness and a touch of acidity for balance.
Get ready to craft these delightful Poblano Turkey Burgers that will impress everyone at your table—simple to make and loaded with flavor!
How to Make Poblano Turkey Burgers
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Roast Poblano Peppers: Char the poblano peppers on a grill or broiler until blackened, about 8-10 minutes. Then, place them in a covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes, which makes peeling them easy. Once done, peel and chop the peppers finely.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped poblano peppers, spring onions, dijon mustard, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, mayonnaise, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly blended, but be careful not to overwork the meat.
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Form Patties: With your hands, shape the mixture into six equal-sized patties, about 1-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
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Chill (if necessary): If the mixture feels too soft to handle, cover the patties and refrigerate them for about 20 minutes to firm up.
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Preheat Grill: Lightly oil the grill grates and preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F, for optimal cooking.
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Cook Burgers: Place the patties on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on one side. Flip them carefully, and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side. If you like cheese, add it during the last couple of minutes to melt.
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Rest and Serve: Once cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, let the burgers rest for a few minutes. Serve them on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like avocado, grilled red onions, lettuce, and tomato.
Optional: Top with a dollop of spicy chipotle mayo for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Poblano Turkey Burgers
Fridge: Keep cooked Poblano Turkey Burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals!
Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!
Reheating: Thaw burgers overnight in the fridge before reheating on a grill or skillet. Cook until warmed through and preferably reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Leftover Toppings: Store unused toppings like avocado or grilled onions separately in the fridge to maintain freshness, using within 2 days.
Expert Tips for Poblano Turkey Burgers
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Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ground turkey and vibrant poblano peppers to ensure the best flavor and texture in your Poblano Turkey Burgers.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the burger mixture, gently mix to avoid tough patties. Overworking the meat can lead to less juicy results.
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Patty Indentation: Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking, ensuring they cook evenly throughout.
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Check Internal Temperature: Always ensure your turkey burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal juiciness.
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Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to customize your Poblano Turkey Burgers with different toppings, like spicy chipotle mayo or roasted veggies, for added flavor.
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Grill Maintenance: Keep your grill grates well-oiled and preheated to medium-high for a beautiful sear and to prevent sticking during cooking.
Poblano Turkey Burger Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Poblano Turkey Burgers—there are so many delicious ways to customize this dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add finely diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture for a fiery surprise in every bite. The heat from the jalapeños complements the smoky poblanos beautifully!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the turkey with plant-based ground meat or black beans. You’ll achieve a hearty, healthy burger that everyone will love.
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Cheesy Twist: Swap Monterey Jack for pepper jack cheese for a zesty flavor boost. That creamy, spicy goodness will take your burger to the next level.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an aromatic lift. The fresh herbs will not only brighten the flavors but also add a beautiful touch.
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Asian Fusion: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce and ground ginger into the burger mix. Top with sliced cucumbers and sriracha for a delicious twist!
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BBQ Bliss: Blend a tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce into the turkey mixture. This sweet and smoky flavor will enhance each bite and pair wonderfully with grilled onions.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture. The crunch adds a delightful bite that contrasts perfectly with the tender turkey.
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Tangy Sauce: Top your burgers with a homemade cilantro-lime crema or tzatziki sauce. These bright, creamy sauces elevate the burgers to gourmet status!
Each variation adds its own touch, ensuring that your Poblano Turkey Burgers will never be boring. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Poblano Turkey Burgers?
Transform your tasty turkey burgers into a full meal adventure that your family and friends will love!
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Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative to regular fries, their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors of the burgers. Baked until crispy, they add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad loaded with fresh veggies and herbs provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory burgers. The nuttiness of the quinoa balances out the flavors, enhancing your dining experience.
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Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled bring a smoky edge that echoes the poblanos in the burgers. Their charred texture complements the juiciness of each bite.
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Avocado and Tomato Salad: Creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes tossed with a drizzle of lime juice make for a zesty and creamy side. This simple salad adds a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall flavor of the meal.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy slaw with a creamy dressing provides a delightful contrast to the creamy mayo on your burger. Its crispness adds texture while cleansing the palate between bites.
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Craft Beers or Sparkling Water: Complement the burgers with a crisp craft beer for those who enjoy a cold brew, or serve refreshing sparkling water with lime slices for a light, sophisticated pairing that refreshes the palate.
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Chili Lime Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn tossed in chili powder and lime is a vibrant side dish that adds sweetness and a bit of heat to your meal. It’s perfect for summer cookouts and enhances the flavors of the smoky burger.
Make Ahead Options
These Poblano Turkey Burgers are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the burger patties up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and forming them into patties. Once shaped, place them in an airtight container or on a plate covered with plastic wrap before refrigerating to maintain their freshness and prevent any drying out. If you’re planning farther ahead, you can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to grill, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then cook as directed. You’ll serve up juicy, flavorful burgers with minimal effort—perfect for busy nights or spontaneous gatherings!
Poblano Turkey Burgers Recipe FAQs
What kind of poblano peppers should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Choose fresh, firm poblano peppers that have a deep green color and no dark spots. When possible, select peppers that feel heavy for their size, as this indicates juiciness and ripeness. If you’re looking for more heat, feel free to replace them with fresh jalapeños!
How should I store my Poblano Turkey Burgers?
To keep your cooked burgers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure they have cooled to room temperature before sealing them up to maintain their moisture and flavor. I often prepare a double batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Poblano Turkey Burger patties, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm, typically about 1-2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, just thaw them overnight in the fridge before grilling!
What if my turkey burgers come out dry?
Very! If your burgers turn out dry, it might be due to overcooking or using too lean a turkey. Always use ground turkey with a bit of fat, like 93% lean, and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, not a degree more. If you think they might need moisture during cooking, brushing a small amount of mayonnaise or oil on them before grilling can help!
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Of course! Simply use gluten-free buns as an alternative to brioche or potato buns to make these Poblano Turkey Burgers gluten-free. Additionally, check that your mustard and any other sauces are gluten-free as well, making it a delicious option for those with dietary restrictions!
How can I make Poblano Turkey Burgers even more flavorful?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the mixture, or incorporate some finely diced jalapeños for added spice. You can also experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a mild kick!
Flavor-Packed Poblano Turkey Burger Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roast Poblano Peppers: Char the poblano peppers on a grill or broiler until blackened, about 8-10 minutes. Then, place them in a covered bowl to steam for 10 minutes, which makes peeling them easy. Once done, peel and chop the peppers finely.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped poblano peppers, spring onions, dijon mustard, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, mayonnaise, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly blended, but be careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form Patties: With your hands, shape the mixture into six equal-sized patties, about 1-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
- Chill (if necessary): If the mixture feels too soft to handle, cover the patties and refrigerate them for about 20 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat Grill: Lightly oil the grill grates and preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F, for optimal cooking.
- Cook Burgers: Place the patties on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on one side. Flip them carefully, and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side. If you like cheese, add it during the last couple of minutes to melt.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, let the burgers rest for a few minutes. Serve them on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like avocado, grilled red onions, lettuce, and tomato.