Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers Recipe

Introduction

Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers are a mouthwatering twist on the classic turkey burger, offering a flavorful combination of tender turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy, spicy guacamole. These burgers are juicy, packed with a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and creamy elements, making them a standout choice for any barbecue, weeknight dinner, or casual gathering. The guacamole adds an extra layer of richness and heat, while the turkey and bacon combination ensures each bite is satisfying and delicious.

Whether you’re a fan of turkey burgers or simply looking for a healthier alternative to beef burgers, this recipe provides a savory, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite. With a little extra kick from jalapeños and a hint of smoky bacon, these burgers deliver an exciting and delicious twist on the classic burger experience.

Why You’ll Love Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers

• Flavor-packed with Spicy, Savory, and Creamy Notes: The combination of spicy guacamole, crispy bacon, and juicy turkey ensures a multi-dimensional flavor profile that’s both rich and refreshing.
• Lean and Delicious: Using ground turkey in place of beef makes these burgers a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. The turkey keeps the burgers juicy while the bacon brings that irresistible smoky crunch.
• Easy to Make: This recipe involves simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for home cooks of all experience levels. The spicy guacamole can be prepped ahead, and the burgers cook up in no time.
• Customizable to Your Taste: The burger’s heat level can be easily adjusted by adding more or less jalapeño or seasoning, so you can make it as mild or as spicy as you like. Plus, you can top them with your favorite cheese, veggies, or sauces.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re having a backyard cookout or making a quick dinner for the family, Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers are versatile and perfect for any meal or event.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 4 burgers
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories per burger, depending on the ingredients and toppings.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers:

• 1 lb ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 burger buns (whole wheat or brioche recommended)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• Optional: 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, or your preferred variety)
• Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

For the Spicy Guacamole:

• 2 ripe avocados, mashed
• 1 small tomato, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, adjust to desired spice level)
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spicy Guacamole

Start by preparing the spicy guacamole. In a medium bowl, mash the ripe avocados with a fork until smooth, leaving a few chunks for texture if desired. Stir in the chopped tomato, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a milder guacamole, you can adjust the amount of jalapeño or omit the cayenne pepper entirely.

Once the guacamole is ready, set it aside, or refrigerate it if you’re preparing it ahead of time. It’s best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to a day.

2. Prepare the Burger Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, crumbled bacon, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and chopped jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients together gently until just combined—be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the burgers tough.

Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Make sure the patties are slightly larger than your burger buns, as they will shrink slightly while cooking.

3. Cook the Burgers

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, carefully add the burger patties. Cook the burgers for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). If you’re using cheese, place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt.

Alternatively, you can grill the burgers over medium heat, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. Grilling will impart a slightly smoky flavor to the burgers, which pairs wonderfully with the spicy guacamole.

4. Toast the Buns

While the burgers are cooking, slice the burger buns in half and lightly toast them in a separate pan or on the grill. Toasting the buns adds a bit of crunch and prevents them from becoming soggy when topped with the guacamole and turkey patty.

5. Assemble the Burgers

Once the turkey patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble the burgers. Place each turkey-bacon patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Generously top each patty with a spoonful of the spicy guacamole.

Add any additional toppings you prefer, such as fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness or sliced tomato for added juiciness.

Place the top half of the bun on each burger and serve immediately. These burgers are perfect when paired with sweet potato fries, a side salad, or your favorite chips.

Tips for Perfect Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers

• Use Lean Turkey: Choose 93% lean ground turkey for a healthier burger option that still stays juicy. If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for 99% lean ground turkey, but you may need to adjust your seasoning to account for the lack of fat.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder burger, use less jalapeño in both the turkey patties and the guacamole. Alternatively, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Cook the Bacon Crisply: For the best texture and flavor, make sure the bacon is crispy before crumbling it into the turkey patty mixture. This adds a smoky crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy guacamole.
• Chill the Patties: If you’re making the patties ahead of time, refrigerate them for 30 minutes before cooking. Chilling the patties helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
• Go Beyond the Bun: For a low-carb or gluten-free option, serve the burgers in lettuce wraps or on gluten-free buns. You can also try serving them without any bun at all, with extra guacamole on the side as a dip.

Variations of Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers

• Avocado and Chipotle Turkey-Bacon Burgers: Swap the jalapeños in the guacamole for smoked chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This will add a smoky, earthy flavor to the guacamole and burger.
• Cilantro-Lime Turkey-Bacon Burgers: Add chopped cilantro to both the burger mixture and the guacamole for an extra burst of fresh, zesty flavor. You can also mix in some lime zest for a citrusy punch.
• BBQ Turkey-Bacon Burgers: For a sweeter variation, drizzle barbecue sauce over the cooked turkey patty and top with the guacamole. This creates a fantastic sweet-and-spicy flavor profile.
• Mushroom and Swiss Turkey-Bacon Burgers: Sauté mushrooms in butter until golden and place them on top of the turkey patty, then melt Swiss cheese over it for a savory, umami-packed burger.

Storage and Shelf Life

Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Keep the burgers and guacamole separate, as the guacamole may become brown when stored. To reheat the burgers, place them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked turkey patties (without the guacamole). To freeze, place the patties on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat them in a skillet or oven, then top with fresh guacamole.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers

Pair these delicious burgers with complementary sides and drinks to enhance your meal:

• Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries pairs perfectly with the spicy guacamole and savory turkey-bacon burger.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the burgers with a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob, for a light and flavorful contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing Caesar salad is an ideal side dish to balance the rich, creamy burger.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing iced tea or lemonade will help cool down the heat from the spicy guacamole, providing the perfect drink pairing.

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Conclusion

Spicy Guacamole Turkey-Bacon Burgers are a fun and flavorful twist on the traditional burger. With juicy turkey, crispy bacon, and creamy, spicy guacamole, these burgers offer a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a casual dinner, this recipe delivers a burst of deliciousness in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your spice preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy the ultimate turkey burger experience with this irresistible recipe!