Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers
If you’re looking for a delicious twist on the classic burger, you’ve come to the right place! These Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers are one of my favorite recipes for busy weeknights and fun family gatherings. They bring together the creamy goodness of cheese, the spicy kick of fresh jalapeños, and the savory flavor of turkey in a way that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re healthy and satisfying—perfect for anyone trying to keep things light without sacrificing taste!
I love serving these burgers on lettuce wraps for a refreshing crunch, making them not just a meal but an experience. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner at home or hosting friends for a backyard cookout, these burgers are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have juicy burgers ready to grill in no time.
- Family-Friendly: The combination of flavors makes these burgers appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals.
- Deliciously Flavorful: The cream cheese and jalapeños create a mouthwatering filling that elevates your standard turkey burger.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your kitchen. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar adds delightful creaminess while keeping everything light with lean turkey meat. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Filling
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 ounces cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 to 2 jalapeño peppers, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Burgers
- 2 lb ground turkey
- ½ cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoon finely minced onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 to 2 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving
- 6 slices cooked Turkey Bacon
- Optional: lettuce wraps
Variations
One of the best parts about these Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers is their flexibility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste or dietary preferences!
- Swap the protein: Try using ground chicken or beef instead of turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Add more veggies: Mix in some chopped bell peppers or spinach into the turkey mixture for added nutrition.
- Change up the cheese: Use pepper jack cheese for an extra spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder option.
- Experiment with spices: Add some smoked paprika or chili powder to give your burgers even more depth.
How to Make Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar, minced jalapeños, and garlic. Mash everything together until it’s mixed well. This filling is what makes these burgers special, adding creamy goodness and just the right amount of heat.
Step 2: Mix the Burger Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together ground turkey, almond flour, minced onion, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Make sure everything is well combined; this ensures each bite will be flavorful!
Step 3: Stuff Your Burgers
To stuff your burgers using a burger press, start by placing a circle of parchment paper at the bottom. Fill it halfway with your turkey mixture. Then add another circle of parchment on top before pressing down to create a well in the center where you will add your filling.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese Filling
Carefully remove the top press and parchment. Spoon some of that delicious cream cheese mixture into the well you created earlier. Cover it with more turkey mixture and seal those edges tightly—this is where all that yummy goodness hides!
Step 5: Grill Those Burgers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush both sides of your stuffed burgers with olive oil. Grill them for about 7-8 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165ºF. This step is crucial as it ensures your burgers are cooked thoroughly while remaining juicy.
Step 6: Serve Up Your Creation
Top each burger with crispy Turkey Bacon and serve them on lettuce wraps for a fresh twist! Enjoy every bite as you savor this fun spin on traditional burgers.
Now you’re ready to enjoy these fantastic Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; it’s bound to become a favorite at your table too!
Pro Tips for Making Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers
Making the perfect Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers is all about those little details that can take your meal from good to fantastic! Here are some tips to ensure you achieve burger perfection.
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Use fresh jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños provide the best flavor and heat. Dried or canned versions may not give you the same vibrant taste and crisp texture.
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Don’t overmix the turkey: When combining the ground turkey with other ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
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Chill before grilling: If you have time, chill the stuffed burgers in the fridge for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps them hold their shape better on the grill.
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Check doneness with a meat thermometer: To ensure your burgers are cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165ºF.
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Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of spicy mayo can add an extra layer of flavor to your burgers.
How to Serve Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers
Serving up these delicious Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers can be as fun as making them! Here are some ideas on how to present this mouthwatering dish.
Garnishes
- Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of fresh sliced green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the burgers.
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing herbaceous note.
- Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges alongside gives your guests the option to add a zesty squeeze right before enjoying their burger.
Side Dishes
- Sweet potato fries: The sweet and savory combination makes sweet potato fries a perfect match for these spicy burgers. They add a crispy texture and are packed with nutrients.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can balance out the heat from the jalapeños. The crunchiness of cabbage and carrots combined with a tangy dressing creates a delightful contrast.
- Grilled corn on the cob: Brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with spices or nutritional yeast, grilled corn makes for a simple yet flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with turkey burgers.
- Zucchini noodles: For a low-carb option, serve your burgers alongside sautéed zucchini noodles tossed in garlic and olive oil. It’s light, healthy, and incredibly tasty!
Now you’re all set to create an incredible dining experience with your Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
These Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store them for later enjoyment.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the burgers to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Freezing
- To freeze, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place wrapped burgers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just label with the date!
Reheating
- Thaw burgers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat on a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side until warmed through.
- Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
FAQs
Have questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers:
How spicy are Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers?
The spice level of these burgers really depends on how many jalapeños you use and whether you include the seeds. Using one jalapeño with seeds will give you a nice kick, while two without seeds will make it milder. Adjust to your taste!
Can I make Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe already uses almond flour as a substitute for regular flour, making it gluten-free. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like cheese and turkey bacon, are also gluten-free.
How do I know when my Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers are done?
Cook the burgers until they reach an internal temperature of 165ºF. A meat thermometer is your best bet for accuracy!
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Ground chicken can be used as a substitute if you prefer it over turkey. The flavor will still be deliciously creamy and spicy.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re excited to try these delightful Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers! They’re not only packed with flavor but also make for a healthy dinner option that feels indulgent. Whether you’re bringing them to a barbecue or enjoying them at home, they are sure to impress. Enjoy the cooking process and share your creations with friends and family—happy cooking!
Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Jalapeño Popper Turkey Burgers are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic burger, combining the creamy goodness of cheese with the spicy kick of fresh jalapeños. Perfect for busy weeknights or fun family gatherings, these burgers are sure to impress your guests while keeping things light and satisfying. Wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, they offer a refreshing crunch that elevates your dining experience. With easy preparation and make-ahead convenience, you can whip up these flavorful stuffed turkey burgers in no time. Elevate your meals with this delightful recipe that brings together flavor and nutrition effortlessly!
Ingredients
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3 ounces cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 to 2 jalapeño peppers, minced
- 2 lb ground turkey
- ½ cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons finely minced onion
- Olive oil for grilling
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, minced jalapeños, and garlic until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, combine ground turkey, almond flour, minced onion, salt, pepper, and cumin until just mixed.
- Using a burger press or your hands, form patties and create a well in the center of each. Fill with the cream cheese mixture and seal.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat; brush burgers with olive oil and grill for about 7-8 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165ºF.
- Serve on lettuce wraps topped with optional garnishes like sliced green onions or avocado.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (180g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
