Name: Avocado Turkey Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground turkey; 1 ripe avocado, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking); 4 burger buns or lettuce wraps; Optional toppings: sliced tomato, red onion, lettuce, extra avocado

Avocado Turkey Burgers a juicy, flavor-packed turkey burgers blended with creamy avocado and fresh herbs create a tender and healthy twist on the classic burger. I love how the avocado melts right into the turkey, adding richness without needing extra fillers. Whether I grill them outdoors or cook them on the stovetop, they always turn out moist and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it keeps turkey burgers incredibly juicy, something that can sometimes be tricky with lean ground turkey. The avocado adds natural creaminess and healthy fats, while lime juice, cilantro, and smoked paprika bring fresh and smoky flavor to every bite.

I also appreciate how quickly these burgers come together. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I can have a wholesome, high-protein meal ready in just over 20 minutes. I can serve them on classic buns for a traditional feel or wrap them in lettuce for a lighter, low-carb option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ pounds ground turkey

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 ripe avocado, diced

2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon sea salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

4 burger buns or lettuce wraps

Optional toppings: sliced tomato, red onion, lettuce, extra avocado

Directions

I start by placing the ground turkey in a large mixing bowl. Then I add the diced avocado, minced garlic, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. I gently mix everything together just until combined, making sure not to overwork the meat so the burgers stay tender.

Next, I divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about ¾-inch thick.

I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, or I preheat my grill to medium-high heat if I am cooking outside. I cook the patties for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Once cooked, I remove the burgers from the heat and let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes. Then I serve them on toasted buns or crisp lettuce wraps with my favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Each serving contains approximately 320 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap the cilantro for fresh parsley or basil when I want a different herb flavor. If I like a little heat, I mix in finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes.

For a Mediterranean-inspired version, I add crumbled feta and a touch of oregano. When I want a dairy-free sauce, I spread mashed avocado mixed with lime and salt on top instead of using cheese. I also enjoy serving these burgers bunless over a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze the cooked burgers individually wrapped for up to 2 months.

To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, or I use the microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out. If reheating from frozen, I let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.

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FAQs

How do I keep turkey burgers from drying out?

I make sure not to overmix the meat, and I rely on the diced avocado to add moisture. Cooking just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F also helps prevent overcooking.

Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking them on the stove?

Yes, I often grill them over medium-high heat. I lightly oil the grates and handle the patties carefully since they are very tender.

Can I make the patties ahead of time?

I shape the patties and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes weeknight dinners even easier for me.

Are these burgers good for meal prep?

I find they are excellent for meal prep. I cook a batch, refrigerate or freeze them, and pair them with different sides throughout the week.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

I can substitute ground chicken with similar results. I still include the avocado to keep the patties moist and flavorful.

Conclusion

I love how these avocado turkey burgers deliver bold flavor, wholesome ingredients, and satisfying texture in every bite. They are quick enough for busy evenings yet impressive enough for casual gatherings. Whether I grill them outside or cook them indoors, I always end up with a juicy, healthy burger that feels both comforting and fresh.

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