Delicious Southwestern Turkey Burger and Fries Recipe
In today’s fast-paced world, it can be hard to find the time and motivation to cook a healthy and delicious meal. That’s why I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Southwestern Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries. This dish is a perfect combination of lean protein, flavorful spices, and crispy, oven-baked sweet potato fries.
But why settle for bland and boring chicken or beef burgers when you can spice things up with ground turkey and southwestern seasonings? These turkey burgers are juicy, packed with flavor, and easy to make. The sweet potato fries add a healthy twist to the classic burger and fries combo.
Plus, this recipe makes enough for four servings, making it perfect for feeding your family or hosting a casual dinner party.
The best part of this recipe? You can cook it yourself in just 30 minutes! So skip the takeout, grab your apron, and let’s get started on creating a flavorful meal that your taste buds will thank you for.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of bland, boring burgers? Look no further than our Southwestern Turkey Burgers With Sweet Potato Fries Recipe! This dish is bursting with bold flavors and fresh ingredients that will take your taste buds on a journey to the Southwest.
First off, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Ground turkey is used instead of beef, which is lower in fat and calories. The addition of sweet potato fries also provides a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins.
But, just because it’s healthy doesn’t mean it lacks in flavor. The turkey burgers are seasoned with garlic powder, chili powder, and lime for a zesty kick. We also add green chilies for a bit of heat and Monterey jack pepper cheese for some melty goodness.
Pair it with some creamy avocado, crisp red onions, juicy tomatoes, and refreshing romaine lettuce leaves for a combination of textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, try wrapping the burger in lettuce instead of a bun for a lighter option.
Not only is this recipe delicious and nutritious, it’s also easy to make at home. You don’t need any fancy equipment or culinary expertise to whip up these mouth-watering burgers.
So what are you waiting for? Give our Southwestern Turkey Burgers With Sweet Potato Fries Recipe a try and treat your taste buds to an explosion of spicy-sweet flavors. Trust us, your body and your taste buds will thank you.
Ingredient List
To prepare this tasty dish, you will need some fresh ingredients that can be easily found at your local supermarket or farmer’s market. Here are the essential ingredients you need to create the Southwest Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries Recipe:
- Ground turkey (1 lb)
- Sweet potatoes (2)
- Red onion (1 cup)
- Green chilies (1 can)
- Lime (1)
- Romaine lettuce leaves
- Monterey Jack pepper cheese
- Tomatoes
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Chili powder
- Garlic powder
- Olive oil
The turkey burger needs lean ground turkey to keep it tender and juicy. You can replace the turkey with chicken mince if that is what you have on hand. The sweet potato fries require two large sweet potatoes, which are excellent for their nutritious content and delicious taste. A variety of seasonings will enhance the flavor of both parties, including a blend of chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt and black pepper. Don’t forget to grab some Monterey Jack pepper cheese, red onions, green chilies, lettuce leaves and tomatoes for toppings!
The Recipe How-To
To make these Southwestern turkey burgers with sweet potato fries, I recommend starting by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating up, you can begin preparing your sweet potato fries.
Prepare the Sweet Potato Fries
To make the sweet potato fries, first wash and peel two sweet potatoes. Then, cut them into thin wedges or shoestring fries.
In a bowl, toss the potatoes with two teaspoons of olive oil, one teaspoon of chili powder, one teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed over the fries.
On a baking sheet, spread out the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer so that they roast evenly in the oven. Place the baking sheet in the oven and let them cook for about 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly browned and crispy.
Make the Turkey Burgers
While your sweet potato fries are roasting, you can start making the turkey burgers. In a large mixing bowl, combine one pound of lean ground turkey with one tablespoon of chili powder, one tablespoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup chopped green chilies.
Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into a patty (make sure to wet hands with water to avoid sticking).
You can then cook your turkey burger patties how you like best! Some people enjoy grilling theirs outdoors on the barbecue or on a pan on their stovetop. I prefer baking them by placing them on an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet in the oven and bake them for around 12-15 minutes at 400°F.
Assemble Your Burgers
Now that you have cooked your turkey burger patties and sweet potato fries you are ready to put together your Southwestern turkey burgers!
Take your burger buns and place some romaine lettuce leaf on top followed by a freshly cooked burger patty. Next add some sliced avocado, sliced red onion, sliced tomatoes, 1/4 cup Monterey Jack pepper cheese melted on top of each burger patty and top it off with another romaine lettuce leaf.
Serve alongside the freshly baked spicy sweet potato fries straight outta your oven!
Enjoy your homemade healthy and mouth-watering Southwest Turkey Burger meal!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch things up? Have some dietary restrictions? Fear not – this recipe offers plenty of options for substitutions and variations to suit your needs.
For a plant-based version, swap out the ground turkey for veggie burgers or even crumbled tofu. For an extra kick, try using chipotle seasoning instead of chili powder. And if you’re looking for a healthier option, opt for turkey mince or chicken instead of ground beef.
If sweet potato fries aren’t your thing, regular potato wedges work just as well. Don’t have green chilies on hand? Swap them out for diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
For those who love the taste of avocado, add a few slices on top of the burger or mix a tablespoon of mashed avocado into the patty mixture before cooking. For more crunch, toss in some diced bell peppers or shredded carrots.
It’s important to note that when making substitutions, keep in mind how they will affect the overall taste and texture of the dish. Consider consulting with a smart kitchen assistant like Blue Apron or doing some research beforehand. Additionally, always be mindful of any food allergies or dietary restrictions – consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.
Whatever substitutions and variations you choose, make sure to enjoy this delicious southwestern turkey burger recipe to its fullest!
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving and pairing these delicious Southwestern turkey burgers with sweet potato fries, there are many options to explore. One classic way to enjoy these burgers is with a classic romaine lettuce leaf, topped with slices of avocado and red onion, and juicy ripe tomatoes. The addition of monterey jack pepper cheese adds a bit of spice and depth of flavor to the burger.
For those seeking a spicier twist, you can opt for adding green chilies to your burger patty mix. These offer a bold spicy flavor that will be sure to leave your taste buds begging for more. To balance out the heat, serve the burger with some refreshing lime wedges on the side.
Another excellent pairing would be to swap out the traditional bun for a bed of baked sweet potato wedges or oven-baked sweet potato fries. Not only do they add an extra savory dimension to the dish, but they also pack in some powerful health benefits as well.
If you seek even more creative alternatives, try serving these delectable turkey burgers as lettuce wraps instead! This option is ideal for those who are opting for veggie burgers or lean ground chicken/turkey mince. Just ensure you top them off with freshly diced red onion and cilantro for a finish that’s both crisp and refreshing!
Lastly, let’s not forget about beverage pairings! For perfect results, try something smokey and seasonal like a chipotle or even a California Turkey wine. If you want something with low calories that will still quench your thirst, opt for soda and seltzers from Blue Apron Smart Kitchen. No matter which direction you choose, you can’t go wrong when choosing Southwestern turkey burgers paired served with sweet potato fries!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve cooked the Southwestern Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries, you’ll want to enjoy them again and again. Fortunately, this recipe is versatile enough to make ahead of time, store in the fridge, and reheat for later.
To make ahead of time, prepare the turkey burger mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the sweet potato fries by cutting them into wedges and placing them in a plastic bag with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
When you’re ready to cook your stored turkey burgers and fries, preheat your oven to 425 degrees. Place the prepared sweet potato fries onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spread the fries out into a single layer and roast them for around 25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Next, heat your grill on medium-high heat. Shape your chilled turkey burger mixture into patties that are around ¾ inch thick. If you prepared avocado or fresh produce earlier, feel free to add them to the patties. Grill each patty for about 6-7 minutes per side or until thoroughly cooked.
Once both the fries and turkey burgers are reheated to perfection, it’s time to assemble your plate of perfection! Without deviation from Chipotle themselves offer lettuce wraps as another way of eating these delicious Southwest Turkey Burgers!
If you have any leftovers after dinner, store your already cooked turkey burgers separately from the sweet potato fries in an airtight container and place them in the fridge for up to four days. If you’d like to freeze these dishes for even longer life, individually wrap each component (the burger patties and sweet potato fries) tightly with plastic wrap before placing them together in a resealable freezer bag. These tasty dishes can be frozen for up to three months.
To reheat your leftovers, simply place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for around 10-15 minutes or until heated through. If you’re short on time or don’t have access to an oven, try microwaving your leftovers on high for about one minute per patty along with half a cup of water before eating immediately.
With these helpful tips on how to make-ahead, store and reheat Southwest Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries deliciously well within reach once more!
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want to guarantee the perfect southwestern turkey burger with sweet potato fries, then here are some important tips you should follow. First, use lean ground turkey to reduce the overall calorie and fat intake, while also ensuring that the burgers do not fall apart while cooking. If needed, add a small amount of chicken or turkey mince to help hold everything together.
Be sure to season your burgers generously with garlic powder, chili powder, salt and black pepper for a smokey southwestern flavor that packs a punch. You can also add green chiles or chipotle peppers for an extra kick of spiciness.
When it comes to making the sweet potato fries, prep them ahead of time by peeling and cutting them into wedges. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder and salt before spreading them out on a baking sheet. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer so they roast evenly.
If you want crispy fries without having to deep-fry them, bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven until golden brown and tender on the inside. Turn them halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
Lastly, don’t skimp on toppings! Adding avocado slices, red onion rings, juicy tomatoes and romaine lettuce leaves takes your southwest turkey burger to another level of flavor and nutrition. Don’t forget the Monterey Jack pepper cheese either – it adds just the right amount of creamy goodness to every bite.
Using these tips will help you create delicious southwestern turkey burgers with sweet potato fries that everyone will love. Enjoy!
FAQ
Now that you have all the information about this recipe, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions to clear any doubts that might arise. From cooking time to alternative ingredients, these answers will ensure your meal is prepared without any hitches.
What to use to keep turkey burgers from falling apart?
When making turkey burgers, it is important to have a binding ingredient to keep the meat from falling apart. One effective way to achieve this is to incorporate dry breadcrumbs into the turkey mixture. This will not only absorb any excess moisture, but also act as a binder for the meat, along with the addition of egg, resulting in burgers that hold their shape and won’t crumble on the grill.
How to make Trader Joes sweet potato fries?
Let’s get started on making some delicious sweet potato fries! To begin, we need to preheat the oven to 425 degrees. While that heats up, we’ll want to line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Once that’s done, spread the sweet potato fries out on the pan in a nice even layer. We want them to bake evenly, after all. Pop the pan into the preheated oven and let them bake for about 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them though, we’re looking for a crispy texture. When they’re ready, take the pan out of the oven and let them cool for a bit. Enjoy!
Should sweet potatoes be soaked before frying?
If you’re aiming for perfectly crispy sweet potato slices, you may consider soaking them before frying. While it’s not a mandatory step, soaking them can come in handy. By soaking the potatoes in cold water, you make the starch more accessible, loosening it from the slices and allowing them to crisp up more effectively when fried. So, while not necessary, a soak does have its benefits.
How do you spice up frozen turkey burgers?
Hey there! If you want to give your turkey burgers a bit more oomph, I’ve got just the trick. Before cooking, try sprinkling some seasoning on top of your patties. Some classic options include salt and pepper, Montreal seasoning, Old Bay, and chicken seasoning. Keep in mind, cook times may differ depending on the brand of burger you’re using. Play it safe and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F for a perfectly cooked and juicy burger.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Southwestern Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional burgers. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a leaner and more nutritious option while still enjoying the same great taste. With the combination of ground turkey, green chilies, and spices like garlic powder and chili powder, these burgers have a smoky southwestern flavor that’s sure to please.
Plus, the sweet potato fries are a tasty side dish that pairs perfectly with the burgers. The fries are easy to make and add a touch of sweetness that contrasts well with the spicy flavors in the burgers.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a crowd, this recipe is a smart kitchen choice. Not only is it tasty but it’s also packed with protein and vitamins that your body will thank you for. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, there’s no reason not to give this recipe a try today.
So what are you waiting for? Make these Southwestern Turkey Burgers with Sweet Potato Fries for your next meal and treat yourself to something truly delicious!
Southwestern Turkey Burgers With Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Ingredients
For the sweet potato fries
- 2 sweet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more for sprinkling
- 1/2 lime
For the turkey burger
- 1 1/3 lbs ground turkey, lean
- 1 (4 ounce) can green chilies, diced and drained
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- light cooking spray
- 4 slices 50% -reduced-fat monterey jack pepper cheese
- 4 whole-wheat kaiser rolls
- romaine lettuce leaf
- tomatoes, sliced
- red onion, sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
Instructions
- For the sweet potato fries, preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Wash and dry the potatoes
- With the skin on, slice into 1/2-inch-thick rounds; cut the rounds into 1/2-inch-thick finger-shaped pieces.
- Toss the potatoes in a bowl with the oil, chili powder, garlic powder and salt.
- On a baking sheet, spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer and roast, stirring every 10 minutes, until brown and tender, 30 to 35 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, transfer to a platter or bowl and sprinkle with a little more salt.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix the lean ground turkey with the diced chiles and season with salt and pepper.
- Shape into patties and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Heat a large grill pan or nonstick skillet on medium heat and spritz with canola oil.
- Add the turkey patties to the grill pan and cook until browned on one side, about 4 minutes.
- Flip, reduce the heat to low, cover (if using a skillet) and cook until the juices run pale pink, about 4 more minutes.
- Top with the reduced-fat pepper-jack cheese during the last minute.
- Toast the rolls in the oven or in a toaster oven. Alternatively, grill them 1 minute on each side.
- To assemble: On a platter, place the fries and a burger on a bun and top with lettuce, tomato, onion and avocado slices. Squeeze lime juice over the fries and serve.
Your own notes
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.