I love making these jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers when I want something bold, juicy, and satisfying without feeling heavy. The combination of warm spices, fresh jalapeño, herbs, and melty cheese creates a burger that feels indulgent while still being simple and approachable. Every time I make these, I’m reminded how flavorful turkey burgers can truly be.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because the burgers stay moist and tender instead of dry. I like how the spices add depth without overpowering the turkey, and the pepper jack cheese brings just the right amount of heat. I also appreciate how easy these burgers are to prepare ahead of time, making them perfect for busy days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 large egg
1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds lean ground turkey (about 94% lean)
optional: 6 slices pepper jack cheese for topping
for serving: hamburger buns and preferred toppings
Directions
I begin by preparing all the vegetables so they mix evenly into the burgers. In a large bowl, I whisk together the egg, shredded cheese, onion, garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, Worcestershire sauce, salt, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper until well combined.
I add the ground turkey to the bowl and gently mix everything together using my hands until the mixture is evenly distributed. I divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape them into thick, compact patties.
I place the patties on a lined tray, cover them, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the burgers hold their shape and keeps them juicy while cooking.
To cook, I grill the patties over high heat or cook them in a hot skillet with a little oil. I cook them until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, flipping once during cooking. If I’m adding extra cheese slices, I place them on top during the last minute of cooking. I serve the burgers warm on buns with my favorite toppings.
Servings And Timing
I usually get 6 burgers from this recipe. The preparation time is about 40 minutes, including chilling, and the cooking time is around 10 minutes. The total time comes to approximately 50 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes reduce the jalapeño for a milder burger or add an extra one for more heat. When I want a different flavor profile, I swap cilantro for parsley. I also enjoy serving the patties without buns, sliced over salads, or tucked into wraps.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, I warm them gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent drying out. I also freeze uncooked or cooked patties for up to 3 months and thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?
I often shape the patties a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
How spicy are these burgers?
I find them medium spicy, but I easily adjust the heat by changing the amount of jalapeño.
Can I cook these burgers on the stovetop?
I regularly cook them in a skillet, and they turn out just as juicy as grilled burgers.
What makes these turkey burgers juicy?
I rely on the cheese, egg, and proper seasoning to keep the burgers moist and flavorful.
Can these burgers be frozen?
I freeze both raw and cooked patties, and they reheat very well after thawing.
Conclusion
I keep these jalapeño pepper jack turkey burgers in my regular meal rotation because they’re flavorful, juicy, and easy to customize. Whether I’m cooking for family or prepping meals ahead of time, this recipe always delivers a delicious and reliable result.
Juicy and flavorful turkey burgers infused with jalapeño, pepper jack cheese, and warm spices—perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking and ideal for meal prep or casual gatherings.
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:6 burgers
Ingredients
1 large egg
1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds lean ground turkey (about 94% lean)
Optional: 6 slices pepper jack cheese for topping
For serving: hamburger buns and preferred toppings
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, shredded cheese, onion, garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, Worcestershire sauce, salt, paprika, cumin, and black pepper.
Add the ground turkey and gently mix until just combined.
Divide into 6 equal portions and shape into thick, compact patties.
Place patties on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat a grill or skillet over high heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
If using, add cheese slices during the last minute of cooking.
Serve warm on buns with desired toppings.
Notes
Adjust jalapeño quantity to modify spice level.
Swap cilantro for parsley for a different herb flavor.
Serve patties bun-less over salads or in wraps for a lighter option.
Chilling the patties helps them hold shape while cooking.
Freeze raw or cooked patties up to 3 months; thaw in fridge before reheating.
