There’s something about summer that calls for grilling—the scent of sizzling burgers, the warmth of the sun, and laughter echoing from backyard gatherings. This Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burger is one of those recipes that brings everyone together. It’s gourmet enough to impress, but simple enough to make it a weeknight staple.
This dish was inspired by my own summer memories—my grandmother would caramelize onions with patience and love, her kitchen filled with the aroma of sweet vinegar and slow-cooked magic. I’ve taken that classic approach and brought it to a leaner, protein-rich burger that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Juicy ground turkey meets bold balsamic onions and creamy provolone, nestled in your favorite bun or served bun-less over crisp greens.
Whether you’re grilling by the pool or firing up the cast iron in your kitchen, this recipe is a summer essential.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Lean but juicy – Ground turkey with a perfect mix of seasonings keeps these burgers moist.
-
Sweet and tangy topping – Balsamic caramelized onions are the showstopper here.
-
Grill or skillet – Versatile cooking options make this recipe work for any kitchen.
-
Gourmet flair, simple steps – Easy to follow, impressive to serve.
Ingredients
For the Balsamic Caramelized Onions:
-
3 large onions (white or red), halved and thinly sliced
-
½ cup balsamic vinegar
-
Water as needed (approx. ⅓ cup added in stages)
For the Turkey Burgers:
-
2 lbs ground turkey (93% lean or 99% lean)
-
½ cup finely chopped onion
-
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
-
2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 3 large cloves)
-
1 tablespoon dried thyme
For Assembling:
-
8 slices provolone cheese
-
Balsamic caramelized onions (from above)
-
Your choice of buns or base: whole wheat buns, English muffins, pita bread, lettuce wraps, or salad greens
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Balsamic Caramelized Onions
These onions are slow-cooked to perfection, creating a rich, sweet topping.
-
In a large skillet or pot with a lid, add the sliced onions and balsamic vinegar.
-
Cover and cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes.
-
Remove the lid and continue cooking, stirring every few minutes until the vinegar has evaporated.
-
Add ⅓ cup of water and stir. Cook until the liquid is gone. Repeat this process (adding water, stirring, cooking it off) until the onions are deeply browned and caramelized. This takes an additional 15–20 minutes.
-
Set aside and keep warm until ready to serve.
Chef’s Tip: Low and slow is key. Don’t rush the onions—they’re what take this burger from everyday to exceptional.
2. Prepare the Turkey Patties
-
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, finely chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and dried thyme.
-
Gently mix the ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overwork the mixture to ensure the burgers stay juicy and tender.
-
Form into 8 evenly sized patties.
3. Grill or Skillet Cook the Burgers
Grill Method:
-
Preheat grill to medium-high.
-
Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
-
Grill patties for 6–7 minutes per side, flipping only once.
-
Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Stovetop Method:
-
Preheat a cast iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
-
Add a little oil and cook burgers as above, about 7 minutes per side.
Finish with Cheese: Place a slice of provolone on each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover the grill or skillet to melt.
4. Assemble and Serve
Place each burger on your choice of bun or greens, top generously with balsamic onions, and serve hot. Add any extras like arugula, sliced tomatoes, or aioli if you’d like to customize it.
Serving Suggestions
-
Pair with grilled corn, sweet potato fries, or a fresh summer salad.
-
Want low-carb? Serve on lettuce wraps or over a bed of arugula.
-
Add a drizzle of garlic aioli or a touch of Dijon mustard for extra zing.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
-
Calories: ~223
-
Protein: High in lean protein from turkey
-
Fat: ~11g (varies with turkey fat content and cheese)
-
Carbs: Depends on bun or base
21 Day Fix: 1 Red, ½ Blue, ¼ Green
Weight Watchers Freestyle:
3 points with 99% lean turkey
7 points with 93% lean turkey (buns not included)
Reader Tips & Variations
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the onions or a slice of jalapeño on top.
-
Herb Swap: Try rosemary instead of thyme for an earthy flavor.
-
Different Cheese: Swap provolone for mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack.
Storage & Make-Ahead
-
Onions: Make up to 3 days in advance. Store in fridge, reheat gently.
-
Burger Patties: Can be shaped a day ahead and kept in the fridge.
-
Cooked Burgers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
More recipes to try
These Balsamic Caramelized Onion Turkey Burgers are proof that healthy doesn’t have to mean bland. With rich, sweet-savory onions and juicy turkey seasoned just right, this recipe is a go-to for summer BBQs, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep.
From my family’s kitchen to yours, this dish is all about balance—flavor, freshness, and feel-good simplicity. Whether you’re flipping burgers on the grill or cooking stovetop with a glass of iced tea in hand, this recipe brings a little joy to every plate.
Happy grilling, my friend!f