If you’re like me, always on the hunt for something easy yet satisfying, these mini black bean turkey burgers could be your next obsession. Not only are they a breeze to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when time seems to slip away—but they also pack a delightful punch of flavor that might just surprise you. Plus, who doesn’t love a good burger that sneaks in some extra veggies without anyone noticing?
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drain and rinse a 15oz can of black beans, then place them in a large bowl and mash slightly with your hands or a potato masher.
- Slice three green onions and add them to the bowl. Mix in 1/2 tablespoon of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to season the beans.
- Incorporate 19oz of lean ground turkey into the seasoned bean mixture. Use your hands to mix until everything is evenly combined.
- Shape the mixture into approximately ten small patties, each around 2.5 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Arrange the patties on a foil-lined baking sheet topped with wire racks.
- Bake the patties for 20 minutes, or until they are browned on the outside and no longer pink in the center. Alternatively, cook them in a skillet, on a grill, or using an indoor grill.
- While the patties are baking, prepare the avocado sauce. In a blender, combine one diced avocado, the juice of half a lime, 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon sugar, and 1/2 cup sour cream. Slowly add 2-4 tablespoons of water while blending until smooth.
- To assemble the burgers, spread some avocado sauce inside each pita half, add a few slices of Roma tomato, and place two turkey patties in each pita.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 19 oz lean ground turkey
- 1 avocado, diced
- Juice from 1/2 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 to 4 tablespoons water
- 5 pita halves
- 2 Roma tomatoes, sliced
Nutritional Values
Calories: 396.94kcal | Carbohydrates: 27.74g | Protein: 29.5g | Fat: 19.88g | Sodium: 877mg | Fiber: 12.02g | Sugars: N/A | Saturated Fat: N/A | Cholesterol: N/A
FAQ
- Can I replace the turkey with another type of meat?
- Yes, you can substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and nutritional content will change slightly.
- What are some alternative serving options for the mini burgers?
- While pita bread is a budget-friendly option, you can also serve these mini burgers on traditional burger buns, lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or even as a topping for salads.
- Can I make these burgers in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked patties for longer storage, then defrost and cook as needed.
- Is there a way to make the burgers spicier?
- To add more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños to the burger mixture. Adjust the spices to your taste preference.
- Can I skip the avocado sauce, or is there an alternative?
- The avocado sauce is optional and can be skipped if you’re short on time or ingredients. As an alternative, you can use plain sliced avocado, or even a dollop of your favorite salsa or hot sauce to complement the flavors of the burger.
Tips
- Spice Up the Flavor: Customize your burgers by adding your favorite spices. Consider incorporating cumin and sriracha for a southwest twist, or mix in some shredded pepper jack cheese for a cheesy burst.
- Experiment with Cooking Methods: While baking is a no-fuss option, you can also try cooking the patties on a skillet or grill for a different texture and flavor. Each method offers a unique cooking experience.
- Make Use of Affordable Ingredients: Opt for pita bread as a cost-effective alternative to buns, and use seasonal produce like avocados and tomatoes for toppings, keeping your meal both delicious and budget-friendly.
- Adjust Patty Size for Cooking Efficiency: Feel free to make full-sized patties, but remember they may require a longer cooking time compared to the mini ones. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.
Equipment
- Potato Masher – You might need this if you don’t have one at home for mashing the black beans.
- Wire Cooling Racks – Used to allow air circulation under the burgers while baking.
- Blender – Needed for making the avocado-sour cream sauce.
