Experience the ultimate taste of the tropics with this easy-to-follow Hawaiian turkey burger recipe. These homemade turkey burgers, served on soft King’s Hawaiian hamburger buns, are crowned with a vibrant pineapple jalapeño onion relish and melted pepper jack cheese for an unforgettable flavor adventure.

The sizzle of the grill and the aroma of summer cooking are undeniable signals that grilling season is officially in full swing. For many, this means a steady rotation of classic hamburgers, but if you’re like us, you’re always seeking innovative ways to keep things fresh, exciting, and perhaps a little healthier. That’s where these incredible Hawaiian Turkey Burgers come into play, offering a lean, flavorful alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Whether you’ve previously enjoyed our Bruschetta Turkey Burgers or savored the unique Spinach Artichoke Turkey Burgers, you know we’re passionate about elevating the humble burger. This Hawaiian rendition takes that passion to a whole new level, perfectly blending sweet, spicy, and savory notes into every bite. It’s a dish that truly captures the essence of a tropical getaway, right from your backyard grill.

This delicious post is proudly sponsored by King’s Hawaiian.

Hawaiian Turkey Burgers: A Tropical Twist on Your Favorite Grill Recipe

Get ready to transform your grilling experience with our ultimate Hawaiian Turkey Burgers! This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary escape to a sun-drenched beach, bringing vibrant island flavors directly to your plate. Perfect for those looking for a healthier burger option without sacrificing an ounce of deliciousness, these burgers combine lean ground turkey patties with a unique, homemade pineapple jalapeño onion relish and the unmistakable sweetness of King’s Hawaiian buns.

We believe that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on flavor, and these Hawaiian Turkey Burgers are a testament to that philosophy. With swimsuit season often coinciding with prime grilling time, finding lighter alternatives that still satisfy your burger cravings is key. This recipe hits all the right notes: it’s juicy, packed with incredible taste, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how you can create this tropical masterpiece at home.

The Star of the Show: Homemade Pineapple Jalapeño Onion Relish

What truly sets these Hawaiian Turkey Burgers apart is the incredible homemade relish. Forget generic toppings; this sweet, spicy, and tangy condiment is a game-changer. Imagine perfectly caramelized onions, sweet and juicy pineapple chunks, and a hint of fiery jalapeño, all cooked down into a vibrant relish that bursts with tropical flavor. This relish doesn’t just sit on top of the burger; it melds with the turkey, cheese, and bun, creating a harmonious blend of tastes that will leave you craving more. It’s an unexpected combination that delivers a delightful surprise with every mouthful.

Making this relish is simpler than you might think and adds a gourmet touch to your burgers. The slow caramelization of the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which is beautifully complemented by the tartness of the pineapple and the subtle kick from the fresh jalapeños. This isn’t just a topping; it’s a flavor enhancer that ties the entire Hawaiian theme together.

The Foundation: Lean & Flavorful Turkey Patties

Opting for ground turkey over traditional beef offers a lighter, leaner base for these burgers, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious diners. But “lean” doesn’t have to mean “bland.” Our turkey patties are seasoned perfectly with sesame oil, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and fresh green onions, ensuring every bite is rich in savory depth. The key to a juicy turkey burger lies in proper seasoning and careful handling – avoid over-mixing the meat to keep it tender and moist.

Grilling turkey burgers requires a slightly different approach than beef. They tend to be a bit more delicate, so ensuring your grill or skillet is properly preheated and oiled is crucial for preventing sticking and achieving that perfect sear. We’ll guide you through the process to ensure your patties are cooked to perfection, golden brown on the outside and wonderfully juicy within.

The Unsung Hero: King’s Hawaiian Sweet Hamburger Buns

No Hawaiian Turkey Burger would be complete without the iconic King’s Hawaiian Sweet Hamburger Buns. If you’ve only ever enjoyed their famous sweet rolls, prepare for a revelation! King’s Hawaiian also offers these delightful, pillowy-soft buns in hamburger and hot dog sizes, and they are absolutely essential for this recipe. Their signature sweetness provides the ideal counterpoint to the savory turkey and the spicy relish, creating a balanced flavor profile that truly transports you to the islands. The soft texture cradles the patty and toppings beautifully, making every bite a heavenly experience.

You’ll definitely want to grab these at the grocery store before you start whipping up these burgers. Trust us, they make all the difference in achieving that authentic Hawaiian burger experience. Their unique taste and texture elevate the entire dish, transforming a simple burger into a gourmet meal.

Hawaiian Turkey Burgers Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 cup onion (diced)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple (diced)
• ¼ cup fresh jalapeño (diced)
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp sea salt
• ¼ cup green onion (minced)
• 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese
• 4 King’s Hawaiian Sweet Hamburger Buns

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Perfect Hawaiian Turkey Burgers

Crafting these delicious Hawaiian Turkey Burgers is a straightforward process, designed to bring maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Follow these simple steps for a truly memorable meal:

1. **Prepare the Relish:** In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, fresh pineapple, and jalapeño.
2. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions and pineapple are beautifully caramelized and softened. This process develops a deep, sweet flavor that is crucial for the relish. Once done, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the burgers.
3. **Preheat Grill or Skillet:** Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Alternatively, if grilling, brush the olive oil directly onto a heated grill to prevent sticking.
4. **Form the Turkey Patties:** In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, sesame oil, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and minced green onion. Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough burgers.
5. Divide the seasoned turkey mixture into 4 equal portions and carefully form them into burger patties, about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging while cooking.
6. **Cook the Burgers:** Place the patties onto the hot skillet or grill. Cook for 7-9 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your patties and the heat of your grill/skillet.
7. **Add the Cheese:** Approximately two minutes before the burgers are finished cooking, place a slice of Pepper Jack cheese on top of each patty. Allow the cheese to melt into a gooey, delicious layer, adding a subtle spicy creaminess to the burger.
8. **Toast the Buns:** While the cheese is melting, lightly toast the King’s Hawaiian Hamburger Buns on the grill or in a separate pan. This adds a lovely texture and warmth.
9. **Assemble and Serve:** Carefully remove the cooked, cheesy turkey burgers from the grill or skillet and place them onto the lightly toasted King’s Hawaiian Hamburger Buns.
10. Finally, generously top each burger with a spoonful of the prepared Pineapple Onion Jalapeño Relish. Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors!

This burger truly embodies “a little sweet, a little spice, deliciously nice!” The combination of textures and flavors creates a truly satisfying and unique meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive backyard BBQs.

Tips for Grilling Perfection

Achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy turkey burger is simpler than you might think. Here are a few expert tips to ensure your Hawaiian Turkey Burgers are always a hit:

• **Don’t Overwork the Meat:** When mixing the ground turkey with seasonings, use a light hand. Overworking the meat can result in tough, dense burgers. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• **Create an Indentation:** Before cooking, press a shallow indentation into the center of each patty. This prevents the burgers from puffing up in the middle during cooking, ensuring an even thickness.
• **Preheat Thoroughly:** Whether you’re using a grill or a skillet, make sure it’s fully preheated to medium-high heat before adding the patties. This helps create a beautiful sear and prevents sticking.
• **Resist Pressing:** It’s tempting to press down on burgers with a spatula, but this squeezes out valuable juices, leading to dry patties. Let them cook undisturbed until it’s time to flip.
• **Monitor Internal Temperature:** The safest way to ensure turkey burgers are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• **Let Them Rest:** Once cooked, allow the burgers to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more succulent burger.

Customizing Your Hawaiian Burger Experience

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to customize it to your liking. If Pepper Jack isn’t your preference, try a slice of provolone, Swiss, or even a smoked gouda for a different cheesy dimension. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a slice of grilled pineapple directly onto the burger, enhancing that tropical sweetness. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top of the relish could also add an interesting textural and flavor element. Serve these burgers with a simple side salad, crispy sweet potato fries, or a fresh coleslaw to complete the meal. A refreshing glass of iced tea or a tropical fruit smoothie would perfectly complement the island vibes.

Nutrition Highlights of This Delicious Recipe

Understanding the nutritional value of what you eat can help you make informed choices. These Hawaiian Turkey Burgers offer a great balance of macronutrients, making them a satisfying and healthier meal option. Here’s a quick overview based on a single serving:

These Hawaiian Turkey Burgers are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to explore new flavors and enjoy a healthier, yet incredibly satisfying, grilling experience. With fresh ingredients, a vibrant homemade relish, and the sweet embrace of King’s Hawaiian buns, you’re set to create a meal that will impress everyone at your table. Get grilling and let the tropical flavors transport you!

If you made this delicious recipe, we’d love to see it! Share your creations on Instagram and tag @WhitneyBond using the hashtag #WBRecipes!