Salsa Cheeseburgers

Salsa Cheeseburgers are a mouthwatering fusion of classic American burgers and zesty Mexican flavors. Combining ground turkey (or chicken) with spicy salsa and melted cheddar cheese, these burgers are a delightful twist on traditional hamburgers. The result is a juicy, flavorful patty that’s perfect for grilling or broiling. Served with a variety of toppings and a homemade spicy salsa, these burgers offer a vibrant and satisfying culinary experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 package (about 1 1/4 pounds) PERDUE® FIT ‘N EASY™ Fresh Ground Turkey Breast Meat, Ground Turkey, or Ground Chicken
• 1 cup Spicy Salsa (recipe follows) or prepared tomato salsa, well-drained
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 8 slices French or Italian bread or 4 hamburger rolls
• Mayonnaise
• Shredded lettuce
• Avocado slices
• Red onion slices
• Additional Spicy Salsa (optional)
• Lime or lemon wedges (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare an outdoor grill for cooking or preheat the broiler.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey (or chicken), 1 cup of salsa, chopped cilantro, and salt. Form the mixture into 4 burger patties.
3. Grill or broil the burgers 5 to 6 inches from the heat source for approximately 5 minutes on each side or until they are no longer pink in the center. Just before removing the burgers from the grill, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the tops. Cover and cook for about 1 minute or until the cheese melts.
4. Optionally, grill or broil the bread lightly.
5. Serve the burgers between the slices of bread, topping each burger with your choice of mayonnaise, shredded lettuce, avocado slices, red onion slices, and additional salsa, if desired. Garnish the burgers with lime or lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Spicy Salsa:

• In a medium bowl, combine 1 pound of ripe plum tomatoes (about 5), finely chopped and seeded, 1/4 cup minced white or yellow onion, 1 fresh hot green chili pepper (seeded and minced) or 2 tablespoons of canned chopped green chilies, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro (coriander) sprigs (optional), and salt to taste.
• Cover the salsa and refrigerate it for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours before serving. Longer storage can reduce the salsa’s fresh flavor and texture. This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of salsa.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Serve these delicious Salsa Cheeseburgers with a side of Mexican rice or crispy French fries.
• Accompany them with a refreshing side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
• Customize your burger with your favorite toppings such as sliced jalapeños, pickles, or grilled bell peppers.
• For a vegetarian option, consider substituting black bean or veggie burger patties while keeping the spicy salsa and cheese for flavor.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

• Any leftover burgers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
• To reheat, gently warm the burgers in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve their texture.
• The homemade spicy salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, for optimal freshness, it’s best to consume it within the first day.

NOTE:

Salsa Cheeseburgers offer a tantalizing blend of flavors that are sure to please your palate. This recipe combines the juiciness of burgers with the zing of salsa for a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re firing up the grill or using the broiler, these burgers are a crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Enjoy this delectable fusion of American and Mexican cuisine!