**Southwest Turkey Burgers with Zucchini**
Burgers epitomize summer enjoyment, and these Southwest turkey burgers stand out as a tasty favorite. Turkey makes for a superb burger option, although it can occasionally turn out dry. To remedy this, grated zucchini is incorporated into the patties, guaranteeing they stay moist and flavorful during cooking. The seasoning comprises a straightforward yet strong Southwest mix that includes chipotle chili powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cheese is optional, but placing a slice of pepper jack or cheddar on top of the patties provides a delicious enhancement. Personalize your burger with toppings such as lettuce, tomato, guacamole, and chipotle mayo for added zest.
**Ingredients**
*For the turkey patties:*
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup zucchini, grated and pressed to remove excess moisture
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if necessary)
– 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
– 1 teaspoon (smoked) paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
*For the burgers:*
– 4 slices pepper-jack cheese
– 4 buns (gluten-free if necessary)
– 4 leaves of lettuce
– 1 large tomato, sliced
– 1/4 cup guacamole (or avocado slices)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped chipotle chilies in adobo
**Directions**
*For the turkey patties:*
1. Combine the turkey, zucchini, breadcrumbs, chipotle chili powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Split the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
*For the burgers:*
1. Cook the patties by grilling, pan-frying over medium-high heat, or broiling, until fully cooked, roughly 3-5 minutes per side.
2. Add the cheese on top of the patties and allow it to melt prior to removing from heat.
3. Construct the burgers using the buns, lettuce, tomato slices, guacamole, and the blend of mayo and chipotle chilies in adobo. Enjoy!
**Nutrition Facts**: Calories 423, Fat 34g (Saturated 9g, Trans 0), Cholesterol 111mg, Sodium 722mg, Carbs 33g (Fiber 2g, Sugars 6g), Protein 35g.