Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Start by gathering the scallions, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic. Place them into a food processor along with a small drizzle of vegetable oil, about one teaspoon, to help with blending. Pulse the mixture until everything is finely chopped and well combined, creating a vibrant, aromatic paste that infuses the turkey with bold Tex Mex flavors. This step ensures even distribution of the spicy and herby elements throughout the meat.​

Scrape the mixture from the food processor into a large bowl. The scent of fresh cilantro and garlic will fill your kitchen, promising a delicious result. Avoid over-processing to keep some texture for better mouthfeel in the final burger. This base is key to elevating the otherwise mild ground turkey.​

Step 2: Mix the Burger Patties

Add the 1 lb of ground turkey to the bowl with the flavor paste. Sprinkle in 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Use clean hands to gently mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can make the burgers tough.​

Divide the mixture into four equal portions by scoring the bowl’s surface lightly with your finger. The spices will coat the turkey evenly, giving it that signature smoky and spicy profile. Taste a tiny pinch of the mixture if needed to adjust seasoning before forming patties.​

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Lightly oil a plate using a brush or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Form each portion into a patty, making them slightly larger than your kaiser rolls since they shrink during cooking. Press a small dent in the center of each patty with your thumb; this prevents puffing and ensures even cooking.​

Cover the plate with plastic wrap and refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes to an hour. Chilling firms them up, helping them hold shape on the grill. This resting period also allows flavors to meld deeply into the turkey.​

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

While patties chill, preheat your grill pan over medium heat or fire up an outdoor grill to medium. Brush the grates or pan generously with vegetable oil to avoid sticking. Indoor grilling works well in hot weather, as shown in the video.​

Test the heat by holding your hand a few inches above; it should feel hot after 5 minutes. This temperature cooks the burgers evenly without drying them out. Prepare toppings like slicing cheese and readying guacamole nearby.​

Step 5: Grill the Burgers

Place the patties on the hot grill. Cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F for turkey safety. Flip only once to develop a nice sear.​

In the last minute, top each burger with a slice of pepper jack cheese. The cheese melts beautifully over the heat, adding creamy sharpness that complements the spices. Remove from grill and let rest briefly.​

Step 6: Toast the Rolls and Assemble

Lightly toast the kaiser rolls on the grill for 1 minute until golden. Spread guacamole on the bottom bun, add the cheesy burger patty, then pico de gallo salsa and a dollop of sour cream. Top with the other bun half.​

Slice into the burger to reveal juicy layers. The combination keeps it light yet satisfying, avoiding heavy mayo. Serve immediately for peak flavor.