Wow Turkey Deluxe 🦃🔥 Recipe

Prep

Pat ground turkey dry with paper towels in a bowl to remove excess moisture; this helps the patties sear instead of steaming.

In a large mixing bowl combine ground turkey, grated onion, minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands or a spatula and gently mix until just combined—do not overwork (about 20–30 seconds).

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 115 g each). Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick and slightly wider than the bun, pressing a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to reduce doming as they cook.

Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tsp olive oil and let it shimmer but not smoke. Place patties in the pan without overcrowding; you may need two batches.

Cook the patties 4–5 minutes on the first side without moving until nicely browned. Flip and add a slice of pepper jack cheese to each patty. Cook 3–4 minutes more until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is melted. Remove patties to a plate and loosely tent with foil to keep warm.

While patties rest (or up to 24 hours ahead), whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, sriracha, hot honey, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl until smooth and homogenous. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness: add more sriracha for heat or more honey for sweetness.

Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Toast buns: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a clean skillet over medium heat. Place cut sides of buns down and toast 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove from heat.

Assemble: Spread about 1 heaping tablespoon of Spicy WOW Sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Add a handful (about 1/4 cup) of shredded lettuce, then place the turkey patty with melted cheese on top. Add 2–3 dill pickle chips, a couple slices of tomato, and a few thin rings of red onion. Spoon another 1 teaspoon of sauce on the top bun (or more to taste) and close the sandwich.

Serve: Serve immediately while patties are hot. Provide extra Spicy WOW Sauce on the side for dipping.