Nothing beats the fresh, vibrant flavors of a summer cookout quite like my favorite Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe. These juicy burgers combine lean ground turkey with tangy feta cheese, wholesome spinach, and a cool, creamy tzatziki that makes every bite a mouthwatering delight. Whether you’re craving a lighter, Mediterranean-inspired meal or looking for a dinner that’s both satisfying and full of personality, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each element is carefully chosen to deliver a balance of flavors, textures, and colors that make the dish both nutritious and visually appealing.
- 1 pound ground turkey: The perfect lean base that stays juicy when combined with the other ingredients.
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a salty, creamy pop that’s quintessentially Greek and blends beautifully with the turkey.
- ¼ cup packed spinach (thawed and drained): Sneaks in nutrition while contributing fresh flavor and color.
- 2 tablespoons tzatziki sauce: Brings a cool, tangy creaminess right into the patty mix for extra moisture and flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Boost the savory aroma and depth of the burgers.
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely diced): Adds a sharp bite and crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy feta.
- 2 teaspoons Greek seasoning: Infuses each bite with herbs and spices that transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.
- ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and brighten the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil: Perfect for cooking the patties evenly and achieving a golden crust.
- 2 cups arugula: Adds a peppery bite and freshness for the tzatziki slaw topping.
- 2 tablespoons tzatziki sauce: Used again for the slaw, creating a harmonious dressing for the greens.
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese: Sprinkled in the slaw to echo the burger’s flavors and boost creaminess.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: To season the slaw perfectly.
- 4 hamburger buns (toasted): The sturdy foundation that holds all the flavors together without falling apart.
- Hummus (optional): Adds an extra layer of richness and creaminess if you want to kick things up a notch.
- Tomato slices (optional): For juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- Red onion slices (optional): Adds fresh crunch and sharpness to balance out the burger.
How to Make Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients to Make the Patties
Start by mixing the ground turkey, crumbled feta, fully thawed and drained spinach, tzatziki sauce, minced garlic, finely diced red onion, Greek seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This blend ensures every bite is bursting with that classic Mediterranean flavor. Once well-combined, divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 4½ to 5 inches wide and roughly an inch thick. These dimensions help the burgers cook evenly and remain juicy inside.
Step 2: Cook the Burgers to Perfection
Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat—the oil’s neutral flavor and high smoke point make it ideal for getting a nice crust without overpowering the burger’s taste. Cook the patties for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches between 155° and 160°F. Once cooked, transfer the burgers to a plate and tent them loosely with foil for 5 minutes. This resting period helps the temperature even out to 165°F and locks in all those succulent juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Tzatziki Arugula Slaw
In a medium bowl, toss the arugula with two tablespoons of tzatziki, crumbled feta, and a light sprinkle of salt until every leaf is coated. This slaw adds a peppery crunch and creamy tang that pairs perfectly with the warm turkey patties, creating layers of texture and flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
To build your masterpiece, start by spreading a layer of hummus on the bottom half of each toasted bun—this optional step amps up the richness and adds a subtle earthiness. Then, add the turkey patty followed by a generous spoonful of the arugula slaw. Top with fresh tomato and red onion slices for brightness and crunch. Finish with the top bun and get ready to indulge.
How to Serve Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra crumbled feta, a few fresh oregano leaves, or a drizzle of extra tzatziki sauce brightens these burgers beautifully. These garnishes add visual appeal and bursts of flavor that make the eating experience even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
Serve these Greek Turkey Burgers alongside some crispy homemade sweet potato fries, a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad, or even a warm lemony couscous. These sides complement the Mediterranean flavors without overwhelming them, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these patties wrapped in warm pita bread with extra tzatziki mixed in for dipping, or deconstruct the burger into a hearty salad bowl featuring the patty crumbled over greens and topped with all the classic flavors. Either way, the Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe lends itself to versatile, crowd-pleasing presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Greek Turkey Burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tzatziki and fresh toppings separate until serving to ensure they stay crisp and fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by separating them with parchment paper and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Cooked burgers can also freeze well but may lose some of their fresh texture, so freezing raw is preferable.
Reheating
Reheat cooked burgers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain juiciness, or warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat. Re-add fresh toppings and tzatziki after reheating for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative to turkey and will work well with the feta, spinach, and tzatziki. Just make sure to cook it to the proper internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
Is it necessary to thaw and drain the spinach before mixing?
Yes, thawing and draining the spinach removes excess moisture. This step prevents the patties from becoming soggy and ensures the proper texture in the Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Of course! Simply swap the hamburger buns for gluten-free buns or serve the patties wrapped in lettuce or pita bread made with gluten-free flour for a delicious gluten-free meal option.
How long do the cooked burgers stay fresh in the fridge?
Cooked Greek Turkey Burgers will keep well refrigerated for 3 to 4 days in a sealed container. For the freshest taste, consume them within this timeframe and add fresh toppings just before eating.
What can I substitute if I don’t have tzatziki sauce?
If you’re out of tzatziki, a mixture of Greek yogurt with minced cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill can make a great homemade substitute and keep the spirit of the recipe intact.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give these Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe a go—they’re a delicious way to bring the flavors of Greece right into your kitchen. Perfectly balanced, fresh, and packed with personality, this burger is bound to become a new family favorite whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight or entertaining friends. Enjoy every flavorful bite and happy cooking!
Print
Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Spinach, and Tzatziki Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta and Spinach are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic burgers. Combining lean ground turkey with tangy feta cheese, fresh spinach, and traditional Greek seasonings, these juicy patties are pan-seared to perfection. Served on toasted buns with a refreshing tzatziki and arugula slaw, plus optional tomato and red onion slices, they make for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Burgers
- 1 pound ground turkey
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup packed spinach (previously frozen, fully thawed and drained)
- 2 tablespoons tzatziki sauce
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely diced)
- 2 teaspoons Greek seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
For the Slaw and Assembly
- 2 cups arugula
- 2 tablespoons tzatziki sauce
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
- Hummus (optional)
- Tomato slices (optional)
- Red onion slices (optional)
Instructions
- Make the patties: In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, crumbled feta, thawed and drained spinach, tzatziki sauce, minced garlic, finely diced red onion, Greek seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty approximately 4½ to 5 inches wide and 1 inch thick.
- Cook the burgers: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the turkey patties in the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches between 155°F and 160°F. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and tent them loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes so the temperature rises to a safe 165°F and the juices redistribute.
- Make the arugula slaw: While the burgers are resting, prepare the slaw by combining arugula, tzatziki sauce, crumbled feta cheese, and salt in a medium bowl. Toss gently until the arugula is well coated and flavors meld.
- Build the burgers: Toast the hamburger buns. Spread hummus on the bottom half of each bun for extra creaminess and flavor. Layer a turkey patty on top, followed by a generous amount of the tzatziki arugula slaw. Add optional tomato and red onion slices if desired, then finish with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Greek turkey burgers.
Notes
- The turkey burgers can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator; cook them fresh for best flavor.
- Ensure turkey is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Frozen spinach must be fully thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the patties.
- If Greek seasoning is unavailable, use a mix of oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.
- Avocado oil is chosen for its high smoke point and mild flavor; olive oil can be substituted if preferred.
- To make the burgers gluten-free, use gluten-free hamburger buns or serve in lettuce wraps.
- Optional toppings like hummus, tomato, and red onion add layers of flavor but can be omitted based on preference.
