Greek Turkey Burgers

These Greek turkey burgers are insanely easy to make and super delicious. I grew up eating cheeseburgers and french fries at my dad’s diner ALL THE TIME. Its still one of my top three favorite American meals. And now, I always turn to burgers in the summer grilling season especially. However, you can also pan sear these burgers too if you don’t have a backyard BBQ.

These juicy burgers are packed with feta, spinach, onion and seasonings. If you’re doing the low carb thing, sub in almond flour for the breadcrumbs. And as always, do not skip the tzatziki, traditional or lazy, its a must for this recipe! Make that first and store in the fridge while you cook everything else. This will ensure the optimal flavors of the sauce coming together.

• Makes: 6 burgers

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey 

• 1 (3.5- or 4-ounce) block feta, crumbled (about 1 cup)

• ¼ cup finely minced red onion, or 2 scallions, green and white parts, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, preferably Kewpie

• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 cups (packed) baby spinach, coarsely chopped

• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs

• Freshly ground black pepper

• Olive oil

Suggested toppings for serving

• Toasted brioche buns

• Lazy Tzatziki or Traditional Tzatziki

• Sliced ripe tomato

• Thinly sliced red onion

• Crunchy lettuce

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, use your hands to combine the turkey, feta, onion, mayonnaise, salt, oregano, and pepper to taste. Add the spinach and panko, and mix again just until combined.

2. Shape into 6 patties. Arrange them on a lightly greased baking sheet and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for up to a few hours. 

3. To grill the burgers: Brush or spray them lightly on both sides with olive oil. Prepare a grill for medium-high heat with space to cook over direct heat. Once it’s ready, add the burgers. Cook them for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, until grill marks appear and the burgers are cooked through. An instant read thermometer should reach 165ºF in the center. 

4. To pan-sear the burgers: Set a nonstick skillet over medium heat, and once it’s hot, add enough olive oil to lightly cover the base of the pan. Add the patties in a single layer (you might have to cook them in two batches), and cook for 4 to 6 minutes per side, until browned all over and cooked through. An instant read thermometer should reach 165ºF in the center.

5. Serve with your favorite toppings and condiments!

Notes & Easy Swaps

• For the turkey: Ground chicken or beef both work great.  

• For the panko: Substitute almond flour or 3 tablespoons fine breadcrumbs.

• For a low-carb alternative: Serve these burgers over a leafy salad, or swap the bun for crunchy lettuce cups for a low-carb option.