Flavorful Greek Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki & Feta: Your Ultimate Summer Meal
As the sunny days of summer unfold, the desire for effortless yet exceptionally flavorful meals becomes paramount. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a laid-back family dinner, or simply craving something light and delicious, these Greek Turkey Burgers are designed to be your new go-to. Infused with the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean and crowned with cool, creamy tzatziki and salty feta, they offer a delightful twist on classic burger night.
Summer is a season for relaxed schedules, outdoor adventures, and enjoying quality time with loved ones. After a busy school year, my son is certainly appreciating the slower pace, with golf lessons, swimming, and plenty of playtime. Next week brings the excitement of science camp, a tradition he eagerly anticipates each year. This change of pace often calls for meals that are quick to prepare but still pack a punch in terms of flavor and satisfaction. That’s where these Greek Turkey Burgers truly shine, bringing a taste of Greece to your dinner table with minimal fuss.
This post is proudly sponsored by Gourmet Garden, whose fresh herbs make crafting these flavorful burgers incredibly simple. All thoughts and opinions expressed here are 100% my own.
Why Choose Greek Turkey Burgers for Your Next Cookout?
Burgers are a quintessential summer dinner, a reliable choice when you want something satisfying without much effort. While traditional beef burgers are always a hit, switching things up keeps mealtime exciting. Turkey burgers offer a leaner alternative, making them a fantastic option for a lighter, healthier meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Their mild flavor makes them incredibly versatile, allowing them to absorb a wide array of seasonings and toppings.
For me, a soft spot for Greek cuisine means incorporating those bright, herbaceous flavors whenever possible. These Greek Turkey Burgers are a testament to that love, blending classic Greek seasonings directly into the turkey mixture. The result is a juicy, aromatic patty that’s a world away from your everyday burger. Topped with a refreshing homemade tzatziki sauce and crumbled feta cheese, it’s a complete Mediterranean experience in every bite. It’s an easy way to satisfy your Greek food cravings on even the busiest weeknights, proving that healthy eating can also be incredibly delicious and convenient.
The Secret to Unforgettable Flavor: Key Ingredients & Expert Tips
The beauty of these Greek Turkey Burgers lies in their simplicity and the powerful flavor they deliver. With just a few key seasonings, you can transform ground turkey into a Mediterranean masterpiece. I rely on Gourmet Garden Herbs to infuse the burgers with incredible flavor effortlessly. Their conveniently packaged minced garlic and dried oregano paste are staples in my kitchen, ensuring fresh, vibrant taste without the chopping or mess. A generous amount of garlic and aromatic oregano are blended right into the turkey mixture, creating a deeply savory base.
Crafting the Perfect Patty
- Ground Turkey: Opt for 93% lean ground turkey for the best balance of moisture and leanness.
- Zucchini: Grated and thoroughly drained zucchini is a secret ingredient! It adds moisture to the lean turkey, preventing the burgers from drying out, and also subtly enhances the texture without overpowering the Greek flavors.
- Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion provides a mild sweetness and a slight crunch within the patty, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
- Garlic & Oregano: These are the stars of the show, bringing that distinctive Greek aroma and taste. Gourmet Garden’s products make this step quick and easy.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors into harmony.
Combine all these ingredients in a large bowl, mixing gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, so handle with care. Form the mixture into four equally sized patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps prevent the burgers from bulging in the middle during grilling, ensuring they cook evenly.
Whipping Up the Perfect Homemade Tzatziki Sauce
No Greek burger is complete without a generous dollop of cool, creamy tzatziki sauce. This fresh condiment is the perfect counterpoint to the savory burger, adding a tangy, refreshing element that ties the whole dish together. It’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch, and the homemade version is far superior to store-bought.
Tzatziki Components: Yogurt, Cucumber, Dill, Lemon, Garlic
- Plain Greek Yogurt: The foundation of tzatziki, providing a rich, creamy texture and a pleasant tang. Full-fat or 2% yogurt works best for creaminess.
- Cucumber: Shredded and thoroughly drained cucumber is crucial. Squeeze out as much excess water as possible to prevent a watery sauce. This adds freshness and a crisp bite.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
- Minced Garlic: Garlic is key to authentic tzatziki flavor. Again, Gourmet Garden’s minced garlic paste makes this step incredibly convenient.
- Fresh Dill: The distinctive aroma and taste of fresh dill are essential for tzatziki. If you don’t have fresh, a smaller amount of dried dill can be used, but fresh is highly recommended for the best flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances the flavors.
Simply stir together the Greek yogurt, thoroughly drained shredded cucumber, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Allow the sauce to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld. You can even prepare the tzatziki several hours or a day in advance, making it an excellent meal-prep component.
Mastering the Grill: Juicy Turkey Burgers Every Time
Grilling is the preferred method for these Greek Turkey Burgers, imparting a smoky flavor and beautiful char. However, if a grill isn’t available, pan-frying or oven-baking are also great alternatives.
Grilling Instructions:
- Preheat: Begin by preheating your grill to high heat. A hot grill ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Prep Patties: Once your patties are formed, ensure they are lightly oiled to prevent sticking to the grates.
- Grill Time: Place the patties on the hot grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Turkey is lean, so be careful not to overcook, which can lead to dry burgers.
- Toasted Buns: For an extra touch, place your hamburger buns on the grill during the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. This gives them a slight toast and warmth, enhancing the overall burger experience.
The combination of these perfectly seasoned turkey patties, the cooling tzatziki, and the savory feta creates a truly memorable meal. We loved these so much, they’re already on the menu for this weekend!
Greek Turkey Burgers
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Ingredients
Turkey Burgers
- 1 to 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey
- 3/4 cup zucchini, grated and drained
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 Tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Tzatziki Sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup cucumber, shredded and drained
- 1 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh dill
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- 4 hamburger buns
- Feta cheese
Instructions
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Preheat grill to high heat.
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To prepare the burgers, combine ground turkey, grated and drained zucchini, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 4 even sized patties, making a small indentation in the center of each.
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Grill patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. If desired, place buns on the grill during the last 2 minutes of cooking to toast them lightly.
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Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a separate bowl, stir together the plain Greek yogurt, shredded and drained cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, and salt. Mix well and set aside until ready to serve.
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To serve, place a cooked turkey burger on each toasted bun, top generously with homemade tzatziki sauce, and sprinkle with crumbled Feta cheese. Enjoy immediately!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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Beyond the Bun: Creative Serving Ideas & Side Dishes
While a classic hamburger bun is delicious, these Greek Turkey Burgers are versatile enough to be served in many exciting ways. For a lighter, low-carb option, skip the bun and serve the patty in large lettuce cups or wrapped in fresh, crisp romaine lettuce leaves. Warm pita bread or a fluffy naan can also make an excellent vehicle for these flavorful burgers, especially when paired with extra tzatziki and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Additional Topping Ideas:
- Kalamata Olives: Sliced or chopped, they add a briny, savory punch.
- Fresh Tomatoes & Cucumbers: Diced or sliced, they bring more freshness and crunch.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet and smoky, they complement the Greek flavors beautifully.
- Red Onion Slices: Thinly sliced raw red onion can add a sharp, pungent kick for those who love it.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint can elevate the flavors even further.
Perfect Side Dishes:
- Greek Salad: A simple, vibrant salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and feta, dressed with olive oil and lemon.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini roasted with olive oil and herbs make a healthy and delicious accompaniment.
- Lemon Rice: A light and zesty rice pilaf cooked with lemon juice and zest.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A slightly sweet and savory contrast to the main dish.
- Hummus and Pita: For a complete Mediterranean feast, serve with a side of creamy hummus and warm pita bread for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Turkey Burgers
Can I make these Greek Turkey Burgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey burger patties a day in advance. Form them, then cover and refrigerate until ready to grill. The tzatziki sauce can also be made a day or two ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. This makes them an ideal choice for meal prepping during busy weeks.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I still make them?
Yes, definitely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can pan-fry the burgers in a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How can I make these spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the turkey burger mixture. You could also mix a dash of hot sauce into your tzatziki for a spicy kick, or even finely mince a jalapeño and add it to the burger mixture for an extra layer of flavor and heat.
No matter how you choose to prepare and serve them, these Greek Turkey Burgers are sure to become a cherished recipe in your summer rotation. They perfectly balance health, convenience, and incredible flavor, embodying the spirit of relaxed, delicious dining.
Want more summer grilling dinner ideas?
Other Grilling ideas you might like:
Fantastic Chicken Burgers by Sugarplum’s Kitchen
Grilled Turkey Burgers from Simply Scratch
Dijon Grilled Chicken from Plain Chicken
**This post is sponsored by Gourmet Garden. I was compensated for my time to create this recipe. All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own. Thank you for supporting the brands I love, and that make Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts possible.