Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Lemon, and Tzatziki Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Lemon, and Tzatziki Recipe because it brings together so many vibrant flavors I adore. The juicy ground turkey mixed with zesty lemon, aromatic oregano, and creamy feta cheese creates a mouthwatering burger that’s surprisingly light yet indulgent. Every time I make these, I am amazed at how the fresh cucumber and red onion paired with cool, tangy tzatziki turn a simple burger into a festive meal that feels like a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Lemon, and Tzatziki Recipe

What I cherish most about this recipe is the incredible flavor profile it delivers without any fuss. The lemon zest adds a bright, lively note that perfectly balances the richness of the feta and the savoriness of the turkey. Plus, the garlic and oregano ground everything into a harmonious, unmistakably Mediterranean taste. Every bite reminds me of sunny afternoons in Greece, but right from my own kitchen.

Another reason I’m always excited to make these burgers is how easy and straightforward the preparation is. The ingredient list is simple, yet each component plays a vital role in building the flavors and textures that make the burgers special. Whether I’m cooking on the grill for a summer cookout or frying them up for a weeknight dinner, these patties cook relatively fast and always turn out tender and juicy. They’re perfect for when I want something elevated but without complicated steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started, you’ll want just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that make a big difference in flavor and texture. Each one has its own part to play, from the bright lemon zest to the creamy feta crumbles that melt slightly into the turkey, enhancing every bite.

• 1 lb ground turkey: The lean protein base that keeps the burgers juicy but light.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from ½ lemon): Adds fresh citrus brightness to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: Brings authentic Mediterranean herbal depth.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a flavorful punch without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds subtle umami complexity to the meat.
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Introducing a creamy, salty component that melts into the turkey.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the patties while keeping them tender.
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Provides structure, so the burgers hold together nicely.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking, bringing a lovely richness and preventing sticking.
• 4 burger buns: Your vessel for assembling these delicious creations.
• ½ cup tzatziki: The refreshing, creamy topping that ties everything together.
• ½ long English cucumber (sliced): Adds a crisp, cool texture and makes the burger feel fresh.
• ½ red onion (thinly sliced): Offers a zesty crunch and slight sweetness.

Directions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, lemon zest, oregano, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, crumbled feta cheese, salt, egg, and breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the texture tender.

Step 2: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Take one portion and gently form it into a patty about 3 to 4 inches in diameter and no thicker than 1 inch. Repeat for the remaining portions, ensuring the patties are evenly sized for even cooking.

Step 3 (Pan-Frying): Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch frying pan over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the turkey patties in the pan and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature; the burgers should reach 165°F to be fully cooked. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.

Step 3 (Grilling): Preheat your grill to 450°F and oil the grates well to prevent sticking. Place the patties carefully on the grill. Cook for 4 minutes on each side, turning gently as turkey patties can be delicate. Confirm the internal temperature hits 155°F, then remove from the grill and let rest covered for 5 minutes. The carryover heat will bring the temperature to a safe 165°F.

Step 4: To serve, pile the patties onto your favorite burger buns and top each with a generous spoonful of creamy tzatziki, crisp cucumber slices, and thinly sliced red onion. Enjoy immediately while warm and fresh.

Servings and Timing

This Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Lemon, and Tzatziki Recipe makes 4 hearty servings, perfect for a small family dinner or casual gathering with friends. The prep time is about 15 minutes, mostly mixing and forming patties, while cooking takes roughly another 15 minutes depending on your method. All told, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes total to get these delicious burgers from kitchen to table, with an optional 5-minute resting period after cooking to lock in juiciness.

How to Serve This Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Lemon, and Tzatziki Recipe

When it comes to serving these burgers, I love going all out with fresh, vibrant sides that emphasize the Greek flavors. A side of crispy baked sweet potato fries or a light Greek salad with tomatoes, olives, and red onions complements them beautifully. For something warmer, a serving of lemon herb roasted potatoes is a fantastic choice that echoes the lemon in the patties.

I always make sure to pile on the toppings—tzatziki is essential for balancing the flavors with its cool creaminess. Adding extra cucumber slices and red onions adds crunch and freshness, making the whole bite sing. For presentation, I like to arrange the burgers stacked neatly on toasted buns with a sprinkle of fresh oregano or parsley on top for a pop of color.

For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Greek Assyrtiko pairs well, but I also enjoy a refreshing cucumber mint lemonade or a sparkling water with a lemon wedge. These options keep the meal bright and inviting. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight or a special weekend gathering, I always serve these burgers warm and fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Variations

I’ve experimented with different twists on this Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Lemon, and Tzatziki Recipe over time, and it’s a great base for customization. For instance, swapping ground turkey with ground chicken or even lamb gives a richer flavor if you want something more robust. If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese works wonderfully too, with its tangy creaminess.

If you’re gluten-free, I recommend using gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for that binding texture without compromising on flavor. For a vegan version, try a chickpea or lentil patty with vegan feta and a dairy-free tzatziki made from coconut yogurt—though the texture will differ, the Mediterranean vibes remain delightful.

In terms of cooking methods, besides pan-frying or grilling, I’ve also baked these patties in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. It’s a convenient hands-off option that still produces juicy results. You can even cook them on a stovetop griddle for a nice crust if you want to mix things up.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, I store the cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator immediately after they cool to room temperature. I find they stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Keeping the toppings separate, especially the tzatziki, helps maintain the patties’ texture.

Freezing

These burgers freeze really well if you want to prepare them ahead of time. I recommend freezing the uncooked patties arranged on a parchment-lined baking sheet first, then transferring them into a freezer-safe bag or container once solid. They’ll keep well frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking as directed to ensure even cooking and juicy texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these Greek turkey burgers is gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through to preserve their moisture. Alternatively, reheating wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes works well. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture from getting rubbery. Adding a fresh spoonful of tzatziki after reheating really brightens everything up.

FAQs

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes weeknight dinners stress-free and saves you time on the day you want to enjoy them.

What type of ground turkey should I use?

I prefer using ground turkey that has a bit of fat content—about 93% lean works great—because it helps keep the burgers juicy. Very lean turkey tends to dry out quickly during cooking.

Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?

While Worcestershire sauce adds a lovely umami boost, you can leave it out or substitute with soy sauce or tamari for a similar depth of flavor, especially if you are avoiding certain ingredients due to dietary preferences.

Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?

Yes! While feta gives that classic tangy and salty kick, goat cheese or even sharp cheddar can be interesting alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift slightly, but it can still be delicious.

What’s the best way to check if the burgers are cooked safely?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way. For turkey, you want to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to be safe to eat. This guarantees the burgers are cooked through but still juicy.

Conclusion

I can’t recommend this Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta, Lemon, and Tzatziki Recipe enough for anyone looking to bring fresh, exciting flavors to the dinner table without hours of prep. It’s my go-to when I want something flavorful yet light and satisfying, and it always impresses guests and family alike. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of the Mediterranean right at home!

Print