Looking for a new way to use ground turkey that doesn’t feel like just another boring dinner? These Greek-style turkey burgers with feta and tzatziki are a flavor-packed twist on traditional grilled turkey burger recipes. They’re juicy, herby, tangy, and make for an incredibly satisfying meal whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner. I came up with this when I wanted something lighter than a beef burger, but not bland—and let me tell you, this hits the sweet spot between healthy and indulgent.
It’s the kind of meal where every bite has something interesting: salty feta, cool cucumber tzatziki, fresh herbs, and perfectly seasoned turkey. If you're exploring juicy turkey burger recipes or searching for the best turkey burger recipe homemade, this one will absolutely win you over. It also works great as a weeknight go-to when you’re short on time but want something that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It fits neatly into the world of ground turkey recipes for dinner that are easy, hearty, and never boring.
Greek-Style Turkey Burgers with Feta and Tzatziki
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 12 minutes mins
Total Time 32 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Greek
Servings 4 hearty burgers
Mixing bowls At least two: one for the turkey mixture and another for the tzatziki.
Grill or grill pan For authentic char, but a stovetop skillet works well too.
Spatula A wide metal one is ideal for flipping patties without breaking them.
Box grater For the cucumber in tzatziki.
Measuring Spoons To get the seasonings just right.
Paper towels To blot the cucumber and prevent watery sauce.
For the turkey patties
- 1 ½ lbs ground turkey preferably 93% lean for juiciness
- ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for added moisture
For the tzatziki sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt full fat for best texture
- ½ cup grated cucumber squeezed to remove excess moisture
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped dill fresh is best
- Salt and pepper to taste
For assembling the burgers
- 4 brioche or whole wheat burger buns
- Sliced red onion
- Sliced tomato
- Baby spinach or arugula
- Additional crumbled feta optional
Step 1: Prepare the tzatziki sauce.
Grate the cucumber and squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a paper towel or cheesecloth. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Chill it in the fridge to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 2: Make the turkey mixture.
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, feta, red onion, parsley, mint, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and olive oil. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined—overmixing leads to tough burgers. This combo delivers one of the most flavorful and juicy turkey burgers you'll ever try.
Step 3: Shape the patties.
Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties (or make eight if you're doing turkey burger sliders). Chill them for 10–15 minutes to help them firm up before cooking.
Step 4: Grill or cook the patties.
Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface. Grill the burgers for about 5–6 minutes per side until nicely browned and the internal temperature hits 165°F. For fans of turkey smash burgers, press down slightly on the patties for crispy edges.
Step 5: Toast the buns.
Place your buns cut-side down on the grill or skillet until they’re just golden and crisp. This adds texture and helps support the greens and sauce without the bun getting soggy.
Step 6: Build your burger.
Start by placing a layer of spinach or arugula on the bottom bun, then spoon on a generous layer of tzatziki. Add the turkey patty, followed by tomato slices, red onion, and more crumbled feta if you’d like. Finish with the top bun, spread with extra tzatziki for good measure.
Pairings That Make It a Full Mediterranean-Inspired Meal
These burgers don’t need much to shine, but pairing them with the right sides and drinks will make you feel like you’re dining seaside in Greece.
- Salads: Try a chopped Greek salad with olives, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette. A lemony tabbouleh or couscous salad works too.
- Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, grilled eggplant slices, or blistered cherry tomatoes make light but flavorful companions.
- Finger Foods: Serve up hummus, baba ganoush, or dolmas (stuffed grape leaves) for an appetizer-style side.
- Drinks: A cold glass of rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a citrusy wheat beer pairs nicely. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or mint tea hits the spot.
And if you're planning a cookout, why not serve a variety of turkey burger meals by including some buffalo turkey burgers or a platter of different turkey burger toppings like pickled red onions, roasted red peppers, and garlic aioli? It’s a simple way to impress with minimal effort.
FAQs – Quick & Handy
1. What type of turkey should I use?
Go with 93% lean ground turkey. It keeps things juicy without being greasy.
2. Can I make these egg-free?
Yes! These patties bind beautifully with feta and herbs—no egg needed.
3. Do they freeze well?
Absolutely. Freeze raw patties flat, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen with a few extra minutes.
4. Are they good as sliders?
Totally. Shape smaller patties and reduce cooking time. Great for parties or picky eaters.
