If you’re ready for a burger that’s vibrant, juicy, and absolutely packed with Mediterranean flair, the Greek Turkey Burger is your new best friend. Imagine layers of flavor from fresh herbs, tangy feta, and succulent ground turkey, all hugged by a golden-brown bun and topped with crisp veggies. With every bite, you get a taste of Greece on your plate—perfect for family dinners, summer BBQs, or a healthier spin on classic comfort food. Whether you’re a loyal burger fan or just craving something fresh, this is the meal you’ll find yourself making again and again.

Greek Turkey Burger Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity is the star of this Greek Turkey Burger recipe—each ingredient is thoughtfully selected to build irresistible flavor and juicy texture. These pantry staples and fresh favorites work their magic to create a burger so wholesome, colorful, and satisfying that you won’t miss the beef.

Ground Turkey: Lean and tender, turkey soaks up the Mediterranean seasoning for a lighter, juicy patty.
Crumbled Feta Cheese: Adds bursts of tangy, creamy goodness, binding the burger and giving it classic Greek appeal.
Fresh Dill: Infuses the patty with a signature herbaceous note that instantly transports you to the Aegean.
Fresh Parsley: Bright, grassy, and refreshing, parsley balances the richness of the turkey and feta.
Red Onion: Finely chopped for sweet and sharp flavor woven right into the burger.
Garlic: Just a clove or two minced for depth and Mediterranean warmth.
Lemon Zest: Offers zippy brightness to wake up all the flavors in the patty.
Breadcrumbs: Essential for holding everything together and keeping your burger juicy.
Egg: Acts as a binder, making the patties more cohesive and tender.
Salt and Black Pepper: A simple duo that lifts every other flavor to its peak.
Olive Oil: For brushing or drizzling, ensuring a golden, beautifully seared Greek Turkey Burger.
Burger Buns: Opt for whole wheat or brioche for extra flavor and structure.
Toppings (tomato, cucumber, lettuce): Crisp and juicy, these add color, crunch, and freshness to each bite.
Tzatziki Sauce: The creamy, garlicky finishing touch that takes your burger from tasty to unforgettable.

How to Make Greek Turkey Burger

Step 1: Mix Your Greek Turkey Burger Patties

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and toss in the ground turkey, crumbled feta cheese, fresh dill, parsley, chopped red onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Gently combine until everything is just mixed—you want to keep things tender, so don’t overwork your mixture! The aroma from the herbs and lemon will already give you a preview of the Greek-inspired goodness ahead.

Step 2: Shape and Chill the Patties

With damp hands (this keeps things from sticking), shape the mixture into burger rounds, about 1/2-inch thick. Set them on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and pop them in the fridge for at least 20 minutes. This easy step helps the Greek Turkey Burger patties hold together beautifully when cooking and lets the flavors mingle.

Step 3: Sear or Grill to Perfection

Heat up a skillet with a thin slick of olive oil, or fire up your grill on medium-high. Once hot, place the patties down and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through. Avoid pressing down—let them sizzle undisturbed so they stay ultra-juicy! (A meat thermometer should read 165°F in the center.)

Step 4: Toast Your Buns

While the burgers rest for just a couple minutes, quickly toast your burger buns cut side down in the same pan or on the grill. That little bit of crunch will make every bite of your Greek Turkey Burger extra special.

Step 5: Assemble and Top Off

Layer the bottom half of each bun with a generous swipe of creamy tzatziki sauce, then add your burger patty, followed by slices of ripe tomato, cucumber ribbons, and crisp lettuce. Add another spoonful of tzatziki on top, finish with the top bun, and admire your Mediterranean masterpiece before diving in!

How to Serve Greek Turkey Burger

Garnishes

Take your Greek Turkey Burger over the top with a shower of more fresh herbs—dill or mint is lovely—a pinch of crumbled feta, or even a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Sometimes I like to tuck a few thinly sliced red onions or sprinkle a little sumac for a burst of tart color on top. Presentation here is just as fun as the taste.

Side Dishes

The best partners for a Greek Turkey Burger are equally refreshing and light. Serve your burger with a pile of lemony roasted potatoes, classic Greek salad brimming with olives and tomatoes, or a simple bowl of orzo tossed with olive oil and herbs. If you’re in the mood for something funky, baked sweet potato fries or pita chips never disappoint.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or just craving something different, turn your burger into sliders for an irresistible party platter. Or, ditch the bun and serve your Greek Turkey Burger over a Mediterranean grain bowl—imagine juicy burgers, quinoa, roasted veggies, and crunchy chickpeas with lots of tzatziki! You could even wrap the patty in lettuce leaves or warm pita for a wrap-style twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Greek Turkey Burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to store the burgers separately from the toppings and buns so everything stays nice and fresh. Tzatziki is best used within a few days as well.

Freezing

Your cooked Greek Turkey Burger patties freeze beautifully! Once cooled, wrap each patty tightly with plastic wrap and stash them in a zip-top freezer bag (don’t forget to label). They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—perfect for speedy lunches or dinners down the road.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your burger patties in a hot skillet with a splash of olive oil or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. The microwave will work in a pinch, but a quick pan-sear restores the exterior’s savory crust and revives those delicious flavors.

FAQs

Can I make the Greek Turkey Burger mixture in advance?

Absolutely! Prepping the burger mixture a day ahead lets the flavors develop even more. Just keep the mixture covered in the fridge until you’re ready to shape and cook your patties.

What’s the secret to a juicy Greek Turkey Burger?

The trick is not to overmix the meat, and to chill your formed patties before cooking. Plus, don’t press down on the burgers as they cook—this preserves all the moisture inside.

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

Definitely! Swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal, and use gluten-free buns or even lettuce wraps if you prefer to skip bread altogether.

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works great here for a similar flavor profile. Just keep an eye on cooking time, and make sure your patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What toppings work besides tzatziki?

If tzatziki isn’t your thing, try a dollop of hummus, mashed avocado, or even a spicy harissa yogurt to keep the Mediterranean vibe fresh and exciting.

Final Thoughts

Trust me: once you try this Greek Turkey Burger, you’ll wonder how your dinner rotation ever got by without it! Packed with bold flavors and so versatile, this recipe is a delightful detour from the everyday burger. Give it a go—your tastebuds (and everyone at your table) will be seriously impressed.

Greek Turkey Burger Recipe