Mediterranean Turkey Burger Delight

This Greek-inspired turkey burger offers a lighter spin on the classic favorite, combining lean turkey with Mediterranean herbs and a cooling tzatziki sauce. The result is a flavorful, protein-packed meal that satisfies without weighing you down.

I first created these burgers when trying to incorporate more lean protein into our family meals. What started as a healthy alternative quickly became our most requested summer dinner, especially when we're craving something satisfying but not too heavy.

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: 93% lean provides the perfect balance of flavor and texture while keeping these burgers lighter than beef versions
• Red onion: Adds a pleasant bite and beautiful color to both the patties and as a topping
• Fresh herbs: Parsley and dill bring bright Mediterranean flavor that transforms ordinary turkey
• Dried oregano and cumin: Create authentic Greek flavor notes that elevate the entire burger
• Greek yogurt: Forms the creamy base for the tzatziki making the sauce both tangy and protein rich
• Cucumber: For the tzatziki must be grated and well drained to prevent a watery sauce
• Whole wheat buns: Offer a nutty flavor and extra fiber but brioche adds decadent richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the tzatziki sauce:

Combine Greek yogurt, grated and thoroughly drained cucumber, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir until completely incorporated, making sure the cucumber is evenly distributed throughout. Refrigerate while preparing the burgers to allow flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Mix and form the turkey patties:

Place ground turkey in a large bowl and add finely chopped red onion, fresh parsley, dill, minced garlic, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands to gently mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat which can make the burgers tough. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink during cooking.

Cook to perfection:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the formed patties in the hot pan without overcrowding. Cook for a full 4 to 5 minutes without disturbing to develop a golden crust, then flip carefully with a spatula. Cook an additional 4 to 5 minutes on the second side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.

Prepare the buns:

While the patties cook, lightly toast your burger buns either in a separate dry skillet over medium heat, under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, or in a toaster. Watch carefully as they can burn quickly. The toasting adds texture and prevents the buns from becoming soggy from the tzatziki.

Assemble your masterpiece:

Spread a generous layer of tzatziki on both the top and bottom bun halves. On the bottom bun, arrange a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach, then place the hot turkey patty on top. Layer with sliced tomato, thin red onion rings, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta if desired. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately.

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The secret to these burgers truly lies in the fresh herbs. I learned from my Greek neighbor that the combination of dill and parsley creates that authentic Mediterranean flavor profile that makes these burgers special. My family now grows both herbs in our garden specifically for this recipe during summer months.

Mastering the Perfect Tzatziki

The key to exceptional tzatziki lies in properly preparing the cucumber. After grating, place it in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. This prevents your sauce from becoming watery and diluted. For an even more authentic flavor, try using full-fat Greek yogurt which creates a richer, more luxurious texture that stands up beautifully to the warm burger patties. Allow your tzatziki to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving if possible this allows the garlic to mellow and the flavors to fully develop.

Make-Ahead Options

These Greek turkey burgers fit perfectly into busy schedules with several make-ahead possibilities. The patties can be formed up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. For longer storage, wrap individual raw patties in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag where they will keep for up to three months. The tzatziki sauce actually improves with time and can be made up to three days ahead, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving as some separation may occur.

Serving Suggestions

Create a complete Mediterranean feast by serving these burgers alongside a Greek salad with crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta dressed with olive oil and red wine vinegar. For a lighter option, wrap the patties and toppings in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves instead of buns. These burgers also pair beautifully with roasted lemon potatoes or a simple orzo pasta salad tossed with olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs to continue the Greek theme. For an impressive spread, offer additional toppings like roasted red peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, or olive tapenade.

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Common Questions

→ How do I prevent turkey burgers from becoming dry?

To keep turkey burgers juicy, use 93% lean ground turkey rather than 99% lean, handle the meat gently when mixing and forming patties, don't overcook them (165°F internal temperature is perfect), and add moisture-retaining ingredients like the finely chopped onions and olive oil in this recipe. The tzatziki sauce also helps add moisture when serving.

→ Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can form the patties up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. The tzatziki sauce actually improves in flavor when made a day ahead. For best results, cook the patties just before serving.

→ How do I properly drain cucumber for tzatziki?

After grating the cucumber, place it in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and squeeze firmly to remove excess moisture. This prevents watery tzatziki and ensures a thick, creamy texture. For best results, let the grated cucumber sit with a sprinkle of salt for 10 minutes before squeezing.

→ Can I grill these turkey burgers instead of cooking in a skillet?

Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the patties for approximately 4-5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the Mediterranean seasonings.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with Greek turkey burgers?

These burgers pair beautifully with Greek-inspired sides like a simple Greek salad, lemon-herb roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a light orzo pasta salad. For a lighter meal, serve with a side of tzatziki and raw vegetables for dipping.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make these burgers gluten-free, simply serve them on gluten-free buns or wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of traditional buns. The patties and tzatziki sauce are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific ingredients' labels to confirm.