If you’ve ever wanted a burger that bursts with Mediterranean flavors and stays tender and flavorful in every bite, you’re about to meet your new favorite. This Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe combines lean ground turkey with the tang of feta, the sweet charm of roasted red peppers, and a vibrant mix of herbs that bring a fresh, irresistible character to your plate. These patties are a perfect balance of juicy, savory, and bright, making them ideal whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking up a quick weeknight dinner. Get ready for a Greek-inspired delight that’s as delicious as it is easy to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s building the perfect juicy texture, adding layers of flavor, or bringing pops of color that make these burgers as pretty as they are tasty.
- 1 pound ground turkey (at least 90% lean): The lean but juicy protein base for your patties.
- ½ cup finely chopped jarred roasted red pepper: Adds sweetness and moisture, so your burgers never dry out.
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese: The hallmark tangy, salty flavor that screams Greek inspiration.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced) or ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A punch of aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Earthy and herbaceous, a must for that classic Greek vibe.
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion: Offers a crisp sharpness balancing the creaminess of feta.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried): Bright and fresh herbal notes to lighten the mixture.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (optional): Adds a subtle grassy undertone for extra complexity.
- ¼ cup finely chopped jarred pepperoncini peppers (optional): A little zing and mild heat for adventurous eaters.
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning for warmth and depth.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste): Enhances all the flavors and helps bind the patties.
- Whole-grain mini pita breads (split): Perfect little vessels for your juicy burgers.
- Tzatziki Sauce (optional): A cool, creamy finishing touch that’s pure Mediterranean magic.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
The heart of this Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe is in the blend. In a large bowl, combine your ground turkey, chopped roasted red pepper, crumbled feta, garlic, oregano, red onion, parsley, and if you’re feeling adventurous, dill and pepperoncini peppers. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Using clean hands or a rubber spatula, fold everything together thoroughly but gently — you want the ingredients incorporated without overworking the meat, preserving a tender texture.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide your mixture into four equal portions and flatten each gently into a large patty. Place them on a nonstick surface like parchment paper to keep them intact and easy to transfer later. Before cooking, sprinkle kosher salt on the top sides to season properly. If you’re grilling, mist both the patties and the grill grates with oil spray; this prevents sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and caramelization.
Step 3: Cook With Care
Heat a sauté pan or grill pan over medium-high heat, coating it lightly with oil spray. Place your patties on the hot surface and cook about 6 minutes per side, flipping once you see the edges firm up and the patties start to release naturally from the pan or grates. Sprinkle kosher salt on the second side too for balanced seasoning. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re fully cooked but juicy.
Step 4: Assemble and Enjoy
Once cooked, transfer your Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe to warm mini whole-grain pitas. Layer with crisp lettuce, thin slices of fresh tomato, and if you love a cool contrast, a generous dollop of Tzatziki Sauce. These layers add texture and a lively freshness, making every bite burst with flavor and satisfaction.
How to Serve Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe
Garnishes
The vibrant nature of these patties calls for equally fresh garnishes. Think crunchy romaine lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and if you’re a fan, red onion rings or fresh cucumber ribbons. Top with Tzatziki Sauce for that creamy, herby kick. A sprinkle of extra feta or a drizzle of olive oil can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe with Mediterranean-inspired sides to keep the feast cohesive and exciting. A Greek salad with olives and cucumbers, a light orzo pasta tossed with lemon and herbs, or crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and oregano make perfect companions. For something green and simple, steamed or grilled asparagus works beautifully too.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the classic pita sandwich, try serving these patties as part of a Greek platter—a build-your-own setup with pita wedges, hummus, olives, sliced veggies, and tzatziki on the side. You can also crumble the cooked patties over mixed greens for a warm, protein-packed salad or even stuff them inside warm flatbreads with a drizzle of harissa or spicy yogurt sauce for a flavor twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers from this Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe, store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious and moist for up to 3 days, making them a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
To enjoy these patties later, freeze the uncooked patties separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results, then proceed with cooking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat cooked patties gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out. Served with fresh garnishes or reheated pita, they’ll still taste fantastic.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a lean protein alternative and will still absorb the flavors beautifully. Just be mindful that some ground chicken can be a bit softer in texture, so handle gently when forming patties.
What if I don’t have jarred roasted red peppers?
If you can’t find jarred roasted red peppers, you can roast fresh red peppers at home under the broiler or on a grill until charred, then peel and chop them finely. They bring that slightly sweet, smoky flavor essential to this recipe.
Is feta cheese necessary? Can I substitute it?
Feta is crucial for that authentic tang and creaminess, but if you’re avoiding dairy, try a crumbly, tangy vegan cheese or omit it altogether and add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
How can I make these burgers spicier?
To turn up the heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or swap pepperoncini for pickled banana peppers. A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika in the mix can also add a wonderful warm kick.
Can I grill these burgers outdoors?
Yes! Grilling outdoors is a fantastic option. Use oil spray generously to prevent sticking and watch closely for nice char marks. Flip when the patties release easily from the grill grates, usually after about 6 minutes per side.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe at home – it’s a perfect way to enjoy bold Mediterranean flavors wrapped in the comfort and simplicity of a burger. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, these patties bring a juicy, fresh, and inviting meal to the table every time. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
PrintJuicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta Recipe
These Juicy Greek Turkey Burger Patties with Feta combine lean ground turkey with Mediterranean flavors like roasted red pepper, feta cheese, herbs, and optional pepperoncini for a deliciously savory and moist burger. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop or grill, these patties deliver a flavorful, healthy twist on a classic burger, served best in whole-grain mini pitas with fresh toppings and optional tzatziki sauce for a refreshing finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Turkey Burger Mix
- 1 pound ground turkey (at least 90% lean)
- ½ cup finely chopped jarred roasted red pepper (patted dry with paper towels)
- ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 garlic cloves (minced or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ cup finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (finely chopped or 1 teaspoon dried, optional)
- ¼ cup finely chopped jarred pepperoncini peppers (patted dry with paper towels, optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more to taste)
To Serve
- Whole-grain mini pita breads (split)
- Tzatziki Sauce (optional)
- Crisp lettuce leaves
- Thinly sliced tomato
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, roasted red pepper, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, red onion, fresh parsley, and optional fresh dill and pepperoncini peppers if using. Season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly using clean hands or a rubber spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Patties: Divide the turkey mixture evenly into four portions. Shape each portion into a large patty and place them on a nonstick surface such as wax or parchment paper. Sprinkle kosher salt over the tops of each patty. If grilling, lightly mist both sides of the patties and the grill surface with oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Preheat Cooking Surface: Coat a large sauté pan with oil spray and heat it over medium-high heat. Alternatively, preheat an indoor or outdoor grill pan and spray it with oil for grilling.
- Cook Patties: Place the burger patties in the hot pan or grill. Cook each side for about 6 minutes until the burgers are cooked through, no longer pink in the center, and reach an internal temperature of 165˚F. After flipping, sprinkle kosher salt on the tops of the second side as well. On a grill, wait for patties to release easily and develop nice char marks before flipping.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the cooked turkey patties in split whole-grain mini pita breads. Layer with crisp lettuce, thinly sliced tomato, and a dollop of optional tzatziki sauce for a fresh and flavorful Greek-inspired burger.
Notes
- Patting the jarred roasted red peppers and pepperoncini peppers dry helps prevent excess moisture in the patties.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure burgers reach an internal temperature of 165˚F for safe consumption.
- For grilling, misting the grill and patties with oil prevents sticking and helps achieve perfect char marks.
- Dill and pepperoncini are optional but add authentic Greek flavor.
- These patties can also be frozen before cooking for easy meal prep.
- Serve with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.