Grilled Turkey Burgers with Feta

Grilled turkey burgers with feta offer a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired twist on the classic burger. Lean ground turkey serves as a healthy base, while tangy feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a blend of spices give these burgers a unique and refreshing flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a summer cookout, this step-by-step recipe ensures juicy, aromatic patties that everyone will enjoy. These burgers pair well with a variety of sides, including Greek salads, roasted vegetables, or even a simple yogurt sauce. Let’s explore how to bring this delicious dish to life.

Ingredients

To prepare these grilled turkey burgers with feta, gather the following ingredients:

1 ½ pounds ground turkey (preferably 93% lean)
¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
4 whole wheat burger buns
Optional toppings: sliced tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, baby spinach, tzatziki sauce, or hummus

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your components. Chop the red onion finely to avoid large chunks in the burger. Mince the garlic thoroughly for even distribution. Wash and finely chop the parsley and oregano. If you’re using dried oregano, measure it carefully, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Zest a lemon using a microplane or fine grater, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath the yellow skin.

Crumbled feta adds a salty, creamy contrast to the lean turkey. If you purchase block feta, crumble it by hand or with a fork before mixing. Portion out the ground turkey into a large mixing bowl to begin assembling the burger mixture.

Mixing the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, crumbled feta, chopped red onion, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and olive oil. The olive oil adds moisture and helps the patties stay tender during grilling. Mix the ingredients gently using clean hands or a wooden spoon. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers dense and tough.

Once the mixture is evenly combined, divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty approximately ¾ inch thick. Keep in mind that turkey burgers don’t shrink as much as beef when cooked, so form them to fit your burger buns. Place the patties on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate them for 20 to 30 minutes. This helps the patties firm up, making them easier to handle on the grill.

Preheating the Grill

While the patties chill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375 to 400°F (190 to 205°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to burn down until they’re covered with white ash. For gas grills, preheat with the lid closed for 10 to 15 minutes. Clean and oil the grill grates using a grill brush and a paper towel dipped in oil. This step helps prevent the burgers from sticking and ensures those classic grill marks.

Grilling the Turkey Burgers

Once the grill is ready, remove the patties from the refrigerator. Carefully place them on the hot grill using a spatula. Close the lid and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on the first side without moving them. This allows a crust to form, which helps seal in the juices. Flip the burgers gently with a spatula and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes on the second side.

Turkey burgers must be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the patty to check for doneness. If you’re not using a thermometer, cut into one patty to ensure it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. Once cooked, transfer the burgers to a clean plate and tent them loosely with foil. Let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Toasting the Buns

While the burgers rest, toast the whole wheat buns on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes. Place them cut-side down directly over the heat. Watch closely to avoid burning. Toasting the buns adds a subtle crunch and prevents them from getting soggy when topped with juicy ingredients.

Assembling the Burgers

Now it’s time to put everything together. Place each grilled turkey patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add your preferred toppings. For a Mediterranean feel, top with fresh spinach or arugula, thinly sliced cucumbers, and juicy tomato slices. A generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce or a smear of hummus enhances the flavor and adds creaminess without overwhelming the dish.

Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately. These burgers can be paired with a side of Greek salad, sweet potato fries, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

For the best results, use ground turkey with a bit of fat—ideally 93% lean. Extremely lean turkey (99%) can make the patties dry. Mixing in olive oil and feta helps add moisture, but starting with the right meat is key. If your burger mixture feels too wet, add a couple of tablespoons of breadcrumbs to help bind it together.

To avoid sticking on the grill, make sure your patties are firm and your grill grates are clean and oiled. Don’t press down on the burgers while grilling, as this forces out the juices and can lead to dryness. Letting the burgers rest after grilling ensures they stay juicy and flavorful.

If you prefer to cook indoors, these burgers can also be prepared on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook for the same amount of time, flipping once halfway through, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

These Mediterranean-style turkey burgers can be enjoyed in several ways. Serve them in traditional burger buns or wrap them in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. You can also serve the patties on a bed of greens with a drizzle of vinaigrette for a satisfying salad.

For side dishes, consider options like couscous salad with olives and cherry tomatoes, roasted garlic potatoes, or a refreshing tabbouleh. A side of grilled zucchini or eggplant complements the Mediterranean flavors perfectly. If you’re hosting a gathering, offer a build-your-own burger bar with various toppings and sauces, allowing guests to customize their meals.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover turkey burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can dry out the patties.

You can also freeze cooked turkey burgers. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Customizing the Recipe

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili to the mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or mint, for a fresh twist.

For a dairy-free option, omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based cheese. To make the burgers gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or serve the patties over a grain-free salad. The base recipe provides a solid foundation for endless customization while maintaining the Mediterranean character of the dish.

Why Choose Turkey Over Beef

Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef, making it a popular choice for health-conscious cooks. It’s lower in saturated fat and calories, yet still rich in protein. When combined with flavorful ingredients like herbs, garlic, and feta, turkey can be just as satisfying as traditional beef burgers. It’s also a great option for those looking to reduce red meat consumption without sacrificing taste or texture.

Turkey pairs exceptionally well with Mediterranean flavors, making it ideal for dishes that highlight olive oil, lemon, and herbs. Its mild taste allows the other ingredients to shine, resulting in a well-balanced burger that’s both hearty and light.

Nutrition Highlights

Each turkey burger patty contains an excellent source of protein, with roughly 25 to 30 grams per serving. The inclusion of feta cheese adds calcium and a bit of healthy fat. Fresh herbs provide antioxidants and contribute to vibrant flavor without added calories. Using whole wheat buns increases fiber content and supports better digestion.

By choosing fresh, wholesome ingredients and avoiding processed toppings, these burgers align well with a balanced Mediterranean-style diet. They offer a satisfying, nutrient-rich alternative to heavier, beef-based burgers, while still delivering on taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Grilled turkey burgers with feta deliver a perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. With Mediterranean ingredients like garlic, herbs, and tangy cheese, each bite is both satisfying and wholesome. This recipe is ideal for weeknight meals, weekend barbecues, or anytime you’re craving a lighter take on a classic favorite. By following these easy steps and tips, you’ll create juicy, flavorful burgers that are sure to become a regular part of your cooking repertoire.

Grilled Turkey Burgers with Feta