Really Good Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers

Short Description
These Really Good Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers are packed with flavor, combining the richness of feta cheese and the earthy taste of spinach with lean turkey for a deliciously healthy burger. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, these burgers are tender, juicy, and full of savory goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These turkey burgers are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor! The spinach and feta add a Mediterranean twist to the traditional turkey burger, creating a juicy and flavorful patty. The added spices, including garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning, give the burgers extra depth of flavor, while the panko breadcrumbs keep them tender. Whether you cook them on the stovetop or grill them, they’re sure to be a hit at your next meal!

Ingredients

• 4 ounces frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and squeezed dry (or 2 cups loosely packed fresh spinach, finely chopped after measuring)
• ¾ cup crumbled feta (about 4 ounces)
• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 hamburger buns

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the defrosted and squeezed spinach, crumbled feta, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix well to ensure there are no large pieces of spinach or feta.
2. Add the turkey and seasonings: Add the ground turkey to the bowl. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Form the patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties about 1 inch thick. If the mixture seems too sticky or wet to form into patties, mix in an additional 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs.
4. Cook on the stovetop: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the burgers in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Grill the burgers: If grilling, chill the patties in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm them up. Make a small indent in the middle of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up. Grill over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side or until the burgers reach 165°F internally.
6. Assemble the burgers: Serve the cooked patties on hamburger buns with your favorite toppings and sauces.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (stovetop) or 10-14 minutes (grill)
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground turkey and substitute with a plant-based burger patty or chickpea-based patty for a vegetarian option.
• Add More Veggies: You can mix in other vegetables like finely grated zucchini or bell peppers for additional moisture and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Swap: If you don’t have feta, you can substitute with goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cooked turkey burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the burgers in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For a crispier exterior, you can reheat them in a skillet or air fryer.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just make sure to chop it finely after measuring, and sauté it briefly to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.

2. Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time. Just cover them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

3. Can I freeze these turkey burgers?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

4. How can I make these burgers more flavorful?

If you want more flavor, add extra seasonings like paprika, cumin, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the mixture. A little bit of lemon zest also adds brightness to the flavor.

5. How do I keep turkey burgers from drying out?

Adding spinach, feta, and breadcrumbs helps keep the turkey burgers moist. Avoid overcooking them, as turkey can dry out quickly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for the perfect moist burger.

6. Can I make these burgers without breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can substitute breadcrumbs with ground oats or crushed crackers if needed. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! If you don’t have feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar for a different flavor.

8. What can I serve with these turkey burgers?

These burgers pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a light dipping sauce like tzatziki or a garlic aioli.

9. How do I prevent my turkey burgers from falling apart?

Make sure to chill the patties before grilling, and avoid handling them too much when forming the patties. The breadcrumbs help bind everything together.

10. Can I grill these burgers if I don’t have a grill pan?

Yes, you can cook them on any regular outdoor grill or even a stovetop grill. Just ensure the heat is medium-high to avoid drying them out.

Conclusion

These Really Good Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers are a flavorful, healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. The combination of spinach, feta, and spices gives these patties a delicious Mediterranean twist, making them a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling or cooking on the stovetop, these turkey burgers are quick, easy, and full of flavor that everyone will enjoy!

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