Name: Mediterranean Turkey Smash Burger Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound ground turkey (94% lean); 6 fajita-sized flour tortillas; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons dill weed; 1 to 2 tablespoons butter; ⅓ cup crumbled feta (plus 2 tablespoons more for topping per burger); Pickled onions (for topping); Shredded lettuce (for topping); Chopped tomatoes (for topping); Chopped roasted red peppers (for topping); ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 lemon (juice freshly squeezed and zest freshly grated); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill; ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 5 reviews

If you are looking for a bold, fresh, and irresistible twist on your taco nights, the Mediterranean Turkey Smash Burger Tacos Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Bursting with vibrant flavors from tangy feta, zesty lemon, and fragrant dill, this dish combines the juicy goodness of turkey smashed crispy onto warm tortillas with the brightness of Mediterranean-inspired toppings. It’s a harmonious blend that’s light yet satisfying, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying a lively weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this, tacos will never be the same again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six round white tortillas laid out on white parchment paper, placed on a white marbled surface. Each tortilla has one layer of light pink raw minced meat spread evenly in a circular shape, covering most of the tortilla's surface except the edges. Green dried herbs and black pepper are sprinkled lightly on top of the meat on all six tortillas, adding small specks of green and black over the pink layer. The arrangement is neat in two rows of three tortillas each. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses a handful of simple but essential ingredients that play a starring role in delivering those authentic Mediterranean vibes. Each component brings its own magic—whether it’s the lean turkey for juicy protein, the creamy feta adding tangy saltiness, or the fresh herbs and veggies lending bright color and texture.

1 pound ground turkey (94% lean): Choose lean turkey to keep the burgers juicy without extra grease.
6 fajita-sized flour tortillas: Soft and sturdy for holding all those delicious toppings without falling apart.
Kosher salt and pepper: For seasoning that enhances the natural flavors.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth that every bite will crave.
2 teaspoons dill weed: This herb brings subtle, aromatic notes classic to Mediterranean cuisine.
1 to 2 tablespoons butter: Used for cooking the turkey and crisping the tortillas to golden perfection.
⅓ cup crumbled feta (plus extra for topping): The tangy, creamy cheese is a star player for authentic flavor and added texture.
Pickled onions: Their sharpness cuts through richness and adds a delightful tang.
Shredded lettuce: For freshness and a satisfying crunch.
Chopped tomatoes: Sweet juiciness that balances savory and salty elements.
Chopped roasted red peppers: Adds smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
½ cup plain Greek yogurt: The creamy base for the zesty feta sauce.
1 lemon (juice and zest): Provides bright citrus notes that enliven the sauce and overall dish.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Gives a fresh herbal punch to the sauce.

How to Make Mediterranean Turkey Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Cooking Surface and Turkey

Start by heating up a large nonstick griddle, flat top grill, or a nonstick skillet over medium heat. This will be crucial to getting that iconic crisp and golden color on your turkey and tortillas. Next, divide the ground turkey into six equal parts. Press each portion onto a flour tortilla—yes, right onto it—flattening until nearly touching the edges. Season each with kosher salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dill weed to infuse flavor from the start.

Step 2: Smash and Sear the Turkey

Melt a tablespoon of butter on your hot surface to prevent sticking and help crispiness. Lay your turkey-tortilla creations turkey-side down and press firmly with a spatula or another flat object to really smash the meat into the pan. This technique builds an amazing crunchy crust packed with concentrated flavor. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until you see a deep golden brown forming.

Step 3: Flip and Add Feta Cheese

Carefully flip the tortilla turkey-side up so the tortilla now meets the pan’s heat. You can add a touch more butter if you want extra crisp, but it’s optional. Immediately sprinkle about two tablespoons of crumbled feta cheese on the turkey side; the cheese will warm and soften but not fully melt, adding that classic briny creaminess. Let cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the tortilla is golden and crisp.

Step 4: Remove and Top

Once cooked, remove the tortilla from the pan. Top immediately with bright, fresh chopped tomatoes, roasted red peppers, shredded lettuce, and tangy pickled onions. Finally, drizzle or dollop your luscious yogurt feta sauce to bring everything together. Fold everything up taco-style, and you’re ready to dive in!

Step 5: Make the Yogurt Feta Sauce

Whisk together plain Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, chopped fresh dill, crumbled feta, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. This sauce adds a creamy, zesty contrast to the burger filling. It can be made ahead and refrigerated for a day or two—just give it a quick stir before serving.

How to Serve Mediterranean Turkey Smash Burger Tacos Recipe

There are three small toasted tortillas on a round white plate with some charred spots, each topped with shredded light green lettuce as the first layer, followed by small red tomato pieces, thin pink pickled onion slices, white crumbled cheese scattered on top, and a drizzle of white creamy sauce. To the left side of the plate, there is a clear glass bowl with more pink pickled onions and a metal fork inside. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The joy of this recipe comes alive in the garnishes. Fresh shredded lettuce offers crunch, chopped tomatoes bring juicy sweetness, roasted red peppers add smoky hints, and pickled onions lend a vivid tangy punch. These toppings create perfect texture balance and make each bite exciting.

Side Dishes

Serve with simple Mediterranean-inspired sides like a crisp cucumber salad, lemon herb quinoa, or warm pita chips with hummus. These options complement the flavors without overshadowing the star of the show—the Mediterranean Turkey Smash Burger Tacos Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these tacos deconstructed on a large platter with all toppings on the side or pile them in small lettuce cups for a low-carb alternative. Offering an array of vibrant garnishes lets your guests personalize their tacos, turning dinner into an interactive and festive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey smash burgers and toppings store well in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep tortillas wrapped in foil or a zip-top bag to avoid drying out. This allows you to quickly assemble fresh tacos the next day without losing the crisp texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked turkey patties wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. However, for best texture and flavor, freeze them without the tortilla. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on a skillet.

Reheating

Reheat turkey patties in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore crispiness, and warm tortillas briefly in a dry pan or microwave wrapped in a damp towel. Add fresh toppings when assembling to keep the dish as vibrant and fresh as when first made.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken is a good substitute, although turkey tends to have a bit more flavor and moisture. If you do use chicken, just be sure to season well and monitor cooking time to avoid drying out.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas or any gluten-free tortilla option you like. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make the yogurt feta sauce vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based yogurt substitute and vegan feta cheese or omit feta entirely. Fresh herbs and lemon juice will still keep the sauce flavorful and creamy.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild and very approachable, focusing on fresh Mediterranean herbs and tangy feta rather than heat. You can add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce if you like some kick.

What’s the best way to press the turkey onto the skillet?

A sturdy spatula or the back of a smaller pan works great to firmly press the turkey against the hot surface, which helps create that beautiful crust. Press a few times during cooking to get even browning.

Final Thoughts

The Mediterranean Turkey Smash Burger Tacos Recipe is one of those delightful surprises that effortlessly brings together simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. It’s fresh, fun, and bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion whether it’s a casual weeknight or a lively get-together. Give it a try—you’ll be sharing this recipe as a favorite in no time!