Turkey burgers get a bad rap for being dry and bland, but these spinach feta turkey burgers are anything but! They’re packed with flavor, super moist, and surprisingly easy to make. Forget those flavorless patties – this recipe will transform your turkey burger game.
Why You’ll Love These Burgers
These aren’t your average burgers. Here’s why they’re so good:
* Moist and Juicy: No dry turkey here! The spinach and feta add moisture and prevent the patties from drying out during cooking.
* Flavor Explosion: Spinach, feta, garlic, and herbs create a delicious Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
* Healthy and Lean: Turkey is a great source of lean protein, making these burgers a healthy and satisfying meal.
* Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have these burgers on the table in no time.
* Versatile: Serve them on buns, lettuce wraps, or even over a salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing burgers:
* Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey (93% lean) for a healthier option.
* Spinach: Fresh spinach adds moisture and nutrients. Make sure to chop it finely.
* Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese provides a salty, tangy flavor that complements the turkey and spinach perfectly.
* Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
* Egg: An egg helps bind the ingredients together.
* Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs add structure and help absorb excess moisture. Use plain or Italian breadcrumbs.
* Dried Oregano: Adds a classic Mediterranean flavor.
* Salt and Pepper: To enhance the flavors.
* Olive Oil: For cooking the burgers (optional).
How to Make Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps to create juicy and flavorful turkey burgers:
1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
3. Cook the Burgers: There are several ways to cook these burgers:
* Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil. Grill the burgers for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
* Stovetop: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the burgers for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through.
* Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
4. Serve: Serve the burgers on your favorite buns with your desired toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Tips for Perfect Turkey Burgers
* Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the turkey mixture can result in tough burgers. Mix gently until just combined.
* Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the burgers are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. They should reach 165°F (74°C).
* Don’t Press Down: Avoid pressing down on the burgers while they are cooking, as this will squeeze out the juices and make them dry.
* Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful burger.
* Add Moisture: The spinach and feta cheese help to keep these burgers moist, but you can also add other ingredients like grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
These spinach feta turkey burgers are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:
* Classic Burger: Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, onion, and your favorite condiments.
* Mediterranean Burger: Top with tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumber, and Kalamata olives.
* Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the burgers in lettuce wraps.
* Salad: Crumble the burgers over a salad for a protein-packed meal.
* Side Dishes: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a Greek salad.
Variations
* Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
* Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil, dill, or mint.
* Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* Try Different Cheese: Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or mozzarella.
Frequently Asked Questions
* Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.
* Can I make these burgers ahead of time? Yes, you can make the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
* Can I freeze these burgers? Yes, you can freeze cooked or uncooked burgers. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before cooking or reheating.
* What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? You can use crushed crackers or rolled oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
* How do I keep the burgers from sticking to the grill? Make sure to preheat your grill properly and lightly brush the grates with oil before grilling the burgers.
Enjoy these delicious and healthy spinach feta turkey burgers! They’re a perfect weeknight meal that everyone will love.