Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki

If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger that’s a little lighter than your usual beef patty but just as satisfying, these Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki are exactly what you need. Packed with herbs and spices, these turkey burgers are tender and delicious, perfectly complemented by a cool, creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe is sure to become a fast favorite in your meal rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Turkey burgers often get overlooked because of their reputation for being dry or bland. But this recipe changes all that. The combination of finely chopped onion, garlic, oregano, and seasoning ensures the turkey patties are bursting with flavor and stay moist through cooking. The homemade tzatziki sauce—made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, fresh dill, and lemon juice—adds a refreshing contrast that elevates the entire dish. Wrapped in a soft burger bun and layered with crisp lettuce and juicy tomato, these Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki offer a balanced, nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and light.

What’s more, this recipe is incredibly straightforward and quick to prepare, using simple ingredients you likely have on hand. It caters to those who want wholesome meals without compromising on taste, making it perfect for anyone from busy families to casual entertaining. Dive in and discover how easy it is to make a gourmet-quality meal at home!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste (for tzatziki)
• Burger buns
• Lettuce leaves for serving
• Tomato slices for serving

How To Make Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

Start by making the tzatziki sauce, which is best when it has time to chill and let the flavors meld. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid watery sauce), fresh dill, and lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers.

Step 2: Mix the Turkey Burger Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Divide the turkey mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty, about 3/4-inch thick. Press your thumb lightly into the center of each patty to prevent it from puffing up during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Burgers

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the turkey patties and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the patties are golden brown on the outside. Avoid pressing down on the patties with your spatula to keep them juicy.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Lightly toast the burger buns if desired. On each bun bottom, layer a crisp lettuce leaf and a turkey burger patty. Top with a generous dollop of the homemade tzatziki sauce and a few slices of fresh tomato. Place the bun top on, and your Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki are ready to serve!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip squeezing out the cucumber: Removing excess moisture from the grated cucumber ensures your tzatziki sauce stays creamy and not watery.
• Use fresh dill: Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor, so opt for fresh dill rather than dried for the sauce.
• Handle the meat gently: Overmixing the turkey can lead to dense burgers, so mix just until combined.
• Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your turkey burgers are fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Let the patties rest: After cooking, let the burgers rest for a few minutes to keep juices locked in.
• Customize your buns: Try whole wheat, brioche, or gluten-free buns depending on your preference.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture for a little heat.
• Cheese lovers: Top the cooked patties with a slice of feta or mozzarella cheese and let it melt slightly before serving.
• Herb swaps: Use fresh mint or parsley in the tzatziki sauce for a different herbal twist.
• Grilled instead of pan-fried: Cook the turkey patties on a grill for a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.
• Additional toppings: Try adding sliced red onions, avocado, or roasted red peppers to your burger for extra layers of flavor and texture.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe is naturally high in protein and relatively low in fat compared to traditional beef burgers, making it a healthier choice. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. If you prefer a dairy-free tzatziki, swap the Greek yogurt for a coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative that is thick and creamy. Adding lettuce leaves also makes this burger low-carb if you skip the bun or use a lettuce wrap instead.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover turkey burgers, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The tzatziki sauce should be kept in a separate container to maintain its freshness and texture, and it will last about 4-5 days in the refrigerator. To reheat the burgers, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through, then add fresh toppings and sauce for serving.

FAQ

Can I make these turkey burgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This helps the flavors meld even more. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.

Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt for the tzatziki?

Greek yogurt is ideal because of its thick and creamy texture, which makes the tzatziki rich and smooth. However, you can substitute with regular plain yogurt that has been strained to remove excess liquid if needed.

How do I prevent turkey burgers from drying out?

The breadcrumbs and onion in the mixture help retain moisture in the patties. Also, avoid overcooking and flipping the burgers too often. Cooking over medium heat and resting the burgers after cooking will keep them juicy.

Can I freeze these turkey burgers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the raw turkey patties by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, and then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Conclusion

Turkey Burgers with Tzatziki combine the best of juicy, herb-infused turkey patties and the cool, tangy goodness of homemade tzatziki sauce. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a fresh twist on classic burgers without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. With simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and endless customization options, these burgers are a fantastic choice for any occasion. Serve them with your favorite sides or enjoy them as a wholesome meal any day of the week—you’re guaranteed a delicious experience every time!

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