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Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Aioli and Charred Onions Recipe


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4.3 from 1 review

  • Author: Eliza
  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings

Description

These Greek Turkey Burgers are a flavorful twist on the classic burger, combining ground turkey with fresh herbs, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers. Grilled to perfection and topped with a creamy feta aioli, caramelized onions, and fresh arugula, they offer a tasty Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

For the Burgers

  • 1 lb ground turkey (or use ground beef or ground lamb)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 6 fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup roasted red bell peppers, finely chopped
  • 2/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup feta cheese crumbles
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Feta Aioli

  • ¼ cup feta cheese crumbles
  • ¼ cup light mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 teaspoons harissa paste (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly

  • ½ red onion, sliced into thick rings
  • 5 hamburger buns (good quality)
  • 1 cup baby arugula (or lettuce of choice)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped parsley, finely chopped mint leaves, dried basil, dried oregano, minced garlic, finely chopped roasted red peppers, Panko breadcrumbs, feta cheese crumbles, egg, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a meat chopper until all ingredients are well incorporated. Divide the mixture into 5 equal portions and shape each into a patty, pressing a thumb imprint into the center to help them cook evenly.
  2. Cook the Patties: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. Grease the cooking surface to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for several minutes on each side, flipping only once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the burgers are cooked through. Remove the patties to a plate and cover to keep warm.
  3. Cook the Onions: Add the sliced red onion rings to the grill or skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a slight char and soften.
  4. Prepare the Feta Aioli: In a small bowl, combine feta cheese crumbles, light mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and harissa paste if using. Mix until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy spread offers a tangy complement to the burgers.
  5. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous layer of feta aioli on the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Place a Greek turkey burger patty on top, followed by charred onion rings, a handful of baby arugula, and an additional dollop of the feta aioli. Cap with the top bun and gently press together.
  6. Serve: Enjoy these flavorful burgers immediately, pairing them with a fresh tomato cucumber salad, burrata salad, or your favorite fries for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef or lamb for the turkey based on preference.
  • Harissa paste in the aioli adds a spicy kick but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
  • Pressing a thumbprint into each patty helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
  • Use a food thermometer to ensure the patties reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek