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If you crave a burger experience that’s bursting with Mediterranean sunshine and comforting flavors, look no further than this Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Aioli and Charred Red Onion Recipe. Juicy turkey patties infused with fresh herbs and roasted red peppers get an irresistible upgrade from creamy feta aioli, while smoky charred red onion rings add just the right touch of sweetness and texture. This is not your everyday burger—it’s a flavorful journey that’s both wholesome and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe has been carefully chosen to marry texture, freshness, and bold flavor. The combination of herbs, cheese, and roasted veggies is what makes these Greek Turkey Burgers especially unforgettable.
- Ground turkey: The lean base that makes these burgers both healthy and juicy when cooked just right.
- Fresh parsley and mint: Bright, aromatic herbs that bring a fresh lift to the savory meat.
- Dried basil and oregano: Classic Greek seasonings that deepen the flavor profile.
- Garlic: Adds that essential pungent warmth to both meat and sauce.
- Roasted red bell peppers: Sweet, smoky, and finely chopped to provide tender bursts of flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Light and crunchy, they help bind the patties without weighing them down.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled into the meat and the aioli for creamy tang and saltiness.
- Egg: Acts as a natural binder, ensuring the patties hold together perfectly.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: For seasoning that brings out all other flavors.
- Mayonnaise and Greek yogurt: Combined to make the aioli luscious but balanced.
- Harissa paste (optional): Offers a gentle heat for those who like a bit of spice.
- Red onion: Sliced thick for charring, adding a smoky crunch to each bite.
- Buns: Good-quality hamburger buns to hold all that flavorful goodness.
- Baby arugula: Peppery greens that add freshness and color.
How to Make Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Aioli and Charred Red Onion Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Meat and Herbs
Start by gathering your ground turkey and fresh herbs into a large mixing bowl. Combining parsley, mint, basil, oregano, garlic, roasted red peppers, panko breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper brings a wonderful garden-fresh and savory aroma. Use your hands to gently squish everything together—this hands-on step is truly satisfying and ensures even seasoning throughout each patty.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide your well-seasoned mixture into five equal portions. Then, form each portion into round patties but remember to press a slight thumb-sized indentation into the center. This simple trick keeps the patties from puffing up unevenly while cooking, resulting in perfectly flat, juicy burgers ready for the grill.
Step 3: Grill the Turkey Patties
Heat your grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for several minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and have a gorgeous golden crust. Then transfer them to a plate and cover them to keep warm. This step locks in juiciness and maximizes flavor.
Step 4: Char the Red Onions
While your patties are resting, toss the thick red onion rings onto the grill. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes so the natural sugars caramelize and develop those signature smoky char lines. The contrast of sweet, crisp onion elevates the texture profile when paired with the tender turkey burgers.
Step 5: Make the Feta Aioli
In a bowl, combine crumbled feta, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, harissa paste if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. This feta aioli is the magic sauce that ties the whole burger together, offering a tangy, spicy, and rich kick that makes every bite unforgettable.
Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers
Start with the bottom bun and slather a generous layer of feta aioli. Pile on the savory turkey patty, then a few rings of charred red onion, and a handful of fresh baby arugula. Add another dollop of aioli before crowning it with the top bun. The combination of creamy, smoky, fresh, and tender textures makes these burgers truly irresistible.
How to Serve Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Aioli and Charred Red Onion Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra burst of brightness and flavor, fresh lemon wedges on the side or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like dill or extra parsley work wonders. A few crunchy cucumber slices or crisp lettuce leaves can add welcome texture variety as well.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines alongside classic Mediterranean sides. Try a vibrant tomato cucumber salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, a creamy burrata salad, or your favorite crispy fries seasoned with fresh rosemary or smoked paprika. These sides complement and round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, serve these patties plated over a bed of warm couscous or quinoa salad for a lighter option without the bun. Alternatively, consider turning them into sliders for a party platter or serving with pita bread and extra aioli as a Greek-inspired sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep aioli separate to maintain its fresh flavor and creamy texture. Wrap buns separately to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Freezing
This Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Aioli and Charred Red Onion Recipe is freezer-friendly! Shape and freeze raw patties on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking for an easy future meal.
Reheating
For best results, reheat turkey patties gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through to maintain juiciness. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent drying out. Add fresh aioli and reheat buns lightly before assembling your burger again.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef or lamb instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps the burger light, ground beef or lamb can add richness and depth. Just adjust cooking times as needed depending on the meat’s fat content.
Is the harissa paste necessary?
Harissa is optional. It adds a subtle spicy heat that complements the flavors beautifully, but if you prefer milder tastes, feel free to leave it out or reduce the amount.
How do I know when the turkey burgers are fully cooked?
The safest method is using a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have one, cook until juices run clear and there’s no pink in the center.
Can I make the burgers ahead of time?
You can mix and form the patties a day in advance and refrigerate them, well-covered. This allows flavors to meld and makes grilling faster and easier on the day of serving.
What is the best bun for these burgers?
Choose soft but sturdy buns like brioche or potato rolls that can hold up to the juicy patties and creamy aioli without falling apart. Toasting them lightly enhances flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about these Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Aioli and Charred Red Onion Recipe. They are a perfect harmony of wholesome ingredients and bold Mediterranean flavor that will quickly become a favorite weeknight dinner or weekend cookout star. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be eager to invite friends over just so you can share this delicious discovery. Get grilling and enjoy every vibrant, juicy bite!
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Greek Turkey Burgers with Feta Aioli and Charred Red Onion Recipe
Delicious Greek Turkey Burgers infused with fresh herbs, feta cheese, and roasted red peppers, served with a creamy feta aioli, grilled red onions, and baby arugula on a quality hamburger bun. Perfectly grilled or pan-cooked for a flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
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
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, parsley, mint, dried basil, dried oregano, minced garlic, chopped roasted red peppers, Panko breadcrumbs, feta cheese crumbles, egg, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a meat chopper until fully incorporated. Divide the mixture into 5 equal portions and shape into patties, pressing a thumb imprint in the center of each patty to promote even cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast iron skillet well-greased over medium-high if cooking stovetop. Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for several minutes on each side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and burgers are cooked through. Remove patties from heat and cover to keep warm.
- Grill the Onions: Place the sliced red onion rings on the grill and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes until they are slightly charred and softened, adding a smoky flavor.
- Make the Feta Aioli: In a bowl, combine the feta cheese crumbles, light mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and harissa paste (if using). Mix well until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of feta aioli on the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Add the cooked Greek turkey burger patty on top, then layer with grilled onion rings and baby arugula. Add more feta aioli if desired, and finish with the top bun.
- Serve: Serve the burgers immediately, pairing them with a fresh tomato cucumber salad, burrata salad, or fries for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a different flavor profile, substitute ground turkey with ground beef or lamb.
- Harissa paste in the aioli adds a spicy kick but can be omitted if you prefer milder flavors.
- The thumb imprint in patties helps them cook evenly without puffing up in the center.
- Ensure the internal temperature of turkey burgers reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Use good quality buns to hold the juicy burgers and toppings well.
- Leftover feta aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek