Showing posts with label burgers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label burgers. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad

  

These Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt and Mediterranean Salad are bursting with bright, fresh flavor. Juicy, tender, and easy enough for a weeknight, this recipe is inspired by Primal Gourmet’s healthy Mediterranean-style dishes.




The Mediterranean Table: Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers with Lemon-Dill Yogurt & Salad


My husband and I have always been drawn to Mediterranean flavors — the brightness of lemon, the freshness of herbs, and the way a drizzle of olive oil can make even the simplest ingredients feel special.

One evening while scrolling Instagram, I came across a recipe from Primal Gourmet, one of my favorite creators for Whole30 and healthy spins on global cuisines. His Mediterranean turkey burgers immediately caught my eye — juicy patties packed with spinach and feta, paired with a tangy yogurt sauce and crisp salad. I had to try it.

I didn’t stray far from his version, because honestly, it was perfect as-is. The flavors are incredible — the turkey stays juicy and tender, the feta adds a creamy bite, and that lemon-dill yogurt ties everything together. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet fresh and elegant enough to serve for guests.

This has quickly become one of my new favorites — a dish that tastes like sunshine, simplicity, and the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite.

Enjoy!


Visit Primal Gourmet here.




What Ingredients Do I Need?

These Mediterranean-inspired turkey burgers come together with a handful of fresh, flavorful ingredients that balance brightness and comfort beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Ground Turkey: Lean yet tender, turkey provides the perfect canvas for Mediterranean herbs and creamy feta. Choose 93% lean for juicy, flavorful patties.
  • Baby Spinach: Adds color, moisture, and a subtle earthy note that keeps the burgers tender and nutrient-packed.
  • Feta Cheese: Brings salty, tangy flavor and little creamy pops in every bite. Look for authentic Greek feta packed in brine for the best flavor.
  • Garlic: Freshly grated garlic deepens the flavor and ties together the lemon, dill, and herbs.
  • Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the burger mixture together while adding a little richness.
  • Fresh Dill: Adds a bright, herbal kick to the yogurt sauce that complements the feta perfectly.
  • Greek Yogurt: Thick, creamy, and tangy — it’s the base for that dreamy lemon-dill sauce that cools and balances the savory burgers.
  • Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and acidity, essential to achieving that true Mediterranean flavor.
  • Olive Oil: The heart of Mediterranean cooking — use a good-quality extra-virgin oil for both the salad and cooking the burgers.
  • Fresh Vegetables (Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Lettuce): Crisp, juicy, and colorful, they round out the plate with texture and freshness.
  • Fresh Parsley: A little sprinkle adds color, freshness, and that classic Mediterranean green note.





Substitutions and Variations

These turkey burgers are wonderfully flexible — you can adjust them for what you have on hand or give them a new flavor twist altogether.

Basic Substitutions

  • Protein: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken for a similar lean option. For a richer flavor, try ground lamb or beef.
  • Greens: Use finely chopped kale or arugula instead of spinach. Both add a slightly different flavor and extra nutrients.
  • Cheese: If you’re out of feta, try goat cheese for a creamy tang or crumbled cotija for a saltier bite.
  • Yogurt: Regular Greek yogurt is best, but dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt work for a lighter option.
  • Herbs: No dill? Try fresh mint, basil, or oregano for a different Mediterranean spin.

Variation 1: Greek Island Style

Add a few chopped Kalamata olives and a pinch of lemon zest to the burger mixture, then top the finished burgers with sliced cucumber and a drizzle of olive oil. The olives bring depth and briny balance to the creamy feta.

Variation 2: Spicy Mediterranean Twist

Mix a teaspoon of harissa paste or a pinch of cayenne into the turkey mixture and top the burgers with a spoonful of tzatziki instead of the lemon-dill yogurt. This version brings heat and depth while keeping that fresh, Mediterranean vibe.





Kitchen Tips & Notes

  • Chill the Patties: Refrigerating the burger mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps them firm up and hold their shape beautifully.
  • Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients just until mixed — overworking the meat can make the burgers dense.
  • Use Damp Hands: Lightly wet your hands before forming the patties; this prevents sticking and gives you smooth, even shapes.
  • Cook in Batches: Avoid crowding the pan so the burgers brown evenly and develop that golden crust.
  • Make Ahead Friendly: The burger mixture and the yogurt sauce can both be prepped a day ahead — perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
  • Serving Idea: Serve these burgers over the salad, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or tucked into warm pita with extra lemon-dill yogurt for a handheld version.





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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     


















Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Easy Greek-Style Turkey Burgers – Ready in 30 Minutes


Fresh, flavorful Greek-Style Turkey Burgers with spinach, feta & tzatziki — a quick, 30-minute fall weeknight dinner bursting with Mediterranean comfort.




Easy Greek-Style Turkey Burgers – Ready in 30 Minutes


October is a busy month — between Halloween plans, football games, school nights, and fall activities, dinner needs to be easy, quick, and completely satisfying. That’s where these Easy Greek-Style Turkey Burgers come in.

In just 30 minutes, you can have juicy, golden-brown turkey patties infused with spinach, tangy feta, and fragrant oregano — all tucked into a warm bun and topped with cool, creamy tzatziki. Each bite delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavor that feels fresh and light, yet hearty enough for a chilly autumn evening.

No grill, no complicated prep — just simple ingredients, a hot skillet, and a little weeknight magic. Serve them with a side of roasted potatoes or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a dinner that’s as effortless as it is delicious.

Enjoy!





What You’ll Need to Make It

Simple ingredients come together to create a burger that’s fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Here’s what gives these Greek-style turkey burgers their signature taste:

  • Ground Turkey – Lean and mild, the perfect base for soaking up Mediterranean herbs and feta without feeling heavy.
  • Frozen Chopped Spinach – Adds color, nutrients, and moisture while keeping the patties tender.
  • Feta Cheese – Salty, tangy, and rich — the flavor hero that makes every bite pop.
  • Garlic Powder & Oregano – Classic Greek seasonings that bring warmth and depth.
  • Salt & Pepper – Simple, essential seasonings to round out the flavor.
  • Canola Oil – Helps sear the burgers for that crave-worthy golden crust.
  • Tzatziki Sauce – Cool, creamy, and herby — the finishing touch that ties it all together.
  • Whole-Wheat Buns – A wholesome base that complements the light, savory filling.
  • Red Onion & Cucumber – Crisp and refreshing toppings that add crunch and brightness.



Substitutions and Variations

Want to make these burgers your own? Here are some easy swaps and twists that keep the Mediterranean flavors alive:

Substitutions

  • Protein Swaps: Ground chickenLighter and mild, it cooks similarly and still pairs beautifully with spinach, feta, and oregano. Ground lamb – For a richer, more traditional Mediterranean flavor if you want a slightly indulgent twist.
  • Cheese Options: Goat cheeseTangy and creamy, either as a replacement or mixed with feta for extra flavor. Ricotta salata – Mild and slightly salty, adds a delicate texture without overpowering the burger.
  • Bread & Base Alternatives: Whole wheat pita – Turn your burger into a gyro-style wrap for a fun change. Lettuce wraps – A low-carb option that’s crisp and fresh, pairing perfectly with tzatziki.
  • Herb & Seasoning Variations: Fresh parsley or dill – Replace or supplement oregano for a brighter, herb-forward flavor. Smoked paprika or sumac – Adds subtle warmth or a hint of tang without straying from the Greek theme.
  • Topping Twists: Roasted red peppers – Sweet, colorful, and perfectly Mediterranean. Kalamata olives – Briny and bold, a flavorful pop in every bite.

These simple swaps let you customize your burger while keeping it fast, easy, and packed with Greek-inspired flavor — perfect for a busy fall weeknight.

Switch It Up - Variations

Want to make these burgers your own? Here are a few easy ways to mix things up without losing that Greek flair:

  • Mediterranean Chicken Burgers:
    Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken. It pairs beautifully with the same spinach, feta, and herbs — just as juicy, slightly lighter in flavor.

  • Greek Burger Bowls:
    Skip the buns and serve the patties over a bed of greens with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of tzatziki or lemon vinaigrette for a fresh, lower-carb option.




Kitchen Tips & Notes

  • Don’t overmix the meat. Combine the ingredients gently — overworking can make the burgers tough.
  • Squeeze the spinach well. Removing excess water keeps the patties from becoming too soft or falling apart.
  • Check for doneness. Use an instant-read thermometer — the center should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked turkey.
  • Toast your buns. A quick toast in the same skillet adds texture and keeps them from getting soggy.
  • Meal prep friendly. Cooked patties reheat beautifully in a skillet or air fryer — perfect for easy lunches or another busy weeknight.





Equipment You Will Need

You don’t need anything fancy — just a few reliable kitchen staples to make these burgers come together quickly and cook up perfectly golden.

Cast Iron Skillet - Ideal for creating that gorgeous, even sear while keeping the burgers juicy inside. This is one of the first one's that I ever bought.  It will last for generations.

Mixing Bowl – Medium-sized, for combining the turkey mixture without overworking the meat.

Spatula  – Helps flip the patties cleanly without breaking them. I like to use metal with my cast iron because of the high heat factor.


Measuring Spoons – For those key seasonings — oregano, garlic powder, and salt.


Instant-Read Thermometer – The foolproof way to ensure your turkey burgers reach 165°F for perfect doneness.














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Saturday, June 28, 2025

Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers

Celebrate the Fourth of July with Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers! These juicy, ranch-seasoned burgers are loaded with melted cheddar and crispy bacon—perfect for your summer BBQ.




Stars, Stripes & Smoky Bites: Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers


There’s something magical about a sizzling grill, a backyard full of laughter, and the unmistakable scent of burgers in the summer air. And when the Fourth of July rolls around, it’s time to bring out the big flavor. These Bacon Cheddar Ranch Burgers are my go-to when I want something festive, satisfying, and guaranteed to please a crowd. I love a good burger—if you’ve been around the blog for a while, you know I’ve shared quite a few! But this one’s a true standout: juicy ground beef seasoned with tangy ranch and a dollop of sour cream for that rich, tender texture, topped with sharp cheddar and a sprinkle of crispy bacon. It’s bold, it’s smoky, and it tastes like summer.

Best of all, these burgers come together with almost no fuss, making them perfect for easy entertaining. Pair them with my crispy oven fries (pro tip: toss those with a little ranch seasoning too for a flavor match made in heaven) and you’ve got a kid-approved, guest-friendly meal that practically shouts “holiday weekend.” Whether you're gathering with friends for fireworks or just keeping things low-key with the family, this is a crowd-pleasing, all-American dinner you’ll want to bring back all season long.

Enjoy!




What Ingredients do I need?


Meat
  • Ground beef
  • Bacon

Dairy
  • Sharp cheddar cheese slices
  • Sour cream

Pantry & Seasonings
  • Ranch seasoning mix
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise

Produce (optional)
  • Lettuce 
  • Tomatoes

Bakery
  • Hamburger buns



Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

  • Ground beefGround turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat
  • Sour cream → Plain Greek yogurt or mayo

  • Cheddar cheese slices → Colby Jack, American, pepper jack, or provolone

  • Bacon → Turkey bacon, pancetta, or crispy fried onions for a vegetarian crunch

  • Hamburger buns → Brioche buns, sandwich rolls, lettuce wraps, or gluten-free buns

  • Ketchup/Mustard/Mayo → BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or chipotle aioli



Variations
  • Spicy Ranch Burgers – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Swap cheddar for pepper jack for an extra kick.

  • BBQ Ranch Burgers – Mix a tablespoon of BBQ sauce into the beef and top with crispy onions instead of bacon. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the bun.

  • Ranch Turkey Burgers – Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. Add a splash of Worcestershire or a bit of grated onion to keep them juicy.

  • Southwest Style – Add a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika to the burger mix. Top with avocado slices and a spoonful of salsa or chipotle mayo.

  • Blue Ranch Burgers – Skip the cheddar and add blue cheese crumbles after cooking. Serve with caramelized onions for a gourmet twist.

  • Slider Style – Form into smaller patties and serve on mini buns—great for parties, kids, or appetizer-style serving.





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gently mix the beef, sour cream, and ranch seasoning just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough burgers.
  • Use an Indent for Even Cooking: Press a shallow thumbprint in the center of each patty before cooking—this prevents them from puffing up in the middle and ensures even grilling.
  • Toast Those Buns:  A quick toast on the grill or in a skillet keeps the buns from getting soggy and adds that satisfying crunch.





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Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls – Classic Comfort with a Fresh Twist

All the burger joy—none of the bun drama.



Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls – Classic Comfort with a Fresh Twist 


Some nights, you just need a cheeseburger—but not necessarily the heaviness that comes with it. That’s where these Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls come in. They’ve become one of my favorite go-to dinners when I’m craving something hearty, nostalgic, and full of flavor, but still want to keep things light and fresh. Think seasoned lean ground beef, crisp romaine, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy baby pickles, sharp cheddar, and just the right hit of red onion. And let’s not forget the special sauce—tangy, creamy, and completely addictive. It’s everything you love about a cheeseburger, all layered up in one satisfying bowl.

All the burger joy—none of the bun drama. That’s the motto around here when these bowls hit the table. They're super quick to throw together (especially on busy weeknights) and easy to make your own. I’ve tried them with turkey, added avocado, even swapped the cheddar for pepper jack when I wanted a little kick. No matter how you build it, this bowl delivers big comfort with a fresh twist—and honestly, it just might become your new favorite way to do burger night.

Enjoy!






What Ingredients do I need?

Before you dive into making these delicious Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls, here's a handy shopping list to get you started. I've organized everything by category to make your grocery run a breeze:

Produce

  • Yellow onion
  • Romaine lettuce
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Baby dill pickles
  • Red onion (for topping)

Meat

  • Lean ground beef

Dairy

  • Shredded cheddar cheese

Pantry Staples

  • Canola oil
  • Ketchup
  • Mayo
  • Mustard
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt




Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowl recipe is how flexible it is. If you're missing an ingredient or want to make a swap to suit your tastes, no worries! Here are a few simple substitutions you can try:

Substitutions

  • Meat:  Try ground turkey or chicken – For a leaner option or Plant-based ground "beef" – If you're going for a vegetarian or vegan version.
  • Cheese:  Pepper jack – For a little extra spice.  Mozzarella – For a milder, gooey texture.  Dairy-free cheese – If you’re following a dairy-free diet.
  • Sauce:  Greek yogurt – In place of mayo for a creamier, tangier sauce.  BBQ sauce – Swap out ketchup and mustard for a smoky, sweet flavor.  Hot sauce – Add a kick to the sauce if you like things spicy!
  • Veggies:  Spinach or mixed greens – If you're out of romaine or want a different leafy base.  Cucumbers – For an extra crunch instead of pickles.  Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats for an extra satisfying touch.


Variations

While this Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowl is already packed with flavor, there are plenty of ways to change it up and make it your own. Here are a few variations to try depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry:

  • Tex-Mex Cheeseburger Bowl:  Swap the romaine lettuce for shredded iceberg for extra crunch. Add black beans, corn, and a dollop of sour cream for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with a sprinkle of jalapeños or guacamole for added flavor.
  • BBQ Cheeseburger Bowl:  Replace the special sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor. Add a handful of crispy fried onions or bacon bits for some extra texture and indulgence. Throw in some grilled corn or a few slices of avocado to round out the bowl.





Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Don’t Overcook the Meat:  It's important to avoid overcooking the ground beef. Overcooking can make it dry and tough, so be sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink, but still juicy. Keep an eye on it and break it up as it cooks, making sure it stays tender and flavorful.
  • Season Your Meat Well:  Make sure to season the ground beef with enough salt and pepper as it cooks. The seasoning will bring out the flavor and make your bowls extra tasty. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for a little extra depth of flavor.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly:  These bowls are perfect for meal prepping! You can cook the ground beef and sauce in advance, then portion everything into containers. When you're ready to eat, just top with fresh lettuce, veggies, and your special sauce. Keeping the lettuce and sauce separate will ensure everything stays crisp and fresh. It’s a great way to have healthy lunches or dinners ready for the week!




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Guilt-Free Cheeseburger Bowls


serves 4


1 lb lean ground beef
1 Tablespoon canola oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 small yellow onion, small dice
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
12 baby dill pickles
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Thinly sliced red onion (for topping)
1 Tablespoon ketchup
2 Tablespoons mayo
1 1/2 teaspoons mustard
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the canola oil and allow it to heat up. Add the ground beef and salt, then cook for 7-9 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until no longer pink.

While the beef cooks, divide the romaine lettuce among 4 bowls. Top each with a quarter of the cherry tomatoes, pickles, shredded cheddar, and cooked beef mixture. Add a few red onion slices if using.

In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, mayo, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Drizzle the special sauce over the bowls and serve!



adapted from WW Easy Everyday Cooking

























Saturday, June 26, 2021

4th of July Bash on the Grill: Mushroom Stuffed Cheeseburgers

Juicy cheeseburgers stuffed with jazzed up mushrooms are on the grill for the 4th of July celebration!  Made with your choice of meat and topped just the way you like it!



Mushroom Stuffed Cheeseburgers


Time to warm up that grill and get to cooking some burgers for the 4th of July!  After a year in lock-down we are so ready to celebrate!  We go for the "All American" menu for our 4th of July bash.  First up is a juicy hamburger.  This one is special because it's has the addition of cheese and mushroom.  But the best part is they are not on it....they are inside it!  Yes, that's right a burger stuffed with jazzed up mushrooms and cheese.  Doesn't get much better than this.

With a little pre-prep of the mushrooms these burgers will be on your table in no time.  Another plus is that you can pick your meat of choice.  We made both beef and turkey burgers.  Toppings can be anything you choose.  We had a standard burger topping bar or lettuce, onion, tomatoes, mayo and mustard.  One bite and the stuffing flavors explode in your mouth!  This is one great burger.



What Ingredients do I need?

  • ground beef sirloin (10%) or ground chicken or turkey
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • ground black pepper
  • provolone cheese
  • baby bella mushrooms
  • garlic
  • white wine
  • butter
  • olive oil
  • Hamburger buns
  • Toppings: lettuce, onion, tomato


Substitutions and Variation

  • Choose a different ground meat, turkey and chicken are great options
  • Choose a different cheese, cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss
  • Don't like mushrooms, leave them out!
  • Don't want wine in the mushrooms? leave it out
  • Kaiser rolls make great buns
  • Brioche buns are a treat
  • Flavor the meat with steak sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce
  • Make this Asian by adding soy sauce and Hosin

Kitchen Tips and Notes

  • Great for making ahead.  Stuff the burgers early in the day and refrigerate until time to grill
  • Kids will love a stuffed cheeseburger!
  • I always form the bottom patty a little larger and then pinch the top to the sides to cover all the stuffing 
  • I always use 10% fat ground sirloin for the flavor.  If you like a juicier burger go for 15 - 20% ground chuck



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More burgers to choose from:

Grilled Ranch Chicken Burgers

Grilled Santa Fe Burgers

Blue Cheese Stuffed Burgers

The Best Stuffed Grilled Cheeseburgers

Butter Burgers





Mushroom Stuffed Cheeseburgers



serves 4

1 lb. ground beef sirloin (10%) or ground chicken or turkey
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 slices provolone cheese, halved
1 cup baby bella mushrooms, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
2 Tablespoons white wine
1 Tablespoon butter
1 Tablespoon olive oil
4 Hamburger buns
Toppings:  lettuce, onion, tomato

In a large skillet, medium high heat, add butter and olive oil.  When hot add the mushrooms.  Cook about 1 minutes until starting to brown and wilt.  Add in minced garlic and the wine.  Continue to cook until mushrooms are brown and tender.  Remove from the pan.  

In a large bowl, combine beef, Worcestershire sauce and pepper, very lightly mixing to combine.  Divide the mixture in half and take one half, forming 4 thin patties.  Top 2 of the patties with 1/2 slice of cheese and 1/2 of the cooked mushrooms.  Top with the other two remaining patties and press edges to seal and make sure that the stuffing is all inside.  Repeat with the remaining half of the ground beef to make two more burgers.  

Grill burgers, uncovered, over medium-high heat 5-6 minutes on each side or until a thermometer inserted in meat portion reads 160 degrees.  Toast your hamburgers buns on the grill and serve.









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