Spinach Feta Turkey Burger Bowls

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooked quinoa or rice, for serving (about 2 cups cooked)
• Optional toppings: Tzatziki sauce, Kalamata olives, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, lemon wedges

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat your grill or a large skillet to medium heat.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, spinach, feta cheese, red onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Gently mix all ingredients together until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

4. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.

5. If grilling, grill the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using a skillet, cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping carefully.

6. While the burgers are cooking, prepare your quinoa or rice according to package directions.

7. Assemble your bowls by placing cooked quinoa or rice in the bottom.

8. Top with a spinach feta turkey burger.

9. Add your desired toppings, such as tzatziki sauce, Kalamata olives, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love These Bowls

These Spinach Feta Turkey Burger Bowls are a healthy, flavorful, and customizable meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for lunch.

They offer a delicious twist on traditional burgers, packing in extra nutrients from spinach and feta cheese, while keeping things lean with ground turkey.

### A Healthier Burger Option

These bowls are a fantastic alternative to beef burgers.

Ground turkey is lower in fat and calories, making it a lighter choice.

Adding spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also keeps the burgers moist and flavorful.

### Bursting with Flavor

The combination of spinach and feta creates a Mediterranean-inspired taste that’s both savory and refreshing.

The oregano, garlic, and red onion add depth of flavor to the turkey patties.

Tzatziki sauce and Kalamata olives are classic Greek additions that complement the burger perfectly.

### Customizable to Your Taste

These bowls are incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs.

Don’t like feta? Try goat cheese or parmesan.

Prefer brown rice to quinoa? Go for it!

You can also experiment with different toppings to create your own unique burger bowl.

Tips for Perfect Turkey Burgers

Making turkey burgers can be a bit trickier than beef burgers, as turkey is leaner and can dry out easily.

Here are some tips to ensure your turkey burgers are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

### Don’t Overmix the Meat

Overmixing ground turkey can result in tough, dry burgers.

Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.

Use your hands lightly to incorporate everything.

### Keep the Burgers Moist

Adding spinach, feta cheese, and an egg helps keep the burgers moist.

You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil or yogurt to the mixture.

Avoid using extra-lean ground turkey, as it tends to dry out more easily.

### Cook to the Right Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the burgers are cooked through.

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Avoid overcooking the burgers, as they will become dry and tough.

Variations and Additions

One of the best things about these Spinach Feta Turkey Burger Bowls is their versatility.

Here are some variations and additions to try:

### Different Cheese Options

While feta cheese is a classic pairing with spinach and turkey, you can experiment with other cheeses as well.

Goat cheese adds a tangy and creamy flavor.

Parmesan cheese offers a salty and nutty taste.

You can even use shredded mozzarella or provolone for a more traditional burger experience.

### Adding More Veggies

Boost the nutritional value of your bowls by adding more vegetables.

Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added to the burger mixture.

Roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, make a great addition to the bowls.

Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for an intense flavor.

### Spice it Up

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the burger mixture.

You can also use a spicy seasoning blend, such as Cajun seasoning or chili powder.

A drizzle of hot sauce on top of the finished bowls adds a nice kick.

Perfect Pairings for Burger Bowls

Complete your meal with these delicious side dishes and beverages.

These pairings will enhance the overall dining experience.

### Side Salads

A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese is a refreshing accompaniment.

A mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a contrast to the richness of the burger bowls.

Consider a cucumber and dill salad for a refreshing and light addition.

### Refreshing Drinks

Iced tea or lemonade are classic summertime drinks that pair well with burger bowls.

A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors of the feta and spinach.

Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is a light and refreshing option.

### Simple Sides

Roasted potatoes are a hearty and satisfying side dish.

Grilled corn on the cob adds a touch of sweetness.

Steamed green beans with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese are a simple and healthy option.

Meal Prep and Storage

These Spinach Feta Turkey Burger Bowls are perfect for meal prepping.

Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.

### Preparing Ahead

The burger patties can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Cook the quinoa or rice in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Chop the vegetables and prepare the toppings ahead of time for easy assembly.

### Storage Instructions

Store the cooked burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Cooked quinoa or rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Assemble the bowls just before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.

### Reheating Instructions

Reheat the burger patties in the microwave, oven, or skillet until warmed through.

Reheat the quinoa or rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQ

What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese, parmesan cheese, or even a dairy-free feta alternative.

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute for ground turkey in this recipe. The cooking time may be slightly different.

Can I make these bowls vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make these bowls vegetarian by using a plant-based ground meat alternative. Look for a variety that mimics the texture of ground turkey.

How do I prevent the turkey burgers from drying out?

Be sure not to overmix the meat. Also, ensure that the burgers are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and not overcooked.

Can I freeze these turkey burgers?

Yes, you can freeze cooked turkey burgers. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.