If you’re a burger enthusiast like me, always on the hunt for a recipe that truly stands out, then look no further. This Greek-inspired Feta Burger with Tzatziki is a game-changer, offering a vibrant fusion of traditional Greek flavors packed into every juicy bite. Forget your average burger; this recipe elevates the classic to a gourmet experience, perfectly marrying savory beef with tangy feta and a cool, refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked beef patty, richly flavored with crumbled feta cheese, finely diced red onion, and sweet roasted red peppers. Aromatic Greek herbs like oregano and fresh parsley infuse the meat with an irresistible Mediterranean essence, creating a burger that’s anything but ordinary. While these burgers cook wonderfully under the broiler for convenience, they truly shine when grilled outdoors, especially when the sun is out, adding that smoky char we all love.

As summer approaches and holidays like Labor Day beckon for backyard barbecues, this Feta Burger recipe is an absolute must-add to your menu. It’s a delightful departure from standard burger fare, promising to impress your guests and satisfy even the most discerning palates. The secret to its undeniable charm lies in the harmonious blend of Greek ingredients that permeate every layer of this magnificent burger.

What I adore most about this recipe is the symphony of Greek flavors woven throughout. The beef patties themselves are a testament to this, boasting the salty tang of feta, the subtle bite of red onion, and the sweet earthiness of roasted red peppers, all brightened by fragrant oregano and fresh parsley. But the experience doesn’t stop there. Each burger is generously crowned with a drizzle of fresh, creamy, and slightly tart tzatziki sauce. This cool cucumber-yogurt topping provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich, savory burger, making it one of my all-time favorite burger enhancements.

My passion for Greek cuisine runs deep, and I’ve explored various Mediterranean twists on the humble burger. If you enjoy this Greek Feta Burger, you might also love my Tex Mex Burger, Mediterranean Burger, Easy Greek Burger, and even my Greek Chicken Burger. For a complete and effortless meal, I often serve these delicious feta burgers alongside a quick and refreshing Greek salad, such as my Village Greek Salad or a hearty Greek Chickpea Salad. These pairings create a balanced and incredibly satisfying Mediterranean feast.

Essential Ingredients for Your Greek Feta Burgers

Crafting the perfect Feta Burger starts with selecting high-quality ingredients that bring out the best in Mediterranean cuisine. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create these irresistible patties:

• Ground Beef: I recommend using 2 pounds of 80/20 ground beef. This fat-to-lean ratio is ideal for burgers, ensuring they remain wonderfully juicy and flavorful without drying out during cooking. This quantity yields four generously sized burgers. For a different twist, you could also make these burgers using ground lamb, which pairs exceptionally well with Greek flavors.
• Bell Peppers: To add a touch of sweetness and depth to the patties, I incorporate 1/4 cup of jarred roasted red peppers, finely chopped, directly into the burger mix. These are incredibly convenient and packed with flavor. For an extra layer of freshness and crunch on top, I also love to add some finely chopped raw red bell peppers as a garnish after cooking.
• Onion: Red onion is my preferred choice for the burger mixture due to its mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. You can finely mince about 2 tablespoons for the patties. Alternatively, yellow onion or shallots can be used. Fresh, thinly sliced red onion is also a fantastic topping, adding a crisp texture and zesty kick to the finished burger.
• Herbs: Authentic Greek flavors come alive with the right herbs. I use a combination of 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped, to deeply flavor the meat. These herbs impart an earthy, vibrant aroma that is unmistakably Mediterranean.
• Seasoning: To enhance the overall taste profile, I season my burgers with 1/2 teaspoon of paprika for a subtle smokiness, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for a savory depth, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. These seasonings create a well-rounded and delicious patty.
• Feta Cheese: A cornerstone of Greek cooking, 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese is mixed into the patties, providing a distinctive salty tang that makes these burgers truly special. The feta melts slightly as the burger cooks, infusing every mouthful with its creamy, briny flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra feta on top of the cooked burger for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal!
• Tzatziki Sauce: The crowning glory of this Greek feta burger is a generous drizzle of creamy tzatziki sauce. Its cool, refreshing, and slightly garlicky profile perfectly balances the rich burger, adding moisture and a burst of fresh flavor. You’ll want about 1 cup of tzatziki, divided for mixing and topping.
• Hamburger Buns: Choose your favorite hamburger buns. Toasted buns are highly recommended for extra texture and to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Optional Toppings: Beyond the tzatziki and extra feta, I love adding sliced red onion, fresh tomato slices, and crisp lettuce leaves to my burgers for texture and freshness.

For precise ingredient quantities and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card provided below.

Step 2: Form the Burgers. Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about 1-inch thick. A good tip for even cooking is to create a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This prevents the burgers from puffing up in the middle during cooking, ensuring a flat, even surface perfect for toppings. Set the formed patties aside.

Step 3: Cook Your Burgers to Perfection.

• Broiling (Indoor Method): Preheat your broiler to medium-high heat. Place the patties on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with foil (for easier cleanup). Grill the burgers until they are cooked through, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness and the thickness of the patties. Remember to flip them midway through cooking to ensure both sides achieve a beautiful crust and even cooking. The burgers are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) as measured with a meat thermometer.
• Grilling (Outdoor Method): For that classic smoky flavor, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the patties directly on the hot grates and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 160°F (71°C). Grilling adds an extra layer of flavor that truly complements the Greek seasonings.
• Pan-Frying (Stovetop Method): Heat a large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This method is great for achieving a good sear if grilling isn’t an option.

Step 4: Assemble Your Flavorful Feta Burgers. Once the burgers are cooked, it’s time to build your masterpiece. Start by laying the bottom half of a toasted hamburger bun onto a plate. Next, layer on your fresh toppings: crisp lettuce, thinly sliced ripe tomato, and fresh red onion slices. Place the freshly cooked, juicy Feta Burger patty on top of these vibrant greens. Generously spoon or drizzle the creamy tzatziki sauce over the burger. For an extra touch of Greek authenticity and flavor, sprinkle with additional crumbled feta cheese, finely minced red onion, and a touch more finely chopped red bell pepper.

Finally, crown your burger with the top bun and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich, authentic flavors of this Greek Feta Burger with Tzatziki!

Creative Variations and Customization for Your Greek Feta Burgers

One of the best things about homemade burgers is the endless possibilities for customization. While this Feta Burger recipe is spectacular as is, feel free to experiment with these ideas to make it uniquely yours:

• Add More Vegetables to the Mix: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by finely dicing and adding more vegetables directly into the beef mixture. Beyond red peppers and onions, consider zucchini, carrots, or even finely chopped spinach. Ensure they are very finely diced so they blend seamlessly into the patty.
• Different Greens for Topping: While classic lettuce is great, try topping your burgers with peppery arugula for a sophisticated bite, tender kale for added nutrition, or fresh romaine for extra crunch.
• Embrace Pickled Vegetables: The tangy, briny flavor of pickled vegetables offers a wonderful contrast to the rich burger. My Pickled Red Onions or a mix of Pickled Vegetables would be fantastic choices, adding a bright, acidic counterpoint.
• Alternate Cheeses: If you’re a cheese lover looking for variety, while feta is traditional, you could substitute it with creamy goat cheese for a milder tang or pungent blue cheese for a bolder flavor profile within the patty.
• Olives for an Extra Mediterranean Kick: For an even deeper Mediterranean flavor, finely chop some Kalamata olives or green olives and mix them into the beef mixture. Their salty, briny notes will beautifully complement the feta and herbs.
• Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or a dash of hot sauce to your tzatziki.
• Bun Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, serve your Feta Burger in a lettuce wrap or on a toasted pita bread instead of a traditional bun.