Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Spinach Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce: A Mediterranean Twist on the Classic Burger

When you think of burgers, your mind likely jumps to a juicy patty topped with cheddar and ketchup—but what if we took that comfort food favorite and infused it with bold Mediterranean flavor? Introducing these Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Spinach Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce—a vibrant, fresh, and savory upgrade to your usual burger night that will make your taste buds dance.

These burgers are perfect for home cooks who want something easy but elevated. They’re incredibly simple to make, come together with wholesome ingredients, and feel gourmet without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a summer cookout, a weeknight dinner, or a weekend indulgence, these burgers are a guaranteed hit with adults and adventurous kids alike.

What Makes These Burgers Special?

This recipe stands out thanks to its flavor-packed patty, which combines juicy ground beef with the saltiness of feta cheese, the tangy depth of sun-dried tomatoes, and a generous helping of fresh spinach. Unlike traditional burgers that rely on heavy sauces or cheese layers for flavor, this patty brings it all to the table.

Topped with crisp spinach, juicy tomato, thin-sliced shallot, and creamy tzatziki sauce, every bite is a delightful contrast of textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

This burger is also:

• High in protein

• Naturally low in carbs (without the bun)

• Easily adaptable for meal prep or customization

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Burger Patties:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 5 ounces fresh baby spinach leaves, chopped

• 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese

• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 teaspoon table salt

For Buns & Toppings:

• Sandwich buns (brioche or whole wheat work beautifully)

• Fresh baby spinach leaves

• Sliced tomato

• Sliced shallot

• Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Burger Patties

In a large bowl, combine all the patty ingredients: ground beef, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, sun-dried tomatoes, egg, and salt. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a fork until evenly combined.

Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, pressing them together firmly to help them hold their shape.

Refrigerate the patties for at least 1 hour. This helps them firm up and makes cooking easier.

2. Toast the Buns

While the patties chill, preheat a pan or grill to medium heat. Drizzle a little cooking oil on the cut side of your sandwich buns, and toast them face-down until golden brown—just a few minutes.

Transfer the buns to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.

3. Cook the Burger Patties

Increase heat to medium-high (or keep at medium for less smoke). Add a drizzle of oil to the pan or grill grates.

Cook the patties in batches, flipping occasionally, until charred on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), about 4–6 minutes per side depending on thickness.

If your pan gets dry, add a touch more oil between batches.

4. Assemble & Serve

Start with your toasted buns, then layer:

• A bed of baby spinach

• One burger patty

• Sliced tomato

• Sliced shallot

• A generous dollop of tzatziki sauce

Top with the bun and serve immediately!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl

• Cutting board and knife

• Measuring cups/spoons

• Frying pan or grill

• Spatula

• Food thermometer (recommended)

• Plate or tray for resting burgers

Recipe Tips & Substitutions

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for a leaner option. If using poultry, make sure internal temp reaches 165°F.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns or serve bun-less as lettuce wraps.

• Add Herbs: Want even more flavor? Add 1 teaspoon dried oregano or basil to the patty mix.

• Homemade Tzatziki: Mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and dill for a quick homemade version.

• Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Refrigerating the patties helps them stay together and cook evenly.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Keep toppings and buns separate for best texture.

Freeze: You can freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Reheat: Warm patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add fresh toppings before serving.

What to Serve With These Burgers

Side Ideas:

• Crispy sweet potato fries

• Mediterranean quinoa salad

• Cucumber-tomato salad

• Roasted lemon potatoes

Drink Pairings:

• Lemonade or cucumber water for a fresh, non-alcoholic pairing

• Dry rosé or a light lager to complement the herby and tangy notes

• Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino for a white wine that cuts through the richness of the feta and beef

FAQs

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes! You can form the patties and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance. They’re great for prepping the night before a party or busy weeknight.

Can I grill these burgers instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely. These patties hold up well on the grill. Just be sure to oil the grates and monitor closely to avoid flare-ups from the cheese or oil in the sun-dried tomatoes.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

They add a unique tangy-sweet flavor, but you can substitute with chopped olives, roasted red peppers, or even caramelized onions if needed.

Can I make these vegetarian?

This recipe is meat-based, but you can experiment with a lentil-walnut or black bean patty and add the same spinach, feta, and tomato mix-ins.

Is feta cheese the only option?

Not at all! Try goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shredded mozzarella if you want a milder taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a burger with a Mediterranean flair and a healthier spin, these Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Spinach Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce are a must-try. They’re flavorful, satisfying, and so easy to make that they might just become a regular on your weekly menu.

The combo of juicy beef, earthy spinach, briny feta, and cool tzatziki is unbeatable—and totally crave-worthy.

Let’s Spread the Flavor!

Loved this recipe? We’d love for you to share it with your friends, pin it to your favorite recipe board, or drop a comment with your own twist! And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more globally-inspired recipes, cooking tips, and delicious eats straight to your inbox.

Happy cooking—and even happier eating!