When you’re craving something hearty and satisfying but want a twist on the traditional backyard burger, Greek Stuffed Feta Burgers with Tzatziki step in to elevate the experience. Bursting with Mediterranean flavor, these burgers are a delicious fusion of juicy, seasoned ground meat stuffed with creamy, tangy feta cheese and crowned with cool, garlicky tzatziki sauce. It’s a perfect marriage of comfort food and global cuisine—rustic, rich, and refreshingly light at the same time.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors in summer or pan-searing in the kitchen for a cozy dinner, these burgers deliver bold flavor, vibrant textures, and a touch of Greek sunshine in every bite. Let’s explore what makes these burgers unforgettable—and how you can master them at home.
What Makes a Greek Burger Different?
A traditional Greek burger, or biftekia, takes inspiration from the classic Mediterranean palate: herbs like oregano and parsley, aromatics like garlic and onion, and the iconic brininess of feta cheese. But stuffing the burger with feta gives it an unexpected creamy surprise that melts beautifully into the center of the patty. Paired with tzatziki—Greece’s beloved yogurt-cucumber sauce—the burger becomes an indulgent yet balanced meal.
The result? A bite that’s:
- Juicy from the ground meat and olive oil
- Savory from garlic, onion, and herbs
- Tangy and creamy from the warm, melted feta center
- Cool and refreshing thanks to the tzatziki topping
🧂 Ingredients Spotlight
Here’s a breakdown of the key components that give this burger its authentic Greek flavor:
1. Ground Lamb or Beef (or both)
Lamb adds traditional Greek flavor, while beef keeps the taste familiar. You can also mix the two for a perfectly balanced blend of richness and heartiness.
2. Crumbled Feta Cheese
The star of the show. Feta’s salty, tangy profile adds complexity and richness when stuffed inside the burger.
3. Fresh Herbs and Spices
Oregano, parsley, mint, and sometimes dill give the burger its signature Mediterranean flair. Garlic and red onion add depth.
4. Tzatziki Sauce
A creamy mix of Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill—tzatziki adds cooling contrast to the savory burger.
5. Burger Buns or Pita Bread
Soft brioche buns are delicious, but pita or flatbread gives it an authentic Greek twist.
6. Toppings
Tomato slices, red onion rings, arugula, or pickled vegetables work beautifully here. Keep it fresh and crisp.
🔥 How to Make Greek Stuffed Feta Burgers with Tzatziki
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef (or a 50/50 mix)
- ½ small red onion, finely grated or minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for warmth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (for stuffing)
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated cucumber (squeezed to remove water)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
- Salt to taste
Extras:
- 4 burger buns or pitas
- Sliced tomatoes
- Arugula or lettuce
- Sliced red onion
- Extra crumbled feta for topping (optional)
🧑🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Tzatziki
In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and chopped dill or mint. Season with salt and stir well. Chill in the fridge for at least 15–30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Burger Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the ground meat with onion, garlic, herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix just until combined—don’t overwork it.
Step 3: Form and Stuff the Patties
Divide the meat into 8 equal portions. Flatten each into a thin patty. Place about a tablespoon of crumbled feta in the center of 4 patties, then top with the remaining 4 and seal the edges well. Gently press to form thick, sealed burgers.
Step 4: Cook the Burgers
Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the burgers with olive oil. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness (internal temp should reach 160°F/71°C for lamb/beef).
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Toast the buns or warm your pitas. Spread tzatziki on the bottom half, add the burger patty, then top with arugula, tomato, onion, and more tzatziki or feta if desired.
🥗 What to Serve With Greek Burgers
These burgers are rich and flavorful, so keep the sides fresh and light:
- Greek salad with cucumber, tomato, kalamata olives, and vinaigrette
- Oven-roasted lemon potatoes or sweet potato fries
- Orzo salad with feta and herbs
- Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant
- Pickled red onions or cucumbers for tangy crunch
🧊 Tips for Success
- Use fresh feta: Good-quality Greek feta melts into the burger for a creamy, rich center.
- Don’t skip the chilling: Tzatziki tastes better once it sits, and cold tzatziki contrasts beautifully with the hot burger.
- Seal the patties well: This keeps the cheese inside as it cooks and prevents leaks.
- Avoid overcooking: Keep your burgers juicy by cooking just to doneness and no more.
🔄 Variations to Try
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a slice of pickled jalapeño inside.
- Veggie version: Use grilled portobello mushrooms or a chickpea patty and still stuff with feta.
- Keto-friendly: Skip the bun and serve with lettuce wraps or over a Greek salad bowl.
- Mini versions: Make stuffed slider patties for party-friendly Greek sliders.
💡 Nutritional Benefits
While burgers are often seen as indulgent, these feta-stuffed Greek-style versions offer surprising nutritional upsides:
- Protein-rich: From the lamb/beef and Greek yogurt
- Calcium and healthy fats: Thanks to feta and olive oil
- Probiotics: Found in live-culture Greek yogurt tzatziki
- Fresh herbs and vegetables: Add fiber, antioxidants, and flavor
By controlling your ingredients and avoiding excess processing, you can enjoy a healthier burger without compromising on taste.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Greek Stuffed Feta Burgers with Tzatziki are everything a great burger should be: juicy, flavorful, and satisfying—but with a Mediterranean twist that sets them apart from the usual. Whether you’re a grill master or a weeknight dinner warrior, these burgers bring a taste of Greece straight to your table.
They’re perfect for summer cookouts, casual dinner parties, or anytime you want to wow your family with something a little different yet deeply comforting. One bite and you’ll be transported to a seaside taverna, sun on your face, breeze in your hair, and tzatziki on your lips.