Turkey Spinach Feta Patties

This Mediterranean style dinner brings together tender ground turkey savory spinach and tangy feta into one satisfying protein packed meal you can cook in just minutes. It is a perfect make ahead option that fits beautifully into busy weeknights and healthy meal planning

I first made these patties for a weekend lunch and was surprised how much my kids loved them now they are a regular in our weekly rotation

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: lean and moist choose 93 percent lean for balance of flavor and texture
• Fresh spinach: chopped and lightly sautéed for vibrant color and extra nutrients make sure it is fully wilted to avoid excess moisture
• Feta cheese: creamy and salty it adds richness and Mediterranean character choose block feta in brine if available
• Red onion: adds subtle sharpness and crunch finely chop for even flavor
• Garlic: fresh and minced gives depth and aroma
• Fresh dill: bright and herby this gives the patties a distinctly Mediterranean lift
• Dried oregano: classic earthy note that enhances the feta and turkey
• Egg: acts as a binder to help the patties stay together use a large one
• Breadcrumbs: help hold everything together and add light texture use plain or panko
• Salt: essential to bring out all the flavors use sea salt if possible
• Black pepper: adds a touch of heat freshly ground is best
• Olive oil: used for cooking adds a fruity depth choose extra virgin for flavor

Step by Step Instructions

Sauté the Spinach:

Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat add the chopped spinach and cook for one to two minutes until just wilted stir constantly then set aside to cool fully before mixing

Mix the Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine the cooled spinach with ground turkey crumbled feta red onion minced garlic chopped dill dried oregano breadcrumbs the egg salt and pepper use a gentle folding motion to avoid compacting the mixture

Shape the Patties:

Divide the mixture into six equal portions then shape each into a patty about half an inch thick they should be firm but not packed too tightly

Cook the Patties:

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat add the patties in batches if needed cook each side for four to five minutes or until golden and the internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Rest and Serve:

Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for two minutes this allows juices to redistribute making them extra juicy

Save

I always look forward to the fresh dill in this recipe its aroma reminds me of my grandmother’s garden and brings a warm nostalgic flavor to the dish

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftover patties in an airtight container for up to four days Freeze cooked patties in a single layer then transfer to a sealed bag or container for up to two months reheat in skillet or oven for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground chicken works well in place of turkey for a similar flavor profile Use oat flour or almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten free option Try baby kale in place of spinach if you have it on hand

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dollop of tzatziki and a lemon wedge over a quinoa salad or tucked into warm pita with sliced cucumbers These patties also pair nicely with roasted vegetables or orzo for a complete meal

Save

Cultural Context

Mediterranean cuisine values fresh herbs simple proteins and vibrant dairy like feta this recipe draws from Greek influences combining everyday ingredients into something comforting yet elegant

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thawed frozen spinach works well. Just squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into the patties.

→ What’s the best way to cook these patties?

Pan-searing over medium heat gives the patties a golden crust while keeping them juicy inside. Be sure to cook to 165°F internal temperature.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Form the patties ahead and chill until ready to cook. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with these patties?

They pair well with quinoa, a Greek salad, or pita and tzatziki for a balanced Mediterranean meal.

→ How can I make this gluten-free?

Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or oat flour to keep the patties gluten-free while maintaining texture.

→ Can I use another type of ground meat?

Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute and works similarly in flavor and texture.