Turkey and Spinach Burger with Herb Cheese – A Lighter, Flavorful Twist on the Classic

If you love burgers but want something lighter without sacrificing flavor, this Turkey and Spinach Burger with Herb Cheese is the perfect choice. Juicy ground turkey is mixed with fresh spinach, onion, and garlic for a nutrient-packed patty, then topped with melty provolone and a creamy herb mayo that takes it over the top.

Served on a toasted bun, these burgers are a refreshing and healthier alternative to beef, making them great for weeknight dinners or backyard cookouts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A healthier burger option packed with lean protein and spinach
Herb mayo adds a gourmet touch with minimal effort
Easy to customize with different cheeses, herbs, or toppings
Perfect for grilling, stovetop cooking, or even meal prep

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Ground turkey – lean protein base, juicy and tender.
  • Breadcrumbs & egg – bind the patties together.
  • Onion & garlic – build flavor right into the meat.
  • Spinach – adds nutrients and moisture.
  • Provolone cheese – creamy, melty, and mild.
  • Buns – brioche or sesame for the perfect carrier.
  • Herb mayo – mayonnaise mixed with parsley and chives for fresh flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Make the patties – In a large bowl, mix ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 patties.
  2. Cook spinach – Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté spinach until just wilted, then set aside.
  3. Cook patties – In the same skillet (or on a grill), cook patties over medium heat, about 5–6 minutes per side, until fully cooked (165°F / 74°C internal temp).
  4. Melt cheese – Place a slice of provolone on each patty during the last minute of cooking; cover skillet to melt.
  5. Mix herb mayo – In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with fresh parsley and chives.
  6. Assemble burgers – Toast buns, spread herb mayo on each, layer sautéed spinach, then the turkey patty with melted cheese.
  7. Serve hot – Add extra toppings if desired and enjoy!

Chef Tips & Variations

  • Cheese swap: Try Swiss, gouda, or mozzarella instead of provolone.
  • Herb options: Dill, basil, or tarragon work well in the mayo.
  • Grill it: For a smoky flavor, cook these burgers on the grill instead of the stovetop.
  • Meal prep: Form patties ahead and freeze for easy weeknight cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your turkey burgers with:

  • Sweet potato fries or classic oven-baked fries
  • A crisp green salad or coleslaw
  • Grilled vegetables for a well-rounded, balanced meal
  • Pickles, caramelized onions, or avocado for added flavor and texture

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & versatile: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts.

Juicy and flavorful: Ground turkey stays moist with the spinach and herbs.

Balanced nutrition: Lean protein, greens, and minimal added fat make it healthier than a traditional beef burger.

Customizable: Easy to swap cheeses, buns, or add extra toppings.

Turkey and Spinach Burger with Herb Cheese

Turkey and Spinach Burger with Herb Cheese

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

Approximately 350 per serving

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 .5 lbs ground turkey

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 4 oz baby spinach

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 4 burger buns, brioche or sesame

  • 4 slices provolone cheese

  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, chives)

  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise

Directions

  • In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  • Form the mixture into 4 patties.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Cook patties for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and browned.
  • While the patties are cooking, sauté the spinach in a separate pan until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
  • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with chopped herbs.
  • During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of provolone cheese and allow it to melt.
  • Toast the burger buns lightly.
  • Spread herb mayonnaise on both halves of the buns.
  • Place a bed of sautéed spinach on the bottom bun, then top with a turkey patty and the top bun.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey.
  • Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground turkey mixture for extra flavor.
  • Use different cheese such as mozzarella or gruyere.