The Ultimate Lamb Burger Recipe: Flavorful Mediterranean Twist
Savor herb-infused patties with a zesty, creamy sauce that transforms weeknight dinners.
The Ultimate Lamb Burger Recipe
Switch up your burger routine with lamb burgers—thick, juicy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Spiced with cumin, smoked paprika, fragrant oregano, and a subtle touch of cinnamon, these burgers are piled high with classic toppings and paired with a creamy, tangy feta sauce. Whether on the grill or the stovetop, lamb burgers bring a gourmet twist to any cookout or family dinner.
Why Lamb Burgers?
Lamb burgers offer a richer, bolder flavor than standard beef burgers. The robust taste of ground lamb stands up beautifully to a chorus of Mediterranean spices and creamy Greek-inspired condiments. If you’re looking for a way to impress guests—or just treat yourself to something unexpected—lamb burgers are the answer. Even those skeptical about lamb are surprised by how delicious and approachable these burgers are when seasoned and cooked properly.
- Flavorful alternative: Lamb provides deeper, more complex flavors than beef.
- Perfect for grilling season: Lamb burgers hold up beautifully on the grill.
- Customizable: Swap in new toppings and sauces for endless variety.
Key Ingredients
Each component of this recipe is carefully selected to highlight Mediterranean flavors and ensure a juicy, satisfying burger.
Burger Patty
- Ground lamb: Fresh lamb is ideal, but ground lamb from the supermarket works well.
- Garlic: Grated for even distribution of flavor.
- Salt, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano: This quartet delivers deep seasoning with an aromatic kick.
- Black pepper and ground cinnamon: Pepper for mild heat; cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and intrigue.
- Olive oil: Enriches the lamb and helps patties sear without sticking.
Feta Sauce
- Greek yogurt: Thick, tangy base for a cooling contrast to the spices.
- Cucumber: Grated and squeezed dry for freshness.
- Feta cheese: Crumbled for salty, creamy bites throughout the sauce.
- Mint: Adds brightness and classic Greek flavor.
- Salt (optional): Adjusts the seasoning if needed.
Burger Assembly
- Hamburger buns: Toasted for structure and texture.
- Fresh toppings: Slices of tomato, arugula for peppery crunch, thin slices of red onion for bite, pepperoncini peppers for zing, cubes of feta, and kalamata olives for briny depth.
How to Make Delicious Lamb Burgers: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Patties
Combine ground lamb, grated garlic, salt, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cinnamon, pepper, and half the olive oil in a large bowl. Gently mix until the seasonings are distributed, being careful not to overwork the mixture—this ensures juicy, tender patties. Divide into four 8-ounce portions. Form each loosely into a ball, then gently press into 1-inch-thick patties.
Step 2: Prepare the Feta Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (squeezed dry), crumbled feta, chopped mint, and a pinch of salt if needed. Blend well until creamy and set aside in the refrigerator while you cook the burgers. The sauce can be made a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to meld.
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Step 3: Cook the Patties
Stovetop Cooking: Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Add the rest of the olive oil, swirl to coat, and place the patties in the hot skillet. Cook 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook another 3 minutes or until the internal temperature is about 135°F for medium. Let the burgers rest 5 minutes before assembling.
Grilling Option: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Brush patties with olive oil, grill for 3-4 minutes per side, and rest before serving. Use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety and the desired doneness.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While burgers rest, toast buns cut-side down in a dry skillet, on the grill, or in the oven for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until lightly golden. This adds texture and prevents soggy buns from juicy toppings.
Step 5: Assemble Your Lamb Burgers
- Spread a generous layer of feta sauce on the bottom bun.
- Place the lamb patty on top.
- Add a tomato slice, a handful of arugula, thin red onion slices, a pepperoncini pepper, a cube of feta, and a few olives.
- Spread more feta sauce on the top bun, if you like, then cap your burger and serve immediately.
Variation and Substitution Ideas
- No lamb? Use ground beef, ground bison, or a 50:50 mix of lamb and beef for milder flavor. The spices work well with any juicy red meat.
- Add grilled vegetables: Roasted peppers, grilled eggplant, or zucchini make excellent Mediterranean toppings.
- Try different greens: Swap arugula for baby spinach or romaine for milder crunch.
- Dairy-free sauce: Substitute coconut yogurt and a dairy-free feta alternative as needed.
Ingredient Table
| Component | Ingredients & Quantities |
|---|---|
| Burger Patties | 2 lb. ground lamb, 2 cloves garlic (grated), 2½ tsp salt, 2 tsp cumin, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 2 tsp dried oregano, 1/8 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup olive oil (divided) |
| Feta Sauce | 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup grated, peeled cucumber (squeezed dry), 1/4 cup crumbled feta, 2 Tbsp fresh mint, 1/4 tsp salt (optional) |
| Buns & Toppings | 4 burger buns, 4 tomato slices, 2 cups arugula, 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced), 4 pepperoncini, 4 cubes feta, 4 kalamata olives |
What to Serve with Lamb Burgers
Lamb burgers pair well with fresh, vibrant sides. Consider:
- Greek salad: Tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, red onion, and a lemon-oregano vinaigrette.
- Roasted vegetables: Eggplant, zucchini, and peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs.
- Grilled potatoes: Slices tossed in oil, salt, and rosemary, grilled until crisp.
- Chilled tabbouleh salad: Bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, lemon, tomatoes, and onion make a refreshing side.
- Simple chips or fries: For a more traditional burger night touch.
Tips for Perfect Lamb Burgers Every Time
- Be gentle: When mixing lamb with the spices and forming patties, do not compress tightly—this preserves tenderness and keeps burgers juicy.
- Watch the temperature: Overcooked lamb dries out. Remove patties from the heat at 135°F for medium; they’ll continue to cook as they rest.
- Rest before serving: Allow a few minutes for juices to redistribute throughout the patty.
- Grill or stovetop: Both cooking methods yield great results—choose based on your equipment or the weather.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigerate cooked patties: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Reheat gently: Use a 300°F oven, covered, to prevent drying out. Microwave with a damp paper towel in short bursts for convenience.
- Feta sauce: Keeps for 2 days in the fridge—stir before spreading.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What’s a good substitute for ground lamb?
Ground beef, ground bison, or a mix of ground beef and lamb work beautifully with this recipe’s spices.
Can I make lamb burgers in advance?
Absolutely. Form the patties and refrigerate, covered, for up to 24 hours before cooking. The feta sauce can also be made a day ahead.
Can I freeze lamb burger patties?
Yes, shape the raw patties, freeze with parchment between them, and store airtight. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
How do I know when lamb burgers are done?
Use a meat thermometer. For medium doneness, lamb should reach 135°F internally. Cook to your preferred level of doneness, keeping food safety in mind.
Are lamb burgers healthy?
Lamb is rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins. Pairing with fresh veggies and yogurt sauce adds nutrients, making this a balanced meal.
Serving & Presentation Tips
- Stack burgers high with contrasting colors for visual impact—deep red tomatoes, green arugula, creamy feta, and olives create restaurant-quality appeal.
- Serve with a lemon wedge for a squeeze of acidity.
- Offer extra feta sauce as a dip for fries or veggies.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for more heat.
- Try different bread: Serve burgers in pita pockets, ciabatta, or on lettuce wraps for gluten-free options.
- Make mini sliders: Shape into smaller patties and serve on slider buns for parties.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
| Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 600 | 35 | 37 | 28 |
*Values may vary based on toppings and bun selection.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Lamb Burger Recipe
From the fragrant spices and creamy feta sauce to the hearty, perfectly cooked patties, this lamb burger recipe is a standout for family dinners and summer cookouts alike. Accessible ingredients and easy techniques mean any home cook can create a Mediterranean-inspired burger worth remembering. Try it today, and let the flavors transport you to the sun-soaked shores of Greece—no passport required.
References
- https://www.tastingtable.com/743937/best-lamb-burger-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a39375554/lamb-burger-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39894868/ground-lamb-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39094076/lamb-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g40104401/burger-recipes/
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