Greek Lamb Burger Recipe

The Juiciest Greek Lamb Burger Recipe for Summer Grilling

Succulent Greek lamb burgers bring Mediterranean flavors right to your dinner plate, offering a delightful twist on traditional patties.

These mouthwatering meat creations blend robust seasonings with tender ground lamb for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Fragrant herbs and classic Mediterranean spices enhance an ordinary burger into something extraordinary and memorable.

Rich, juicy textures complement the bold flavor profile that makes these burgers stand out from standard grilling fare.

The combination of carefully selected ingredients creates a harmonious blend that tantalizes taste buds and satisfies deep hunger.

Authentic techniques elevate this dish beyond simple meat preparation, turning it into a celebration of cultural cuisine.

You’ll find these burgers perfect for casual gatherings or sophisticated dinner events, promising to impress even discerning food enthusiasts.

What Makes Greek Lamb Burgers Stand Out

  • Burst with Mediterranean Flavors: Packed with aromatic herbs like mint, parsley, and oregano, these lamb burgers transport your taste buds straight to the sunny Greek islands with their vibrant, fresh seasonings.
  • Master Effortless Grilling Technique: The simple thumb depression method ensures perfectly flat burgers that cook evenly, making this recipe foolproof for both novice and experienced grillers who want restaurant-quality results at home.
  • Customize Your Culinary Adventure: With flexible serving options like buns or pita pockets and the ability to adjust spice levels, these lamb burgers offer a personalized dining experience that adapts to individual preferences and creativity.
  • Quick and Protein-Packed Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, these burgers deliver a protein-rich dinner that's both nutritious and indulgent, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients for Flavorful Lamb Burgers

Meat Ingredient:
  • Ground Lamb: Lean and flavorful meat with a rich, slightly gamey taste, best when freshly ground from a trusted butcher.
Aromatics and Herbs:
  • Grated Onion, Minced Garlic: Adds depth and subtle sweetness to the burger mixture, providing a classic Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Chopped Parsley, Chopped Mint: Fresh herbs that bring brightness and a classic Greek herbaceous note to the burger.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Dried Oregano, Ground Cumin, Paprika: Warm, earthy spices that create a traditional Greek seasoning blend with complex flavor.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Optional spice for those who enjoy a subtle heat kick.
  • Kosher Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the lamb.
Binding and Moisture:
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds moisture, helps bind the mixture, and contributes a rich, fruity undertone typical in Greek cuisine.
Serving Components:
  • Burger Buns, Pita Pockets: Soft bread options for serving the lamb burgers, allowing for traditional or modern presentation.

How to Grill or Pan-Fry Greek Burgers

Step 1: Prepare Lamb Mixture

Gather these ingredients in a large mixing bowl:
  • Ground lamb
  • Grated onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped parsley
  • Chopped mint
  • Dried oregano
  • Ground cumin
  • Paprika
  • Cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • Extra virgin olive oil

Blend all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 2: Shape Burger Patties

Divide the meat mixture into equal portions. Gently form each portion into smooth round balls, then press lightly to create flat patties. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent swelling during cooking. Place patties on a tray and refrigerate.

Step 3: Prepare Cooking Surface

Heat an outdoor grill or indoor griddle to medium temperature. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill Lamb Burgers

Place patties on the heated surface. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F for medium doneness. Adjust cooking time based on desired level of cooking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let burgers rest for 5-10 minutes to retain juiciness. Serve in warm pita pockets or burger buns with your favorite toppings.

Tip: Recommended toppings include tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and fresh herbs. 🥙🧀

Enjoy your delectable Greek Lamb Burgers! 😋

Tips for Juicy Patties with Big Flavor

  • Prevent Overworking Meat: Gently mix ingredients to keep lamb burgers tender and prevent tough, dense texture.
  • Create Perfect Patty Indentation: Press a shallow thumb indent in the center of each patty to prevent bulging and ensure even cooking.
  • Control Moisture Balance: Add grated onion and olive oil to maintain juiciness and prevent dry burgers.
  • Manage Grill Temperature: Use medium heat to cook lamb burgers evenly without burning the exterior.
  • Let Meat Rest Properly: Allow burgers to rest 5-10 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices and maintain maximum flavor and tenderness.

Storage Tips for Lamb Burger Leftovers

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover lamb burgers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
  • Wrap Individually: Place each burger in separate plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent flavor transfer.
  • Reheat Carefully: Warm burgers in a skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Add a small splash of olive oil to prevent drying. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, covered with foil to retain juiciness.

What Sides to Serve with Greek Lamb Burgers

  • Pair with Crisp Greek White Wine: Elevate your lamb burger experience with a chilled glass of Assyrtiko from Santorini. The wine's bright acidity and mineral notes cut through the rich, gamey lamb perfectly. Its zesty character complements the herbs and spices in the burger.
  • Match with Tangy Tzatziki Sauce: Create a flavor explosion by serving homemade tzatziki alongside your burger. The cool, creamy yogurt sauce with cucumber and garlic provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced meat. It adds a traditional Greek touch that enhances every bite.
  • Side with Mediterranean Salad: Complement the burger with a simple Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese. Dressed with olive oil and oregano, this light side dish balances the burger's richness and adds a fresh, vibrant element to the meal.
  • Pour Craft Beer with Herbal Notes: Choose a wheat beer or a hoppy pale ale with herbal undertones. These beers mirror the mint and parsley in the lamb burger, creating a harmonious flavor profile that highlights the Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

Greek Burger Variations to Spice It Up

  • Mediterranean Fusion Burger: Swap traditional buns with crispy grilled flatbread and top with crumbled feta cheese, roasted red peppers, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
  • Spicy Moroccan Lamb Burger: Add harissa paste to the meat mixture, replace mint with fresh cilantro, and serve with a cooling cucumber-yogurt slaw for balanced heat.
  • Herb-Packed Mountain Burger: Increase the fresh herb content by adding rosemary and thyme to the lamb mixture, then garnish with grilled scallions and a rustic chimichurri sauce.
  • Mediterranean Slider Version: Reduce patty size to create smaller, bite-sized burgers perfect for appetizers or party platters, served on mini pita rounds with olive tapenade.
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Greek Lamb Burger Recipe

Greek Lamb Burger Recipe


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4.7 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Greek lamb burgers bring Mediterranean flavors to your grill with juicy ground lamb seasoned by fresh herbs and crumbled feta. Crisp cucumber tzatziki and warm pita bread complete this delicious sandwich that delivers authentic Greek island taste in every satisfying bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground lamb
  • ¼ cup (60 grams) crumbled feta cheese

Produce and Vegetables:

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red onion, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 tomato, sliced
  • ¼ cup (40 grams) pitted Kalamata olives, sliced

Bread and Sauce:

  • 4 burger buns or pita bread
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) tzatziki sauce

Instructions

  1. Craft a flavorful lamb burger mixture by blending ground lamb with aromatic herbs, spices, and grated aromatics in a spacious mixing vessel. Incorporate grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mint, dried oregano, cumin, and paprika to create a robust flavor profile.
  2. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and season with kosher salt and black pepper, gently mixing until ingredients are harmoniously integrated.
  3. Carefully divide the seasoned meat mixture into uniform portions, shaping each into smooth, round patties. Use your thumb to create a subtle indentation in the center, which helps maintain an even thickness during cooking.
  4. Refrigerate the prepared patties while preheating the grilling surface to medium temperature. Ensure your cooking platform is lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  5. Position the lamb patties on the heated surface, allowing each side to cook for 3-5 minutes. Monitor the internal temperature, aiming for 160°F for a perfectly cooked medium burger.
  6. Once grilled to desired doneness, transfer the patties to a resting area, letting them sit for several minutes to retain their succulent juices.
  7. Serve the aromatic lamb burgers nestled in warm pita pockets or crusty buns, accompanied by your preferred garnishes and condiments.

Notes

  • Marinate the lamb mixture for enhanced flavor by letting it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before forming patties.
  • Create a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent bulging and ensure even cooking on the grill.
  • Choose fresh herbs like parsley and mint for authentic Greek flavor and vibrant taste.
  • Control the spice level by adjusting cayenne pepper or using mild paprika for a gentler kick.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature and achieve perfect doneness without overcooking.
  • Pair with tzatziki sauce, crumbled feta, or sliced cucumber for classic Mediterranean accompaniments.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Liam O'Brien

Liam O’Brien

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Traditional Irish Dishes
  • Farm-to-Table Cooking
  • Recipe Creation
  • Teaching Cooking Skills
  • Sustainable Food Practices

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (now Technological University Dublin)

  • Program: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Hands-on training in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and exploring both Irish and international cuisines.

Ballymaloe Cookery School, County Cork, Ireland

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Farm-to-table cooking, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Liam O’Brien is the co-founder and kitchen soul behind Good Tasting Meals, a chef who believes that cooking shouldn’t feel stressful or complicated.

He earned his culinary stripes at Technological University Dublin and polished his farm-to-table skills at Ballymaloe Cookery School. With over 15 years flipping pans and stirring up stories, Liam has worked in family cafés, bustling bistros, and everything in between.

At Good Tasting Meals, Liam brings you recipes that feel like home: cozy, simple, and full of flavor.

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