Description
These Greek Lamb Burgers are a flavorful and juicy option for burger lovers, featuring aromatic herbs and spices like oregano, cumin, and mint. Grilled to perfection and served with classic Mediterranean toppings such as tzatziki sauce, sliced vegetables, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta, these burgers bring a vibrant taste of Greece to your table in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground lamb (see note)
- 1 small red onion, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 10 mint leaves, chopped
- 2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
To Serve
- Burger buns or pita bread
- Tzatziki sauce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced green bell pepper
- Sliced cucumbers
- Sliced red onions
- Pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Make the lamb burger mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, grated red onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Season with a couple of pinches of kosher salt and black pepper, then drizzle in extra virgin olive oil. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the lamb patties: Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball using both hands, then gently flatten into patties. Place the patties on a large tray or dish. With your thumb, press a shallow, wide indentation into the center of each patty to help keep it flat while grilling. Cover and refrigerate the patties while you prepare the grill.
- Preheat the grill: Heat an outdoor gas grill or an indoor griddle to medium heat. Prepare your toppings and condiments so they are ready to assemble shortly after grilling.
- Grill the lamb burgers: Lightly oil the grill surface to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the grill or griddle and cover. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for medium doneness. Adjust time if you prefer burgers cooked to a different level.
- Rest and serve: Remove the lamb burgers from the grill and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes to retain their juices. Serve the burgers in buns or pita bread, topped with tzatziki sauce, sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, red onions, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese as desired.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh herbs and high-quality ground lamb.
- The cayenne pepper is optional and can be omitted for a milder burger.
- Allowing the patties to rest after grilling ensures they remain juicy and tender.
- If a grill is not available, a grill pan or skillet can be used on the stovetop instead.
- Make sure to keep the indentation in each patty to avoid puffing up during cooking.
