Greek Lamb And Feta Burgers

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Are you looking for a fresh twist on traditional burgers that’s packed with bold flavors and easy to make?

If so, these Greek lamb and feta burgers with homemade tzatziki are just what your dinner table needs.

Blending the rich, juicy taste of lamb with the creamy, tangy bite of feta cheese, these burgers bring a Mediterranean touch that’s both satisfying and effortless to prepare.

One sunny afternoon, I decided to swap out the usual beef patties for something a bit more gourmet and nutrient-rich for our family BBQ.

The choice was simple: lamb—known for its juicy texture and excellent source of Omega-3 fats, iron, and selenium.

As I mixed the ground lamb with fresh herbs, spices, and crumbled feta, I knew I was in for a treat.

The grill sizzled as the patties cooked, and in just minutes, we had burgers that were bursting with bold, savory flavors.

Each bite was a perfect balance of meaty goodness, fragrant spices, and Mediterranean zest, making it a hit among both adults and kids.

These Greek lamb and feta burgers are not just a meal; they’re an experience.

Whether you’re looking for a new addition to your weekly dinner routine, planning a summer cookout, or simply craving a burger with a unique twist, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

With fresh ingredients and a creamy homemade tzatziki sauce, these burgers are a delicious and nutrient-packed way to enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean.

Table of Contents

Greek Lamb And Feta Burgers Recipe

Servings: 4 to 6

Ingredients

1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 small spicy green chilies (like serrano or jalapeño), finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 pound feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon feta brine or water
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 pound ground lamb
4 hamburger buns or 6 small whole wheat rolls

Toppings

Sliced tomatoes
Sliced red onions
Crisp lettuce leaves
Pickled jalapeños
Homemade tzatziki (recipe below)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the red onion, garlic, chilies, mint, beaten egg, feta, feta brine, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Add the ground lamb to the mixture and gently combine with your hands. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers tough.
Shape the mixture into four larger burger patties or six smaller slider-sized patties.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4 minutes on one side, until a crust forms. Flip and cook for another 4 minutes.
Remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes.
While the burgers rest, slice the buns in half and lightly toast them on the grill, cut side down, until golden brown and slightly crispy.
Assemble the burgers by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by a burger patty, sliced tomato, red onion, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Homemade Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup thick Greek yogurt
1/2 English cucumber, finely grated
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (mint, chives, or basil work well)
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Place the grated cucumber in a fine-mesh strainer and let it drain for at least 30 minutes. Press gently to remove excess moisture.
In a bowl, mix the drained cucumber with the yogurt, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Refrigerate until ready to use.

How Do You Keep Lamb Burgers Juicy And Flavorful?

To maintain moisture and enhance taste in your lamb burgers:

Choose Ground Lamb with Adequate Fat Content: Opt for ground lamb that contains around 15-20% fat. This fat content ensures the burgers remain juicy during cooking.
Incorporate Flavorful Additions: Mix in ingredients like minced garlic, onion, and herbs such as oregano or mint to enhance the burger’s taste. Adding crumbled feta cheese can also introduce a creamy texture and additional moisture.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the ingredients to prevent the meat from becoming dense and tough.
Proper Cooking Technique: Cook the burgers over medium-high heat to achieve a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside moist. Avoid pressing down on the patties, as this can release their natural juices.

What Are The Best Toppings And Sauces For Greek Lamb Burgers?

Enhance your Greek lamb burgers with these traditional and flavorful toppings:

Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing blend of Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice adds a cool and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the lamb.
Fresh Vegetables: Sliced tomatoes, red onions, and crisp lettuce provide freshness and a satisfying crunch.
Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese introduces a salty and creamy element that pairs well with the lamb.
Olives: Kalamata olives offer a briny taste that enhances the overall flavor profile.

What Sides Go Well With Greek Lamb Burgers?

Complement your burgers with these delicious side dishes:

Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil and lemon juice provides a refreshing accompaniment.
Grilled Vegetables: Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, when grilled, add a smoky flavor that pairs excellently with lamb burgers.
Pita Bread with Dips: Serving warm pita alongside dips like hummus or baba ganoush offers additional Mediterranean flavors.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the savory burger.

Can I Prepare Lamb Burgers Ahead Of Time?

Yes, preparing lamb burgers in advance is possible:

Form the Patties: Shape the seasoned lamb mixture into patties and place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.
Refrigerate: Cover the tray and refrigerate the patties for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Freeze for Longer Storage: Individually wrap each patty in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

How Spicy Are These Lamb Burgers, And Can I Adjust The Heat Level?

The spiciness of Greek lamb burgers is customizable:

Mild: Omit spicy ingredients like chili peppers for a gentle flavor.
Moderate: Add mild spices or a small amount of finely chopped mild chili to introduce a slight kick.
Spicy: Incorporate spicier elements such as serrano peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat.

What Kind Of Buns Or Bread Should I Use?

Selecting the right bread enhances the burger experience:

Brioche Buns: Soft and slightly sweet, these buns complement the savory flavors of the lamb.
Whole Wheat Buns: They offer a nutty flavor and sturdy structure, suitable for holding juicy patties.
Pita Bread: For a traditional touch, use warm pita bread to wrap the burger and toppings.

How To Store Leftover Lamb Burgers?

Proper storage ensures safety and taste:

Refrigeration: Place cooked patties in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Consume within three days.
Reheating: Warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through.