Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here! When you’re ready to switch things up from the usual beef burger, these Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce are the perfect solution. They’re juicy, incredibly flavorful, and packed with a delicious blend of herbs and spices that give them a Mediterranean-inspired taste. Topped with a cool, creamy, and zesty homemade tzatziki sauce, this burger is a total game-changer. It’s a meal that feels a little fancy, but is actually super simple to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.
I first started making lamb burgers when I wanted a burger that was a little more unique and had a deeper flavor profile. The natural richness of the lamb pairs beautifully with fresh herbs like mint and oregano, and the cool tzatziki sauce is the perfect contrast. This recipe is all about creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures—the savory, juicy lamb with the fresh, crunchy vegetables and the creamy, zesty sauce. It’s a dinner that’s both comforting and exciting, and a great way to impress your friends and family.
Why I Love This Recipe
What I love most about these Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce is the incredible flavor. The lamb itself has a richer taste than beef, and when you mix it with a few simple spices, it creates a patty that is truly unforgettable. The homemade tzatziki sauce is the star of the show. It’s so easy to make and tastes a thousand times better than anything you can buy at the store. The cool cucumber and yogurt, along with the fresh dill and garlic, are the perfect complement to the savory lamb.
This recipe is a fantastic alternative to the traditional burger, and it’s a meal that feels special without a lot of extra work. It’s a great way to step out of your culinary comfort zone and try something new. For another great easy meal that’s perfect for a crowd, my recipe for Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter is also a total hit.
Ingredients
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated cucumber, excess water squeezed out
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lamb Burgers:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion slices
Swaps and Notes
- Ground Lamb: Use a good quality ground lamb for the best flavor.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Plain Greek yogurt is a must for the creamy, thick consistency. You can also add a little chopped fresh mint to the sauce for an even fresher flavor.
- Red Onion: I love the flavor of red onion in the patties, but you can also use finely chopped yellow onion or shallots.
- Bread: A hearty hamburger bun or a brioche bun works great for these burgers. Toasting the buns is a must to keep them from getting soggy.
- Seasoning: You can add a pinch of cumin or coriander to the lamb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Directions
Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
- Prep the Cucumber: Grate the cucumber and use a paper towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much water as you can. This prevents the sauce from becoming watery.
- Combine: In a small bowl, combine the plain Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped fresh dill, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers. This allows the flavors to meld.
Make the Lamb Burgers:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the ground lamb, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form them into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb—this prevents them from puffing up in the middle.
- Cook: Heat a grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the surface. Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. The internal temperature for medium-rare is 135°F (57°C) and for well-done is 160°F (71°C).
- Toast Buns: While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast your hamburger buns.
- Assemble and Serve: Place the cooked lamb patty on a toasted bun. Top with fresh lettuce, tomato, and a generous dollop of the homemade tzatziki sauce. Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Just like with any burger, overmixing the ground lamb will result in a tough, dense patty. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
- Make the Sauce Ahead: The tzatziki sauce can be made a day in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had some time to meld together.
- Use a Griddle or Skillet: Cooking these burgers in a cast-iron skillet or on a griddle will give you a fantastic sear and a juicy final product.
- Let the Burgers Rest: Let the cooked patties rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful burger.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a simple Greek salad or a side of crispy oven fries. For another great finger food that’s perfect for a crowd, you might want to try my recipe for This Beer Cheese Dip is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Please note: This is an approximation and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500 per burger (without toppings)
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
This is a hearty, protein-rich meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftover cooked lamb patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, but they are best when made fresh. The tzatziki sauce will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you’re a fan of simple, delicious meals, you’ll love some of my other creations. For a different take on a burger, my recipe for A Light Tangy Chicken Salad I Actually Crave and There’s No Mayo in Sight is always a huge hit. For a great weeknight dinner shortcut, my This Dorito Casserole is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut is a lifesaver. And for a fun, interactive dinner, my This Walking Taco Bar is My Favorite No-Fuss Way to Feed a Crowd is always a huge hit.
Final Thoughts
These Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki Sauce are a recipe that is sure to become a new favorite in your home. They’re flavorful, juicy, and a great way to add a little variety to your dinner routine.
I’d love to know what your favorite unique burger topping is! Let me know in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow me for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!
Lamb Burgers with Tzatziki: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup grated cucumber
- 1 tbsp fresh dill
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp salt
- 4 tsp black pepper
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Tomato slices (for serving)
- Feta cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, fresh dill, and lemon juice to make the tzatziki sauce. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, chopped red onion, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the lamb mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Toast the burger buns on the grill for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Assemble the burgers by placing a lamb patty on each bun, topped with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato slices, and feta cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
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