10 Easy Mediterranean Lamb Burger Variations: From Spicy Harissa to Creamy Hummus

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Table of Contents

Why Mediterranean Lamb Burgers?

1. Spicy Harissa Lamb Burger with Mint Yogurt Sauce

2. Classic Greek Lamb Burger with Tzatziki and Feta

3. Herbed Lamb Burger with Za’atar and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

4. Moroccan-Style Lamb Burger with Ras el Hanout

5. Lebanese Lamb Burger with Sumac Onions and Labneh

6. Greek-Style Lamb Burger with Spinach, Feta & Olives

7. Turkish-Inspired Lamb Burger with Sumac & Paprika

8. Lebanese Lamb Burger with Fattoush Slaw

9. Greek Yogurt-Marinated Lamb Burger with Za’atar Labneh Spread

10. Mediterranean Lamb Burger with Creamy Hummus & Roasted Red Peppers

Expert Tips for Consistently Great Mediterranean Lamb Burgers

Whether you’re craving a taste of the Mediterranean or simply looking to switch up your weekly burger routine, these 10 easy Mediterranean lamb burger variations will transport your taste buds to sun-drenched shores. From fiery harissa-spiced patties to cool, creamy hummus toppings, each variation highlights vibrant herbs, bold spices, and authentic flavors. Read on for detailed recipes, pro tips, and serving suggestions that will help you make the best lamb burger recipes!

Why Mediterranean Lamb Burgers?

Lamb is a classic protein in Mediterranean cuisine, prized for its rich flavor and perfect pairing with bright herbs and spices. By incorporating key ingredients like za’atar, feta, tzatziki, and harissa, you’ll create burgers that are juicy, unforgettable, and distinctly Mediterranean lamb burger in style. Plus, these recipes are:

• Easy to Prepare: One-bowl mixing and simple grilling or pan-searing techniques.

• Highly Customizable: Swap in your favorite toppings, sauces, or buns to suit dietary needs.

• Nutritious: Lamb is full of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals—especially when paired with fresh vegetables and whole-grain buns.

  
  

  Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for an exciting weeknight dinner, these variations will keep your meals fresh, flavorful, and Instagram-worthy. Ready to learn how to make each unique patty? Let’s dive in!

1. Spicy Harissa Lamb Burger with Mint Yogurt Sauce

Why It Works

Harissa brings a fiery, North African-inspired heat, balanced perfectly by a cooling mint yogurt sauce. The result? A lamb burger that is both bold and refreshing.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 2 Tbsp harissa paste

  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• For the Mint Yogurt Sauce:

  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves

  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice

  • Pinch of salt and pepper

• Assembly & Toppings:

  • 4 toasted pita pockets or burger buns

  • Sliced cucumber

  • Sliced tomato

  • Red onion rings

  • Lettuce leaves

Step 1: Mix the Burger Patties: In a medium bowl, combine ground lamb, harissa paste, chopped onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined; avoid overworking the meat.

Step 2: Shape & Chill (Optional): Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties (about ½-inch thick). For best results, chill the patties for 15–20 minutes to help them hold their shape.

Step 3: Make the Mint Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, chopped mint, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste; refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Cook the Patties:

Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Oil grates lightly. Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side (for medium doneness).

Stovetop Method: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Assemble Burgers: Spread a generous spoonful of mint yogurt sauce inside each pita pocket or on the bottom bun. Layer the lamb patty, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and lettuce. Top with more mint yogurt sauce; finish with the top bun or pita.

Pro Tips

• Harissa Intensity: Harissa paste can vary in spice level—start with 1 Tbsp and taste before adding more.

• Resting Time: Let the patties rest 5 minutes after cooking to seal in juices.

• Yogurt Consistency: If your Greek yogurt is very thick, stir in a splash of water or milk for a smoother sauce that’s easier to drizzle.

2. Classic Greek Lamb Burger with Tzatziki and Feta

Why It Works

This recipe celebrates iconic Greek flavors—fresh rosemary, tangy feta, crisp cucumber, and creamy tzatziki. It’s a surefire way to create a Mediterranean lamb burger that tastes like a street vendor’s masterpiece.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh rosemary

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • ¼ tsp ground allspice

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Tzatziki Sauce:

  • ½ cup grated cucumber, squeezed dry

  • ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh dill

  • 1 tsp minced garlic

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Assembly & Toppings:

  • 4 brioche or whole-grain buns, toasted

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • Sliced red onion

  • Sliced tomato

  • Lettuce leaves

Step 1: Prepare the Patties: In a bowl, gently combine ground lamb, rosemary, oregano, garlic, allspice, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties and chill for 10–15 minutes if time allows.

Step 2: Make Tzatziki: Stir together grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers:

• Grill: Preheat to medium heat, oil grates, and grill 4–5 minutes per side.

• Stovetop: Heat skillet with a drizzle of olive oil; cook 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Build the Burger: Spread tzatziki on both the bottom and top bun. Place the lamb patty on the bottom bun, then top with crumbled feta, onion, tomato, and lettuce. Close with top bun.

Pro Tips

• Extra Flavors: Mix 1 Tbsp of olive tapenade into the lamb mixture for a salty, umami boost.

• Tzatziki Prep: Remove excess water from grated cucumber by squeezing through a clean kitchen towel; ensures a creamy, non-runny sauce.

3. Herbed Lamb Burger with Za’atar and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Why It Works

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. Combined with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and vibrant parsley, this burger variation packs a major flavor punch.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 2 Tbsp za’atar blend

  • ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained)

  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Drizzle & Toppings:

  • 2 Tbsp olive oil

  • 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 4 whole-grain buns or ciabatta rolls

  • A handful of arugula leaves

  • Sliced red onion

Step 1: Mix Patties: In a mixing bowl, combine ground lamb, za’atar, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 patties; chill for 10 minutes if possible.

Step 2: Cook Patties:

• Grill: Preheat grill to medium. Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side.

• Skillet: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 3: Make Lemon-Olive Oil Drizzle: Whisk together olive oil and lemon juice; set aside.

Step 4: Assemble: Place arugula on the bottom bun, top with the lamb patty, drizzle lemon-olive oil mixture, add red onion slices, then close with top bun.

Pro Tips

• Za’atar Quality: Use a high-quality, freshly ground za’atar for bright, herbal flavor.

• Sun-Dried Tomato Prep: Chop tomatoes finely so they distribute evenly throughout the patty.

4. Moroccan-Style Lamb Burger with Ras el Hanout

Why It Works

Ras el hanout is a Moroccan spice blend featuring coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, and more. When mixed into ground lamb, it creates a warm, aromatic burger that pairs perfectly with a simple harissa mayo.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 2 Tbsp ras el hanout spice mix

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 2 Tbsp finely chopped cilantro

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Harissa Mayo:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)

  • 1 Tbsp harissa paste

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • Pinch of salt

• Assembly & Toppings:

  • 4 pita breads or burger buns

  • Sliced red onion

  • Sliced tomato

  • Lettuce leaves

Step 1: Combine Patties: Mix ground lamb, ras el hanout, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties; chill briefly if needed.

Step 2: Mix Harissa Mayo: Stir together mayo, harissa paste, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: Cook Patties:

• Grill: 4–5 minutes per side on medium grill.

• Skillet: Cook in oiled skillet, 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Build Burgers: Spread harissa mayo on pita or buns. Layer lamb patty, onion, tomato, and lettuce. Top with extra harissa mayo if desired.

Pro Tips

• Harissa Adjustments: If harissa is very spicy, start with 1 tsp and adjust to taste.

• Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of couscous salad or marinated olives for a full Moroccan-inspired meal.

5. Lebanese Lamb Burger with Sumac Onions and Labneh

Why It Works

Sumac onions add a tangy, citrusy note, while labneh (strained yogurt cheese) brings creamy richness. Together, they create a balanced, refreshing Mediterranean lamb burger that’s perfect for summer grilling.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh mint

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Sumac Onions:

  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 Tbsp sumac spice

  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice

  • Pinch of salt

• Labneh Spread:

  • ½ cup labneh (or thick Greek yogurt)

  • 1 tsp olive oil

  • Pinch of salt

• Assembly & Toppings:

  • 4 flatbreads or burger buns

  • Chopped fresh parsley

  • Sliced tomato

Step 1: Prepare Sumac Onions: In a bowl, toss red onion slices with sumac, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Let sit 10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Step 2: Mix Lamb Patties: Combine ground lamb, mint, cinnamon, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties; chill if necessary.

Step 3: Make Labneh Spread: Stir labneh, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl; set aside.

Cook Patties:

• Grill: Preheat to medium, grill 4–5 minutes per side.

• Skillet: Cook in lightly oiled skillet, 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Assemble Burgers: Spread labneh on flatbread or buns. Add the lamb patty, top with sumac onions, tomato slices, and parsley. Fold or close.

Pro Tips

• Labneh Alternative: If you can’t find labneh, use super-thick Greek yogurt (strain overnight through cheesecloth).

• Make Ahead: Sumac onions can be made 1 day in advance; refrigerate in an airtight container.

6. Greek-Style Lamb Burger with Spinach, Feta & Olives

Why It Works

This variation layers chopped spinach and briny Kalamata olives into the patty, plus crumbled feta on top—creating a lamb burger that bursts with classic Greek flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • ½ cup chopped fresh spinach

  • ¼ cup finely chopped Kalamata olives (pitted)

  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Toppings & Assembly:

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • Sliced cucumber

  • Sliced tomato

  • Red onion rings

  • 4 burger buns

Step 1: Combine Patties: In a bowl, mix ground lamb, spinach, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties; chill 10 minutes for easier handling.

Step 2: Cook Patties:

• Grill: Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side on medium heat.

• Stovetop: Heat skillet with olive oil, cook 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 3: Top with Feta: During the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, generously sprinkle crumbled feta on each patty and close skillet or cover grill to melt slightly.

Step 4: Assemble Burgers: Place patties on buns, top with cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Optionally drizzle with olive oil or plain Greek yogurt.

Pro Tips

• Spinach Prep: Sauté chopped spinach for 1 minute first to remove excess moisture; let cool before mixing.

• Olive Balance: Taste as you add olives—excess brine can overpower lamb’s flavor.

7. Turkish-Inspired Lamb Burger with Sumac & Paprika

Why It Works

A subtly smoky burger featuring ground lamb seasoned with sumac, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley. Toppings of whipped feta and pickled peppers bring tang and creaminess.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika

  • 1 Tbsp sumac

  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Whipped Feta:

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 2 Tbsp Greek yogurt

  • 1 tsp olive oil

• Pickled Pepper Topping:

  • ¼ cup sliced pickled peppers (banana peppers or pepperoncini)

  • 1 Tbsp reserved pickling liquid

• Assembly & Toppings:

  • 4 burger buns

  • Chopped fresh parsley

Step 1: Mix Patties: Combine ground lamb, paprika, sumac, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 patties; chill briefly.

Step 2: Prepare Whipped Feta: In a small bowl or mini–food processor, blend feta, Greek yogurt, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust consistency with more yogurt if needed.

Step 3: Cook Patties:

• Grill: Grill on medium heat 4–5 minutes per side.

• Stovetop: Cook in a hot skillet with a bit of oil, 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Assemble Burgers: Spread whipped feta on bottom bun, top with lamb patty, add pickled peppers and a drizzle of pickling liquid, then sprinkle fresh parsley. Close with top bun.

Pro Tips

• Sumac Flavor: Toast a little sumac in a dry skillet before adding to the mixture to deepen its aroma.

• Pickled Pepper Choice: Use a milder pepper for less heat, or opt for spicy pepperoncini if you enjoy a kick.

8. Lebanese Lamb Burger with Fattoush Slaw

Why It Works

A cross between a burger and a fresh salad: the patty is seasoned with allspice and garlic, then topped with a crunchy Fattoush-inspired slaw (cucumber, tomato, radish, pita chips, lemon vinaigrette).

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 1 tsp ground allspice

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh mint

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fattoush Slaw:

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • ½ cup radishes, thinly sliced

  • ½ cup chopped parsley

  • 1 cup torn pita chips (store-bought or homemade)

  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice

  • 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

  • Pinch of salt and pepper

• Assembly:

  • 4 burger buns or pita pockets

Step 1: Mix Patties: In a bowl, combine ground lamb, allspice, garlic, mint, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 patties; chill if desired.

Step 2: Make Fattoush Slaw: In a large bowl, toss cucumber, tomato, radish, parsley, and pita chips with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let sit 5 minutes for flavors to marry.

Step 3: Cook Patties:

• Grill: 4–5 minutes per side on medium heat.

• Skillet: Cook in skillet with a splash of oil, 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Assemble Burgers: Place the lamb patty on the bottom bun, top generously with Fattoush slaw, then close with the top bun.

Pro Tips

• Pita Chips: Make your own by brushing pita wedges with olive oil, baking at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until golden.

• Slaw Crunch: Add chopped toasted almonds or pine nuts for extra texture.

9. Greek Yogurt-Marinated Lamb Burger with Za’atar Labneh Spread

Why It Works

Marinating lamb in Greek yogurt and spices makes the patties ultra-tender. A za’atar-spiked labneh spread adds tang and herbal notes, creating a light, Mediterranean-inspired burger.

Ingredients

• For the Marinade & Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 Tbsp za’atar blend

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Za’atar Labneh Spread:

  • ½ cup labneh

  • 1 Tbsp za’atar blend

  • 1 tsp olive oil

  • Pinch of salt

• Assembly & Toppings:

  • 4 whole-grain buns

  • Sliced tomato

  • Sliced red onion

  • Fresh mint leaves

Step 1: Marinate Lamb: In a bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, za’atar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add ground lamb and gently mix until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).

Step 2: Prepare Labneh Spread: Mix labneh, za’atar, olive oil, and salt in a small bowl; refrigerate until use.

Step 3: Shape & Cook Patties: Remove lamb from fridge, form into 4 patties.

• Grill: Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side over medium heat.

• Skillet: Cook patties in a lightly oiled skillet, 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Assemble Burgers: Spread za’atar labneh on bottom bun, top with lamb patty, tomato, red onion, and fresh mint leaves. Close with top bun.

Pro Tips

• Marinating Time: Do not exceed 2 hours, or the yogurt’s acidity may start “cooking” the lamb and alter texture.

• Labneh Alternative: If labneh isn’t available, strain plain Greek yogurt overnight to achieve a thick consistency.

10. Mediterranean Lamb Burger with Creamy Hummus & Roasted Red Peppers

Why It Works

This variation highlights creamy hummus (a staple in Mediterranean cuisine) and sweet, smoky roasted red peppers. It’s an indulgent combination that’s still packed with authentic flavors.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 tsp ground coriander

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Toppings & Assembly:

  • ½ cup prepared hummus (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced

  • 4 burger buns or pita pockets

  • Handful of arugula or baby spinach

Step 1: Mix Patties: In a bowl, combine ground lamb, parsley, garlic, coriander, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties; let chill if desired.

Step 2: Cook Patties:

• Grill: Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side on medium heat.

• Skillet: Cook in a greased skillet, 4–5 minutes per side.

Step 3: Warm Hummus: Gently warm hummus in a small saucepan or microwave (20–30 seconds) until spreadable.

Step 4: Assemble Burgers: Spread a thick layer of hummus on bottom bun or inside pita. Add lamb patty, then top with roasted red peppers and a handful of arugula or spinach. Close with top bun.

Pro Tips

• Homemade Hummus: Blend 1 can chickpeas (rinsed), 2 Tbsp tahini, juice of ½ lemon, 1 garlic clove, 2 Tbsp olive oil, and salt until smooth.

• Roasted Peppers: To roast at home, broil 2–3 red bell peppers on a baking sheet until charred, place in a covered bowl for 10 minutes, then peel and slice.

Bringing It All Together

By experimenting with these 10 easy Mediterranean lamb burger variations, you’ll discover that a simple ground lamb patty can become a canvas for countless bold, herbaceous, and tangy flavors. Whether you opt for the heat of harissa, the cooling tang of tzatziki, or the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers and hummus, these recipes are guaranteed to delight family, friends, and anyone who appreciates a well-seasoned burger.

Expert Tips for Consistently Great Mediterranean Lamb Burgers

1. Choose High-Quality Lamb: Look for grass-fed or pasture-raised ground lamb for the best flavor and texture.

2. Don’t Overwork the Meat: Mix just until ingredients are combined; over-mixing can lead to tough patties.

3. Rest Patties Before Cooking: Chilling for 10–15 minutes helps them hold shape and prevents excessive shrinking.

4. Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 145 °F (63 °C) for medium–medium rare; adjust to personal preference.

5. Let Burgers Rest After Cooking: Allow 5 minutes of resting to let juices redistribute for maximum juiciness.

   

   With these Mediterranean lamb burger recipes—ranging from spicy harissa lamb burger with mint yogurt sauce to Mediterranean lamb burger with creamy hummus and roasted red peppers—you have all the tools to satisfy your cravings and impress any crowd. Each variation highlights essential Mediterranean flavors that complement the rich, savory profile of lamb. Bookmark this guide for easy Mediterranean lamb burger recipes and try all ten delicious spins!

   
   

   Happy grilling, and may your next burger night be the most memorable yet!