Originally Published: March 12, 2015
Updated: July 11, 2026
Editor’s Note: This recipe was updated in July 2026 with additional cooking tips, FAQs, serving suggestions, and SEO enhancements while preserving the original recipe.
Lamb burgers are one of my favorite types of burgers, especially during the summer months when my garden is bursting with fresh mint and basil.
If you’re a lamb lover, this is a great way to get your fix without breaking the bank.
I like my lamb a little pink in the middle. These guys were done perfectly in 10 minutes total on the grill, which runs hot. I also use pickled red onions because I love the sweet, tangy flavor they add to the end result. If you’d rather use raw yellow or Vidalia onion, that works just fine too.
Mint jelly may be the default condiment for lamb, but honestly, I can’t stand it. With fresh mint in the burger, I like to top it with a little heat and sweet, as in Pepper Jelly.
Quick Answer
Looking for a flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers? These lamb burgers combine ground lamb with fresh mint, basil, garlic, and simple seasonings for a juicy, Mediterranean-inspired burger that’s perfect for grilling season. Ready in about 30 minutes, they’re delicious topped with feta cheese, tzatziki, sliced tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and served on a toasted brioche bun or on their own over a salad.
Tips for Perfect Lamb Burgers
- Don’t overwork the meat. Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the burgers tender.
- Form patties slightly larger than your buns. Burgers naturally shrink as they cook.
- Create a small indentation in the center. Press your thumb gently into the middle of each patty to help them cook evenly and prevent puffing.
- Resist pressing the burgers while grilling. Pressing forces flavorful juices into the fire instead of keeping them inside the burger.
- Let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute for the best texture and flavor.
- Cook to the proper temperature. An instant-read thermometer is the easiest way to ensure perfectly cooked lamb every time.
The Secret to Juicy Lamb Burgers
The secret to making juicy lamb burgers starts with understanding the meat itself. Ground lamb naturally contains more fat than many lean ground beef blends, which helps create a tender, flavorful burger—but only if you treat it gently.
First, avoid overmixing the meat. Combine the ingredients just until everything is incorporated, as excessive handling can make the burgers dense and tough. When shaping the patties, use a light touch and make a small indentation in the center with your thumb to help them cook evenly.
Next, resist the urge to press the burgers down while they’re on the grill. While it may seem like a good way to create a nice crust, pressing the patties forces their flavorful juices into the flames instead of keeping them inside the burger.
Finally, don’t overcook them. An instant-read thermometer is the easiest way to know when your burgers are done without drying them out. Once cooked, let the burgers rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
With fresh mint and basil adding brightness to every bite, these simple techniques ensure every lamb burger comes off the grill tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
What to Serve with Lamb Burgers
These burgers pair beautifully with fresh, Mediterranean-inspired sides. Consider serving them with:
- Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta
- Crispy sweet potato fries
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Roasted fingerling potatoes
- Pasta salad with fresh herbs
- Grilled zucchini or asparagus
- Homemade tzatziki for dipping fries or spreading on the burgers
For drinks, a crisp pilsner, rosé, or a citrusy sparkling lemonade complements the rich flavor of lamb beautifully.
Jersey Bites Editor’s Note: Since 2007, Jersey Bites has shared recipes from New Jersey chefs, restaurants, and passionate home cooks. This lamb burger recipe is one of our favorite alternatives to traditional beef burgers, combining fresh mint and basil for a bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavor that’s perfect for grilling season.
Best Lamb Burgers with Fresh Mint and Basil
These juicy lamb burgers are made with fresh mint, basil, garlic, and simple seasonings for a Mediterranean-inspired twist on the classic burger. Perfect for grilling, they're flavorful, tender, and ready in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1/4 cup minced pickled red onion (or regular yellow onion)
- 1 medium garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh Basil leaves
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh Mint leaves
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 burger buns
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except rolls in a large bowl and mix until evenly combined. Form into 4 patties.
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium heat. Once the grill is hot, cook burgers about 10 minutes (5 minutes per side) or until juices run clear and patties are firm to the touch.
- Place lamb burgers on buns, top with Pepper Jelly or toppings of choice and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do mint and lamb pair so well?
Mint has long been paired with lamb because its fresh, bright flavor balances the richness of the meat. Fresh basil adds another layer of herbaceous flavor, making these burgers taste light and vibrant without overpowering the lamb.
Can I cook these lamb burgers on the stovetop?
Absolutely. A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully if grilling isn’t an option. Cook over medium-high heat until nicely browned on both sides and cooked to your desired doneness.
What toppings go best on lamb burgers?
Feta cheese, tzatziki, cucumber, roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, arugula, sliced tomatoes, and crisp lettuce all pair exceptionally well with lamb.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes. Form the patties up to a day in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze lamb burger patties?
Yes. Place parchment paper between each uncooked patty and freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
What temperature should lamb burgers be cooked to?
For the best combination of flavor, texture, and food safety, cook lamb burgers until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, measured with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of each patty.
Are lamb burgers gamey?
Good-quality ground lamb has a rich, slightly earthy flavor, but it shouldn’t taste overly gamey. Fresh herbs, garlic, and simple seasonings help create a balanced, approachable burger that even first-time lamb eaters often enjoy.
