Middle Eastern Spiced Lamb Burger

Infused with the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern spices, this spiced lamb burger is a gourmet twist on a backyard classic. Juicy ground lamb is seasoned with a fragrant blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika, then seared to tender perfection. Topped with a creamy homemade yogurt sauce laced with lemon and optional sumac, these patties are nestled in toasted buns alongside crisp cucumber, tangy red onion, and peppery arugula. Perfect for a quick dinner or casual gathering, this recipe combines bold, aromatic seasonings with fresh, wholesome toppings for a truly elevated burger experience. Serve with sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s as delicious as it is unforgettable.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon ground sumac (optional)
• 4 hamburger buns
• 0.5 cup sliced cucumber
• 0.25 cup sliced red onion
• 1 cup arugula or other greens

Directions

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, red chili flakes, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands until the spices are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat.

Step 2

Divide the lamb mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2-inch thick.

Step 3

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Brush the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4

Cook the lamb patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium). Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.

Step 5

While the lamb patties cook, make the yogurt sauce by mixing the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and sumac (if using) in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 6

Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden and slightly crispy.

Step 7

To assemble the burgers, spread a generous layer of yogurt sauce on the bottom bun. Add a handful of arugula or greens, a cooked lamb patty, sliced cucumber, and red onion. Top with the other half of the bun.

Step 8

Serve immediately with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1053.9 grams (1053.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1950

Total Fat 122.90g	158%
Saturated Fat 48.50g	242%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.70g
Cholesterol 448mg	149%
Sodium 4919mg	214%
Total Carbohydrate 81.20g	30%
Dietary Fiber 62.70g	224%
Total Sugars 9.00g
Protein 184.80g	370%

Vitamin D 18IU	91%
Calcium 567mg	44%
Iron 19mg	103%
Potassium 2427mg	52%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 51.0%

Protein: 34.1%

Carbs: 15.0%