From Mediterranean lamb burgers to seriously juicy turkey burgers, these are the BEST homemade burger recipes, perfect for grilling season!
Memorial Day is coming right up and that means GRILLING SEASON is upon us!
This makes my outdoors-loving heart happy. I mean what's better than getting the whole family outside in the evenings so the kids can run off some of that boundless energy while the grownups chat over burgers on the grill? Nothing, that's what. Can you tell I'm ready for it?
(If you happen to find this delicious burger roundup in a different season, don't worry! You can absolutely cook these burgers stovetop as well.)
We love burgers in our house but I sometimes want something different than the classic beef patty on a gluten free bun, you know? I love getting creative in the kitchen and that includes burger recipes! You'll find a mix of classic, delicious burgers and some more fun, creative iterations below.
So pick out one or two, save the rest for later, and let's get ready for the kickoff of summer!
Tips for Homemade Healthy Burgers
Before we get to the recipes, I wanted to share a few of my tips for making delicious homemade healthy burgers.
The first, and perhaps the most important, is don't be too stingy with the fat! If you're using super lean meat, you're going to need to add a bit of fat in or your burger will be dry, no matter how much of a grill master you are. You can find ideas on how to do this in this post.
Second, let everyone customize! That's part of the fun of cooking at home, right? Yes, you have to do the dishes, but you also get to make things just how you like them, which is particularly great if your crew has varying preferences. I love setting out a variety of different toppings and letting everyone create their own personal burger masterpiece.
Pro tip? Make a few smaller burgers, or sliders, for the kiddos!
Another tip? Get comfortable with the grill. You can of course cook your burgers on the stovetop if needed but, I gotta say, there is something about that smoky grilled flavor that's hard to beat…
My recommendation? Grab a friend or neighbor who you know is an expert at the grill. You provide the meat and they can provide the expertise. If you're not feeling quite that brave, check out my tips on grilling for beginners!
Easy Ways to Make a Paleo Burger
There is no reason you have to serve your burger on a bun. I actually frequently give my kids burgers without buns, simply because I don't always keep them on hand.
If you're looking for a paleo burger, you can simply serve your burger in a lettuce wrap, as a “burger bowl” over lettuce with all of the toppings, or all on its own with tasty sides like roasted potatoes.
In my opinion, the bun is far from the best part of a burger so don't feel like you're missing out!
The BEST Homemade Burger Recipes
And without further ado, here are the BEST homemade burger recipes, in my humble opinion 😉 I hope you find a new family favorite!
BLTA Burgers
It's hard to beat a burger piled high with bacon, lettuce, tomato & avocado! Whether you serve this one on a bun or atop some fresh lettuce as pictured, it's totally delicious. I really love the oven method for cooking bacon, which you'll see described in the recipe. It's no mess and doesn't leave my entire house smelling like bacon!
That's my smoky paprika roasted cauliflower you see on the side. It's a nice change up from your standard french fries, and just as delicious!
Mediterranean Lamb Burgers
In this creative burger recipe, you'll mix spices like turmeric, ginger and chili powder into the ground lamb before forming your patties, which results in a ton of flavor!
Topping with avocado, red onion and goat cheese really takes these beauties over the top.
Not a fan of lamb or can't find it in your grocery store? This Mediterranean burger recipe is just as good with ground turkey!
Juicy Turkey Burgers
This post actually has FOUR different recipes for completely delicious, juicy turkey burgers.
Why so many? I think turkey burgers are an excellent alternative to beef when you're trying to trim the grocery budget or simply want a different flavor profile. But, let's face it, there's nothing worse than a dry turkey burger.
Making juicy turkey burgers takes a little bit of forethought but, trust me, these four recipes result in flavorful, never-dry turkey burgers every time.
Black Bean & Quinoa Veggie Burgers
Want a vegetarian alternative? I was a vegetarian for years and I know how sad a subpar veggie burger can be. My version is packed with protein and is specifically designed to be sturdy enough to stand up on the grill.
If you have non-meat-eaters coming to your next bbq or you simply want something different, this is a delicious veggie burger recipe you can rely on!
Plus, the BEST Burger Add-Ons
If you know me at all, you know I'm ALL about the toppings. I think fun, creative toppings can really take homemade burgers to the next level. If you're short on time, bacon, avocado, an interesting cheese or a fried egg are all delicious, low-effort options.
If you're planning a get-together or want to take your burgers to the next level, these are my favorite homemade spreads to include. (No time for homemade spreads and condiments? I love the Primal Kitchen brand!)
Homemade Ketchup
Naturally sweetened with dates, this homemade ketchup has wonderful depth of flavor. It's every bit as addictive as the bottled stuff but SO much healthier.
Basil Aioli
For a totally different take on a burger, spread some of my popular basil aioli on the bun (or lettuce wrap!) Creamy and fresh, this spread is also amazing as a dip for raw veggies.
Healthier BBQ Sauce
A touch of honey lends my homemade bbq sauce its sweetness while apple cider vinegar gives it its signature tanginess. It's just as good on burgers as chicken!
Chimichurri Sauce
To be honest, I could eat this chimichurri sauce on pretty much everything. It's that good! Spread some on your burger for a totally savory twist.
Bonus – if you like to serve your burgers with a side of roasted potatoes / sweet potatoes, they're also excellent dipped in chimichurri!
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