Better-Than-Meat Halloumi Burgers: Crispy, Golden, and Seriously Satisfying
These better-than-meat halloumi burgers prove that vegetarian fast food can be just as satisfying as the real thing. Thick, golden slices of grilled halloumi bring the perfect balance of saltiness and crunch, layered with fresh veggies and a creamy burger sauce that ties it all together. It’s the kind of burger that works for everyone: vegetarians, meat-lovers, and anyone craving a quick, flavor-packed dinner. Serve it with crispy sweet potato fries or a bright red onion salad, and you’ve got yourself a halloumi dinner worth repeating all summer long.
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Halloumi burgers have become a regular in our house. Everyone loves them, even the kids, who think it’s “grilled cheese but better.” They’re quick to make, easy to pack for lunch the next day, and somehow manage to feel both fresh and comforting. It’s one of those meals that never needs convincing; it just disappears from the table every time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Crispy and golden perfection. Pan-fried halloumi develops that irresistible crust while staying soft inside.
- High-protein vegetarian. Perfect for anyone looking to skip meat without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Quick and easy. Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous burger cravings.
- Customizable toppings. Add grilled veggies, caramelized onions, or spicy mayo for your own twist.
Ingredient Notes
Halloumi is the star here: firm enough to hold its shape but still soft inside once it’s grilled. The simple spice mix gives it just the right balance of flavor without taking away that signature halloumi bite. Use brioche buns for a soft, buttery base, or swap in gluten-free buns if you prefer. The sauce adds a creamy, tangy finish that ties everything together, and the fresh toppings keep each bite light and balanced.
See the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients and quantities.
How To Make Halloumi Burgers
Step 1: Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning or sweetness as needed.
Step 2: Season the Halloumi: In a shallow dish, whisk together olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the halloumi slices evenly with the mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Halloumi: Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp on the edges.
Step 4: Toast the Buns: Brush the cut sides of the brioche buns with olive oil. Toast them in the same pan, cut side down, until golden and slightly crisp.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers: Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, then stack the grilled halloumi.
Step 6: Top with tomato, red onion, and any optional toppings. Spread more sauce on the top bun and close the burger.
Expert Tips And Variations
- Dry the halloumi first. Pat it dry with paper towels before frying; this helps ensure a crispier texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each slice room to brown evenly.
- Make it spicy. Add chili flakes to the sauce, or serve with a spicy yogurt dip.
- For Meal Prep: Cook and chill the halloumi, then reheat it in a skillet or air fryer before assembling.
- For a lighter option, skip the bun and wrap it in lettuce.
- For a vegan version, use vegan halloumi and dairy-free mayo or yogurt for the sauce.
Serving Ideas
Pair your halloumi burgers with crispy sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a chilled red onion salad. They also make a fun addition to a veggie burger bar for summer entertaining or vegetarian meals for kids who love finger foods.
Halloumi Burgers FAQs
Brioche or ciabatta buns work perfectly. They are soft but sturdy enough to hold the fillings.
You can substitute vegan halloumi and use plant-based yogurt for the sauce.
Avoid overcooking. 1-2 minutes per side is just enough for a crisp crust and soft center.
Yes, the same grilled halloumi and sauce work perfectly in wraps or sandwiches for quick lunches or meal prep.
For more delicious vegetarian dinner options, try this beet ravioli recipe.
Tried this halloumi burger recipe? Please rate the recipe and leave a comment below to let us know how they turned out. Your feedback helps others find and enjoy it too!
Halloumi Burger
Equipment
- Grill pan or non-stick skillet or non-stick skillet
- Small mixing bowl
- Tongs or spatula
Ingredients
For the Halloumi Burgers
- 9 oz halloumi cheese (250 g) sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Burger Assembly
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for toasting
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Optional: sliced avocado, pickles, or other toppings
For the Sauce
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning or sweetness as needed, then chill while you prepare the burgers.
- Season the Halloumi: In a shallow dish, whisk olive oil with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat each halloumi slice evenly in the mixture.
- Cook the Halloumi: Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp on the edges. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender inside.
- Toast the Buns: Brush the cut sides of the brioche buns with olive oil. Toast them in the same pan, cut side down, until golden and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a layer of sauce on the bottom bun. Add lettuce, then stack the grilled halloumi, followed by tomato, red onion, and any optional toppings. Spread more sauce on the top bun and close the burger. Enjoy warm with sweet potato fries, chips, or a side salad.
Notes
- Halloumi naturally contains salt, so adjust the seasoning blend accordingly.
- You can grill the halloumi outdoors for a smoky twist.
- To make it vegan, use plant-based halloumi and vegan mayo.
