Maybe it’s the warmer weather and longer days. Or maybe we’re just ready for a new mindset. Whatever the reason may be, we’ve been feeling kind of optimistic lately…which has us thinking about burgers. We’ve been doing a lot of burger-scrolling (it’s so much better than doom-scrolling) and we’ve found some of the best burger recipes that we can’t wait to make.
From Greek turkey burgers to a decadent mushroom option that’s completely plant-based, these best burger recipes deserve a spot on your cooking bucket list. Each is packed with flavor, easy to customize, and full of whole foods ingredients that keep your nutrition in mind. If you do find a new favorite, promise to let us know!
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1. Tender Greek Turkey Burgers
Courtesy of Killing Thyme
The secret to making a turkey burger taste delicious instead of dry? Load it up with flavor. Here, garlic, kalamata olives, briny capers, feta cheese, red onion, and plenty of spices ensure that every bite will knock your socks off. Loading the patty up with tzatziki sauce, cucumbers, and roasted red peppers doesn’t hurt either. A standard burger bun will work here, but a whole wheat pita could be nice, too. Or simply place it atop a salad, and you’ve got a lovely meal.
Try the recipe from Killing Thyme.
2. Vegan Mushroom Veggie Burger
Courtesy of Zestful Kitchen
Roasted mushrooms keep the patties firm and flavorful without much filler. Chickpeas are chock full of protein and fiber. And miso adds deep richness and even more protein. Fair warning: These burgers take a little time, but they’re totally worth it. Plus, they can be made ahead and frozen, ready to be cooked whenever you’re craving a burger.
Try the recipe from Zestful Kitchen.
3. Smash Burgers with House Sauce
Courtesy of Pinch of Yum
Okay, so a smash burger may not sound particularly healthy, but hear us out. If you’re using grass-fed and finished beef (and we think you should!), the meat can be on the dry side. Work tiny pieces of chilled (grass-fed) butter into the beef and problem solved! This might be the most deliciously easy way to up the ante in terms of juiciness. Looking for more fiber? Double up on veggies and use a whole-grain bun.
Try the recipe from Pinch of Yum.
4. Mediterranean Lamb Burger With Tapenade Mayo, Arugula, and Feta
Courtesy of Salt and Wind
This recipe takes full advantage of lamb’s unique flavors and pairs them with even more goodness. Cucumbers make it crunchy, red onion makes it a little zippy, and arugula adds a delicately bitter note. If you avoid dairy, skip the cheese, but make sure you have plenty of tapenade mayo, a super-simple 2-ingredient condiment made with olive tapenade and good-quality mayo.
Try the recipe from Salt and Wind.
5. Salmon Burgers
Courtesy of Well Plated
These burgers aren’t your traditional salmon burgers and therein lies their secret. Made with diced salmon (instead of canned salmon), they use Greek yogurt to bind them, lemon juice for brightness, and plenty of herbs. Top them with even more Greek yogurt and fresh herbs, and serve on a bun or over a simple salad of arugula, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Try the recipe from Well Plated.
Read next: We Ate a Lot of Veggie Burgers and Found a Clear Winner
The post The 5 Best Burger Recipes You’ll Want to Make ASAP appeared first on Clean Plates.