Your Go-To Summer Burger
If you’re ready for a next-level veggie burger, let’s talk halloumi. This magical cheese handles high heat without melting, making it a total dream for grilling and making burgers. Inspired by the famous Hello Fresh halloumi burger, our homemade version takes things up a notch with warm, pan-fried tomatoes (it’s epic, friends). Pan-frying them releases a juicy sweetness that pairs ridiculously well with the crispy yet creamy halloumi. And the best part? These burgers come together in 20 minutes (seriously, prep takes longer than cooking!). So, let me show you how to make the most epic burger you’ll be making on repeat all summer.
Grab These Ingredients
You only need 8 ingredients to make halloumi burgers! Jump down to the recipe card for exact measurements—this is just an overview.
Halloumi: What kind of cheese doesn’t melt but just gets creamier when heated? I mean, what is this sorcery? Grab some halloumi at any grocery store or specialty cheese shop. Tomatoes: Tomatoes add the perfect acidity and sweetness. Beefsteak or salad tomatoes are great here! Spices: I love oregano, salt, and pepper to season the cheese and tomato. Oregano and halloumi are both Mediterranean, so it only makes sense they taste awesome together. Lettuce: A good burger always needs that crisp, refreshing crunch. Butterhead lettuce or iceberg are both good options! Burger Buns: Any buns will work! Gluten-free, whole wheat, bakery-style, thins—whatever floats your boat. Garlic Mayo: For this burger, we’ll need some mayo and minced garlic (what sauce dreams are made of in my book). Garlic is measured with the heart, so while I recommend a quantity, feel free to add more if that is what your heart is telling you.
Making Halloumi Burgers Is Simple
These veggie burgers are way too easy to make—no meat thermometers needed here! (Jump to the recipe card for the full printable instructions.) Step 1: Prep The ComponentsCut the halloumi in half to create patties, and slice the tomato into thick slabs. Sprinkle all the slices evenly with oregano and pepper, then get your burger buns toasting. Step 2: Let’s Get SaucyMix the mayo and minced garlic with a fork in a bowl or a blender (depending on the level of garlickyness you’re looking for). Step 3: Cook The Cheese And TomatoesAdd a splash of oil or cooking spray to a large non-stick pan and set over high heat. Add the halloumi and tomato slabs, cooking both sides until charred. Step 4: Assemble The BurgersTime to make these bad boys! Spread mayo sauce on the bottom of both hamburger buns. Add a few pieces of lettuce, then the cheese and tomatoes. Close your halloumi burger up and enjoy!
Recipe tips
Pat The Halloumi: Before cooking, pat the halloumi slices with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps them brown more evenly and get that crispy outer layer. Avoid Overcrowding: Give each slice of halloumi enough room to breathe in the pan! Overcrowding can cause steaming, which prevents the cheese from getting that golden-brown and crispy exterior. Sauce Variations: For a unique twist, try Siracha or chipotle mayo. Or, add lemon juice to the garlic-mayo mixture for a zing. Customize Your Toppings: Halloumi pairs well with just about everything, so experiment with toppings! Think avocado, grilled or roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions.
Perfect Burger Pairings
No halloumi burger should be enjoyed alone—it’s way more fun with sides! Here are our top picks.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: Let’s be real, who doesn’t choose sweet potato fries when given the choice? Baked Zucchini Fries: A crispy, tasty way to use up garden zucchini and sneak in some extra veggies! Summer Veggie Salad: This refreshing side dish comes together quickly and makes the perfect match for juicy halloumi burgers.
