Mediterranean Lamb Sliders

Name: Mediterranean Lamb Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 pound ground lamb; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 mini slider buns; 1 cup cucumber, sliced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love making Mediterranean Lamb Sliders for my family and friends. Each time, I get so excited to see their faces light up as they taste these juicy, flavorful bites. The combination of herbs, spices, and that rich lamb flavor creates a beautiful harmony that transports me straight to the Mediterranean coast. Served on soft mini buns with fresh toppings, these sliders are a hit for gatherings and are perfect for an elevated game night or casual dinner party.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:22:30.316Z

When I first experimented with these Mediterranean Lamb Sliders, I wanted to create something vibrant and packed with flavor. My secret is to marinate the lamb with garlic, cumin, and fresh herbs like mint and parsley, which really enhance the meat's richness. They come together quickly and are great for feeding a crowd. I usually prepare a tangy yogurt sauce on the side which adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the sliders.

I've learned that using a mix of ground lamb with a little bit of fat helps keep these sliders moist and juicy. Cooking them on a grill pan gives them a lovely char without losing any juiciness. Don’t forget to toast the buns lightly; it takes these sliders to a whole new level! You can also customize the toppings to suit your taste.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Juicy lamb infused with Mediterranean spices
Perfectly balanced toppings for a satisfying bite
Great for entertaining or a quick weeknight meal

      

Crafting the Perfect Lamb Patties

When preparing the lamb sliders, precision is key for the perfect patty. Ground lamb is known for its rich flavor, but it also has a higher fat content compared to other meats. Mixing it gently with spices and herbs not only allows for even distribution but also prevents the patties from becoming tough. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so I recommend mixing just until combined. Aim for slider patties about 2 inches wide, about three-quarters of an inch thick, which will cook evenly and remain juicy.

After shaping the patties, let them rest for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and the fat to redistribute, ensuring that the sliders stay moist during cooking. While resting, preheat your grill pan to medium-high heat—this temperature is crucial for achieving a good sear. A well-heated pan will create a nice crust, adding texture and enhancing flavor. You should see a bit of smoke rising from the pan before you place the patties in.

Elevating Your Toppings

While the lamb is the star of the show, the right toppings elevate these sliders to new heights. The fresh cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color. I prefer using a sharp knife to ensure thin, even slices of red onion, as a thicker cut can overwhelm the flavor balance. The tangy yogurt sauce enhanced with lemon juice ties everything together, adding creaminess that counters the rich lamb perfectly, making each bite a delightful contrast.

Feel free to customize your toppings! If you're looking for a dairy-free option, replacing yogurt with a tahini dressing or a dairy-free yogurt can offer a similar creamy texture. Fresh arugula or spinach can also substitute for the classic toppings for an extra peppery bite. Experiment with adding pickled vegetables for acidity or feta cheese crumbles for a salty kick, depending on your taste preferences.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftover sliders or patties, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve their juiciness—avoid using a microwave which can dry them out. Alternatively, if you're preparing for a gathering, you can make the patties ahead of time and freeze them. Just shape them and freeze them flat on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer, simply increasing the cooking time by a couple of minutes.

Serving these sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a simple Greek salad can create a complete meal. For a fun presentation at gatherings, provide an array of toppings and let guests build their sliders. This interactive element is not only enjoyable but also allows everyone to customize their experience—perfect for a casual dinner party or game night!

Ingredients

For the Lamb Sliders

1 pound ground lamb
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
12 mini slider buns

For the Toppings

1 cup cucumber, sliced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Prepare the Lamb Mixture

In a bowl, combine the ground lamb, minced garlic, cumin, mint, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Form the Sliders

Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape them into slider patties.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the lamb sliders for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach the desired doneness.

Prepare Toppings

While the sliders are cooking, mix the yogurt with lemon juice and season with salt to taste.

Assemble the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly. Place the cooked lamb patty on each bun and top with cucumber, tomato, onion, and a dollop of yogurt sauce. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added punch, consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese on top of each slider before serving.

Key Ingredient Insights

The ground lamb is crucial for this recipe, as its natural fats contribute to the moistness and rich flavor of the sliders. When selecting lamb, look for meat that has a vibrant red color and smooth texture. If you’re unsure about lamb, ground beef can be used as a substitute, though it will bring a different flavor profile. Remember to adjust seasoning, as beef is often not as flavorful as lamb and may require a touch more spice.

Herbs like fresh mint and parsley offer not only flavor but also a refreshing aromatic quality that is essential for Mediterranean cuisine. Fresh herbs are far superior to dried in this recipe; they provide vibrant color and a bright taste that complements the richness of the lamb. If you're short on fresh herbs, a smaller amount of dried can be used, but be sure to adjust the quantities accordingly.

Preparing for a Crowd

If you’re hosting a larger gathering, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests. A mixed platter of sliders with a variety of toppings can be a big hit. Just remember, the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the patties, so keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer for precision—aim for an internal temperature of 160°F for well-cooked lamb patties.

Setting up a slider bar can create an exciting and interactive dining experience. Offer different types of sauces, like a spicy harissa or a garlicky aioli, along with thoughtful sides like roasted vegetables or couscous salad. This way, you can cater to various tastes while keeping your guests engaged in the meal preparation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef, but the flavor profile will be different. Lamb adds a unique richness.

→ Are these sliders freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties and cook them directly from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to add feta cheese, arugula, or even pickled vegetables for a different twist.

→ How do I know when lamb is cooked through?

For ground lamb, it should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be safely consumed.