Get ready to elevate your burger game with a mouthwatering Greek classic that will make your kitchen smell like a Mediterranean paradise! These Herb Greek Burgers, known as Biftekia, are not just another burger recipe – they're a culinary journey that combines the rich, bold flavors of traditional Greek cuisine with the comfort of a perfectly crafted patty. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, herb-infused burger that's bursting with fresh parsley, aromatic oregano, and perfectly seasoned ground beef – this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped fresh parsley, finely diced onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Crack the egg into the mixture and use your hands to thoroughly blend all ingredients, ensuring even distribution of herbs and seasonings. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the burgers tough.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and make the meat easier to shape.
- Remove mixture from refrigerator and divide into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into oval-shaped patties approximately 3/4 inch thick, creating a slight indentation in the center to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking.
- Cook the biftekia for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring they are fully cooked but still juicy.
- Let the burgers rest for 3-4 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Serve hot, optionally accompanied by tzatziki sauce, pita bread, or a fresh Greek salad.
Tips
- Don't overwork the meat: Mix ingredients gently to keep the burgers tender and juicy.
- Refrigerate the mixture before shaping: This helps the flavors meld and makes the meat easier to handle.
- Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect doneness – aim for 160°F (71°C) internal temperature.
- Let the burgers rest after cooking to redistribute the juices and maintain maximum moisture.
- For an authentic Greek experience, serve with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, or a crisp Greek salad.
- If you don't have a grill, a cast-iron skillet works wonderfully for achieving a delicious sear.
- For extra flavor, try using a mix of ground beef and lamb for a more traditional Greek taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
