Halloumi Burgers

Name: Halloumi Burgers
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 500 grams Halloumi cheese (2 blocks), sliced in half; 4 hamburger buns, sliced in half; 2 cups microgreens; 1 small red onion, sliced; 4 slices tomato, 1/4-inch thick; ½ cup tzatziki sauce

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Halloumi Burgers are a quick and flavorful meatless burger option that even carnivores will love. Perfectly golden, pan-fried halloumi is layered on soft, toasted buns and topped with crisp microgreens, juicy tomato, red onion, and a generous dollop of creamy tzatziki. These burgers are a delicious, satisfying twist on your usual BBQ lineup and come together in under 15 minutes.

Halloumi Burgers are crispy, salty, and packed with Mediterranean flavor. A quick and easy vegetarian burger ready in 15 minutes! | aheadofthyme.com

This easy vegetarian burger is all about balance: salty, squeaky cheese meets cool, tangy sauce and fresh toppings, making each bite vibrant and well-rounded. Whether you're grilling outdoors or whipping up a weeknight dinner, this burger delivers on flavor and convenience. It also makes a great base for custom toppings, so you can switch things up based on what’s in your fridge.

Why You'll Love these Halloumi Burgers

Quick and easy. These burgers come together in just 15 minutes with minimal prep. Ideal for busy weeknights or low-effort meals, and they always hit the spot. You won’t believe how delicious a meatless option can be until you try this.
Crispy, salty goodness. Pan-fried halloumi has a golden, crispy crust and a squeaky, tender center. Its rich, salty flavor pairs perfectly with fresh and creamy toppings. The satisfying crunch and unique texture make each bite a crave-worthy experience.
Great for vegetarians. A hearty alternative to beef burgers, halloumi adds bold flavor and satisfying texture. Even meat-lovers won’t miss the meat! It’s a fantastic option for Meatless Mondays or when you’re feeding a crowd with mixed preferences.
Customizable and fresh. Add avocado, swap buns for lettuce wraps, or try different sauces. These burgers are easy to make your own with whatever toppings you like. It’s a great recipe to adapt for dietary preferences or what’s already in your fridge.

Ingredient Notes

To make these delicious Halloumi Burgers, you will need the following ingredients (full measurements in recipe card below):

extra virgin olive oil – for pan-frying the halloumi. You can also use avocado oil.
halloumi cheese – this firm, salty cheese fries beautifully. You can find it in most grocery stores near the specialty cheese section.
hamburger buns – use your favorite kind — brioche, whole wheat, or gluten-free all work well. We love using our Easy Homemade Hamburger Buns too. Toast the buns for extra flavor.
microgreens – these delicate greens add a fresh bite. Arugula or baby spinach make great substitutes.
red onion – adds a bit of crunch and sharpness. You can use pickled onions for a tangier flavor.
tomato – use ripe, juicy slices. Heirloom tomatoes or vine-ripened work best.
tzatziki sauce – creamy and garlicky, this cools and complements the salty cheese. You can use store-bought or homemade. Make our Easy Tzatziki Sauce (Yogurt Cucumber Dip) in minutes.

You will also need measuring cups and spoons, a skillet or grill pan, cutting board, knife, spatula, and paper towels.

How to Make the Best Halloumi Burgers

Fry halloumi. In a large non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium heat until the hot oil sizzles, about 1-2 minutes. Add halloumi and fry until browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Set aside on a plate.

Assemble burgers. On the bottom half of each hamburger bun, add ½ cup microgreens (or a piece of lettuce) and a block of halloumi. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of tzatziki sauce on top, and top with red onion slices and a slice of tomato. Place the top half of the bun on top to assemble the burger.

Serve. Serve with a side of crispy french fries or a side salad such as coleslaw or macaroni salad.

Recipe Variations

Add avocado. For creaminess and richness, layer in slices of ripe avocado. It balances the saltiness of the halloumi and adds healthy fats.
Try a different sauce. Swap tzatziki with garlic aioli, hummus, or spicy yogurt sauce. Each variation offers a new spin on flavor.
Use a lettuce wrap. Skip the bun for a low-carb version. Wrap the ingredients in sturdy lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce.
Grill instead of pan-fry. Toss the halloumi slices on the grill for added smokiness. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Add grilled veggies. Roasted red peppers, eggplant, or zucchini slices add smoky depth and work well with the salty cheese.

How to Serve

These Halloumi Burgers are delicious served on its own, or paired with some of my favorite summer sides including:

For more summer sides, see our 25+ Best BBQ Side Dishes.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Pat the halloumi dry. Removing excess moisture ensures better browning and prevents sticking. Press lightly with paper towels before cooking. This step is key for achieving crisp edges.
Use a hot pan. A properly preheated skillet helps create a crispy crust. Medium-high heat is best for a quick sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan for best results.
Slice evenly. Uniform halloumi slices cook more evenly. Aim for about ½ inch thick to hold shape and melt slightly. Thinner slices may break apart or overcook.
Toast the buns. Toasted buns resist sogginess and add texture. Butter lightly before toasting for extra flavor.
Assemble just before serving. This keeps the burger components fresh and prevents the buns from getting soggy. Serve immediately for best texture.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

How to Store

Store any leftover cooked halloumi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store toppings separately for best texture.

How to Reheat

Reheat halloumi in a skillet over medium heat until warmed and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the texture rubbery.

How to Freeze

Freezing is not recommended for cooked halloumi, as the texture may become crumbly. However, uncooked halloumi can be frozen for up to 3 months.

FAQ

Can I make halloumi burgers ahead of time?

You can prep the toppings and slice the cheese in advance, but cook the halloumi just before serving for best texture and flavor. It’s best enjoyed fresh, as reheating doesn’t always restore that ideal crispy crust.

Where can I find halloumi cheese?

Halloumi is usually found in the cheese section of most grocery stores, near feta or specialty cheeses. You can also find it at Mediterranean or Middle Eastern markets. Some stores even carry flavored versions for variety.

Is halloumi supposed to melt?

No, halloumi doesn’t melt like mozzarella. It softens and browns when cooked, developing a crispy exterior and chewy, squeaky center. This makes it ideal for grilling or frying without losing its shape.

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