Mediterranean Grilled Onion Ring Burger Stacks
Mediterranean Grilled Onion Ring Burger Stacks take the classic burger to a bold, flavorful level. Juicy grilled patties are layered with crispy onion rings, fresh herbs, and Mediterranean-inspired toppings like feta, olives, and yogurt-based sauces. The result is a burger that is indulgent yet balanced, smoky yet fresh. Perfect for weekend grilling, casual dinners, or even a show-stopping meal for friends, these stacks bring texture, flavor, and a touch of Mediterranean flair to every bite.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 to 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Burgers
Ground beef, lamb, or chicken: 500 g (1 lb)
Onion, finely grated: ½ medium
Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
Ground cumin: ½ teaspoon
Sea salt: 1 teaspoon
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for grilling
For the Onion Rings
Large onion, sliced into rings: 1 large
Chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour): ½ cup
Water: ½ cup
Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon
Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
Olive oil or avocado oil: 2 tablespoons for grilling or pan-frying
For Assembly
Whole-grain burger buns or ciabatta rolls: 4
Feta cheese, crumbled: ½ cup
Sliced tomato: 1 medium
Fresh lettuce or arugula: 1 cup
Yogurt-tahini sauce: 4 tablespoons
Pickled olives or cucumber slices (optional): ¼ cup
Instructions
1. Prepare the Burgers
In a bowl, mix ground meat with grated onion, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Form into 4 evenly sized patties.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat, brush with olive oil.
Grill patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Set aside to rest.
2. Make the Onion Rings
In a bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to form a smooth batter.
Dip onion rings in the batter, letting excess drip off.
Heat a grill pan or skillet with oil over medium heat.
Cook onion rings for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble the Burger Stacks
Slice buns in half and lightly toast on the grill or skillet.
Spread yogurt-tahini sauce on the bottom bun.
Place a burger patty on top.
Add a layer of onion rings, crumbled feta, sliced tomato, and lettuce.
Add pickled olives or cucumbers if using.
Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips
Use freshly grated onion in the patties for extra moisture and flavor.
Rest patties for 2–3 minutes before stacking to retain juices.
Chickpea flour creates a crispier, gluten-free coating for onion rings.
Lightly toast buns to prevent sogginess.
Use a spatula for gentle flipping to avoid breaking onion rings.
For smoky flavor, grill burgers over medium-high heat.
Yogurt-tahini sauce can be seasoned with lemon and garlic for brightness.
Assemble just before serving to maintain crispiness.
Add herbs like mint or parsley for extra Mediterranean aroma.
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
Variations
Swap ground beef for lamb or turkey.
Use halloumi slices instead of feta for a gooey, grilled option.
Add roasted red peppers for sweetness.
Use sweet potato fries as a side or even layered inside.
Make mini sliders for appetizers.
Add a fried egg on top for brunch-style stacks.
Spice up the batter with cayenne or chili flakes.
Use pita bread instead of buns for a Mediterranean twist.
Add tzatziki or hummus as a sauce alternative.
Top with caramelized onions for added sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the onion rings instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Are these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free buns and chickpea flour.
Can I make patties ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Is yogurt-tahini sauce necessary?
No, but it adds creaminess and a Mediterranean flavor.
How do I keep onion rings crispy?
Assemble burgers just before serving and avoid steaming under a lid.
Can I use frozen meat?
Thaw completely before forming patties.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes. Mild flavors, crispy textures, and fun stacking appeal to kids.
Can I grill outdoors?
Absolutely. Perfect for summer cookouts.
What sides work well?
Salads, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Use grilled halloumi or a plant-based patty.
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving Approximate)
Calories: 520
Protein: 32 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fat: 28 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: Moderate
Calcium: High (from feta and yogurt)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Grilled Onion Ring Burger Stacks are the ultimate fusion of indulgence and fresh Mediterranean flavors. Crispy onion rings, juicy patties, tangy feta, and a creamy sauce make each bite exciting and satisfying. They are perfect for casual meals, gatherings, or a flavorful twist on classic burgers. Simple to assemble yet visually impressive, these stacks turn any meal into a celebratory occasion.