Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a satisfying, wholesome meal packed with flavor, look no further than these Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce. This delicious plant-based twist on the classic burger combines earthy lentils with vibrant spices, crispy edges, and a creamy, tangy sauce that takes every bite to the next level. Super easy to whip up and bursting with color, these burgers are the answer for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing friends at your next cookout—without even a hint of compromise in taste or satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, yet each one adds its own unique flair. By combining pantry staples with a few fresh items, you’ll create a burger that’s hearty, colorful, and absolutely delicious.

• Cooked lentils: These are the core of the patties—soft, earthy, and perfect for binding everything together.
• Rolled oats: Oats help absorb excess moisture and hold the burgers’ shape, while adding a lovely chewy texture.
• Carrots: Grated carrots add subtle sweetness, color, and a nutritious boost to every patty.
• Red onion: Finely diced onion brings a sharp, zesty bite that beautifully balances the earthiness of the lentils.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a deep, aromatic backbone of flavor.
• Ground cumin: This spice delivers warm, savory notes that make the patties irresistible.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and rich color—an absolute must for boldness.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brings brightness, freshness, and a splash of green to the burger mix.
• Egg (or flax egg): This is the secret to holding your burgers together—choose flaxseed for a vegan option.
• Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing every flavor in the mix.
• Olive oil: Use for pan-frying the patties, lending them a delicious golden crust.
• Greek yogurt: Serves as the creamy base for the tangy herb sauce—feel free to use a plant-based yogurt if desired.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness to the yogurt herb sauce, lifting all the other flavors.
• Chopped fresh herbs (dill, mint, parsley): These pack the yogurt sauce with unbelievable freshness and aroma.
• Salt & pepper (for the sauce): Rounds off the herb sauce, making every spoonful pop.

How to Make Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Lentil Mixture

Start by mashing the cooked lentils in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a mix of mostly mashed with a few whole lentils for texture. Add the rolled oats, grated carrots, diced red onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, fresh parsley, an egg (or flax egg if you prefer vegan), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until thoroughly combined and let the mixture rest for about five minutes so the oats can absorb some moisture. This makes shaping the patties much easier!

Step 2: Shape and Pan-Fry the Patties

Scoop out generous portions of the lentil mixture (about a heaping quarter cup per patty) and shape them into burger-sized rounds using your hands. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a glug of olive oil. When the pan is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until deeply golden and crisp on the outside. Work in batches if needed and add more oil between batches to keep the patties frying up perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Yogurt Herb Sauce

In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, chopped fresh herbs (think dill, mint, or parsley), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and taste for seasoning—you want it tangy and herby, with a little zing from the lemon. Chill in the fridge while you finish the burgers so the flavors can mingle and intensify.

Step 4: Assemble the Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce

Slice your favorite buns, toast them if desired, and get ready to stack! Spread a generous swoosh of the yogurt herb sauce on each bun, add a crispy lentil patty, and whatever toppings you love—lettuce, tomato, cucumber, or even quick pickled onions. Crown with the bun top and get ready to enjoy one epic plant-based burger.

How to Serve Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce

Garnishes

Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce truly shine with all the right finishing touches. Try a scattering of extra fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a tangy heap of pickled red onions. A handful of peppery arugula or fresh sprouts adds freshness and crunch that beautifully complements the rich, creamy sauce and hearty burger.

Side Dishes

Classic fries or sweet potato wedges naturally pair well, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box. A simple cucumber-tomato salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of spiced couscous all make excellent matches for Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce. These sides keep it light and colorful and let the burger be the star.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to go beyond the bun, serve your lentil patties over a hearty grain bowl with greens, veggies, and a dollop of yogurt herb sauce. Or turn them into sliders for parties! Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce also work beautifully stuffed into pita pockets or deconstructed as a salad topping—just break up the patty and drizzle everything with the bright sauce for maximum flavor in each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover lentil burgers in an airtight container in the fridge, separating layers with parchment to prevent sticking. The yogurt herb sauce can be kept in a sealed jar or container in the fridge as well. Both will stay fresh and tasty for up to four days, making Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce a go-to for meal prep and quick lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to plan even further ahead, shape and cook the patties, then let them cool completely before wrapping each one individually. Pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to three months. The yogurt herb sauce, however, is best made fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated lentil burgers by placing them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also warm them in a skillet with a touch of oil for a fresh-from-the-pan crunch. Avoid microwaving, which can leave them a little soggy—oven or skillet is the best way to revive their tasty texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to drain and rinse canned lentils thoroughly to remove any excess salt, then pat them dry so the patties don’t end up too wet. Canned lentils work perfectly in Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce.

How can I make these burgers vegan?

Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes), and use your favorite plant-based yogurt for the herb sauce. With these simple swaps, Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce become completely plant-based.

What herbs work best in the yogurt sauce?

Dill, mint, and parsley are all classic choices, but feel free to mix and match based on your favorites or what’s on hand. A little chopped chive or cilantro would also be fantastic in the yogurt herb sauce for another twist on Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce.

Can I bake the lentil burgers instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Place formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with a little oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through—they’ll turn out hearty and golden with less hands-on time.

What toppings pair well with Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce?

Get creative! Try crunchy lettuce, ripe tomato slices, cucumber ribbons, or tangy pickled onions. Sliced avocado or a handful of microgreens add creaminess and color, making every bite of Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce even more exciting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to shake up your burger game, give these Lentil Burgers with Yogurt Herb Sauce a try! They’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and sure to become a regular favorite whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to eat more plants. Let me know how you serve yours—these burgers are made for sharing!

Print