Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli) Recipe

If you love a burger that’s a little outside the box, bursting with color, flavor, and pure wow factor, this Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli) is about to become your new obsession! Imagine a thick, golden slab of squeaky halloumi nestled in a soft bun, loaded with juicy tomato, sweet onions, crisp lettuce, and drizzled generously with a creamy smoky aioli that’ll have you licking your fingers. It’s comfort food with a gourmet twist—ready in just 20 minutes!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to create a flavor-packed Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli) using just a handful of superstar ingredients. Each one truly matters—bringing vibrant color, punchy flavor, or irresistible texture to your burger masterpiece.

• Halloumi Cheese (7oz / 200g): The star ingredient! Halloumi’s unique “squeaky” bite and amazing grill-ability make it perfect for burgers that hold their shape and crisp up beautifully.
• Burger Buns (2): Choose sturdy, pillowy buns—the soft inside soaks up the aioli and holds every gorgeous layer in place.
• Red Onion (sliced): Adds a hit of sweetness and gentle crunch when grilled. You can use yellow onion if you prefer, but red brings an extra pop of color.
• Lettuce Leaves (2 pieces): For fresh, cool crunch. Romaine or butter lettuce both work well here.
• Tomato Slices (4): Juicy, ripe slices add freshness and that classic burger vibe.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2-3 teaspoons): Helps everything brown and adds savory Mediterranean flavor.
• Whole Egg Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Creates a creamy, rich base for the smoky aioli.
• Marinated Roasted Red Peppers (2oz / 55g): Bring sweetness, smokiness, and that beautiful orange-red hue to the aioli.
• Garlic (1 small clove, or 2 for garlic lovers): Lends irresistible warmth and depth—don’t skip it!
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, or adjust): Dial up the smoky heat to suit your taste buds.
• Lemon Juice (squeeze): Brightens up the aioli and ties all the flavors together.
• Pinch of Salt: Just a touch makes all the difference, enhancing every other flavor in this burger.

Variations

The beauty of the Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli) is how effortlessly it invites your own creative spin! Whether you want to highlight even more veggies, change up the sauce, or swap the bun, this recipe is your playground. Go ahead, make it truly your own!

• Low-Carb or Gluten-Free: Serve the grilled halloumi and toppings in lettuce wraps or your favorite gluten-free buns for a lighter take.
• Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños or an extra shake of red pepper flakes in the aioli if you love serious heat.
• Herb Lovers’ Dream: Mix some chopped fresh basil, parsley, or dill into the aioli or toss them on as a bright garnish.
• Add Grilled Veggies: Stack on grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or bell pepper slices for even more color and flavor.
• Vegan Swap: Try using a vegan halloumi-style cheese and vegan mayo—the smoky aioli is just as addictive!

How to Make Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli)

Step 1: Whip Up the Smoky Red Pepper Aioli

Start with the sauce, because let’s be honest—it makes the burger unforgettable! Combine mayo, drained roasted red peppers, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt in a blender or a jar if you’re using an immersion blender. Blend until totally smooth and creamy, then transfer it to a small bowl and stir in a squeeze of lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning until you’re head-over-heels in love with it.

Step 2: Prep and Grill the Halloumi

Slice your halloumi block into two generous slabs. Drizzle on a teaspoon of olive oil and rub it lovingly onto both sides—this helps it get those beautiful golden grill marks. Let the cheese sit while your pan heats up to medium, which gives the slices a little time to lose some of their brininess.

Step 3: Sizzle the Red Onions

On one half of your grill pan or skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil and toss in your sliced red onions with a sprinkle of salt. If you want them super soft and sweet, add a splash of water and let them gently caramelize as you prep the rest. The aroma is irresistible!

Step 4: Grill the Halloumi and Toast the Buns

Once the onions are nearly golden and melting, drizzle a bit more olive oil on the free side of the pan and lay down your halloumi slices. Let them fry undisturbed for 2–3 minutes so they form a gorgeous crust and signature grill marks. Flip, and repeat on the other side. While the cheese cooks, split your buns and toast them (cut side down!) for extra crunch and warmth.

Step 5: Build Your Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli)

Time for the fun part! Smear a generous dollop of that luscious aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Stack with lettuce, tomato slices (sprinkle a bit of salt for extra flavor), and the sweet, tender onions. Gently place your freshly grilled halloumi right on top, add another smear of aioli to the top bun if desired, crown your creation, and devour while warm and melty!

How to Serve Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli)

Garnishes

This burger is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, so go wild with garnishes! Sprinkle over some extra red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or basil for a punch of color and freshness. A little squeeze of lemon just before serving livens everything up, and if you’re feeling playful, a few pickled onions add tang and crunch.

Side Dishes

For the ultimate meal, pair your Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli) with sweet potato fries, crisp oven-roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even a Mediterranean quinoa salad. The salty halloumi and decadent aioli really come alive with something fresh or starchy on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

These burgers are stunning as is, but you can up the wow factor by skewering each with a fancy toothpick and a mini gherkin, or by serving open-faced for a colorful, knife-and-fork presentation. For a brunch crowd, slice the assembled burgers into halves or quarters—everyone gets a perfect, melty cross-section in each bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (we doubt it!), store the grilled halloumi, onions, and aioli separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. The buns and fresh veggies are always best assembled just before eating for max freshness.

Freezing

Halloumi can technically be frozen, but for best taste and texture, we recommend grilling it fresh. However, the smoky red pepper aioli holds up beautifully in the freezer for up to one month—just thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.

Reheating

Revive leftover grilled halloumi by reheating quickly in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, just for a minute or so on each side. Avoid microwaving—it can turn rubbery. Freshly toasted buns and a swirl of that aioli will make your leftovers feel brand new!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If burgers excite you and you crave bold, cheesy, utterly delicious flavors, this Halloumi Burger (with Smoky Red Pepper Aioli) will hit every spot. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and treat yourselves—one bite and you’ll know why this one’s a forever favorite. Enjoy!

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