These keto feta burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with a creamy tomato sauce, they’re the perfect mix of tasty and healthy—great for anyone watching carbs.
Cooking these burgers feels like a mini celebration! I love how the creamy sauce makes the burger extra special. Just add a side salad, and you’re ready for a fun dinner! 🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too, but they may need some extra seasoning to boost flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds wonderful tanginess. If you can’t find feta, try goat cheese or ricotta for a different texture and flavor profile. Just keep in mind that goat cheese is creamier and ricotta is milder.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, you can substitute half and half. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk can work in a pinch, though the flavor will vary.
Tomato Paste: Tomato sauce can replace it if needed; however, you should reduce the amount to keep the thickness. Keep in mind that tomato sauce will also increase the sauce’s liquid content.
How Do I Keep My Burgers Juicy and Tender?
Mixing the ingredients well is important, but you want to be gentle. Overmixing can make the burgers tough. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine ground beef, feta, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Use your hands to mix gently—until just combined is key! This keeps air in the mixture, making it light.
- Shape the patties thick but not too compact. About an inch thick works well.
- Cook on medium-high heat for a nice sear, locking in that juicy flavor.
Following these tips will give you deliciously juicy burgers that you’re sure to love!
Keto Feta Burgers With Tomato Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Tomato Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (divided: 1/2 tsp for sauce, 1/2 tsp for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 15 minutes on preparation and around 20 minutes cooking. Altogether, this delicious dish will take you about 35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crumbled feta, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep the burgers tender!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a thick patty, making them about an inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness and form a nice crust. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside, covering them to keep warm.
4. Make the Tomato Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the pan (that’s where the flavor is!).
5. Add Cream and Feta:
Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring, creating a smooth mixture. After that, add the 1/3 cup of crumbled feta and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Keep stirring continuously until the feta melts and the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Burgers and Sauce:
Return the cooked burger patties to the skillet, spooning the tomato cream sauce over them. Let everything heat together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Plate and Garnish:
Carefully plate the burgers, spoon extra sauce over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley, small feta crumbles, and a light sprinkle of smoked paprika for an inviting look.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot, and feel free to pair these delicious burgers with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh keto-friendly salad. Enjoy your meal!
These rich and creamy Keto Feta Burgers with Tomato Cream Sauce are not only satisfying but are also perfect for dinner that fits your ketogenic lifestyle!
Can I Use Different Meat for the Burgers?
Absolutely! While ground beef gives the best flavor and juiciness, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware that leaner meats might need extra seasoning for flavor and may cook faster, so monitor them closely.
How Can I Make These Burgers Dairy-Free?
If you want to make the burgers dairy-free, you can replace the feta cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely. For the sauce, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can make the tomato cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving, and you might want to add a splash of cream to refresh its consistency.
What Should I Serve With These Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a low-carb meal. You can also serve them with zucchini noodles or lettuce wraps for a fun, keto-friendly twist!