Ever since I started focusing on protein first, I’ve noticed more energy and a healthier body overall. And while I have no problem eating a little plain ground beef with a meal, it can get boring sometimes. These burger bowls are a great way to get all the flavors of a classic burger, without the burger buns.
It’s a low-carb, gluten-free, high-protein meal that’s a hit with my whole family. We like it for a quick and easy lunch or a fast weeknight dinner. I love that each family member can customize the toppings to what they like. So even the child who won’t eat tomatoes still loves this burger bowl!
You can also make the meat and sauce in advance and reheat the meat as needed. This is an even easier way to include it in your meal plans. Here’s how to make a cheeseburger in a bowl with plenty of fresh veggies and flavorful sauce!
Burger Bowl Recipe (Easy and Healthy)
Servings
Equipment
- Quad meat chopper (optional)
Ingredients
For the Burger Meat:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Salad:
- iceberg or Romaine lettuce (chopped)
- tomatoes (sliced)
- pickles (sliced)
- red onion (sliced)
- shredded cheddar cheese (optional, or your favorite cheese)
For the Special Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (Primal Kitchen or homemade)
- 1 TBSP ketchup
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1 TBSP dill pickle juice
- 1 TBSP dill relish
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp apple cider vinegar (or to taste)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and all the seasonings: onion powder, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula (or my favorite kitchen tool), until browned and fully cooked through (about 7–10 minutes). Set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, dill relish, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and vinegar. Start with ½ teaspoon of vinegar, taste, and adjust if you want a little more tang.
- In individual bowls, layer a generous base of lettuce, then top with tomatoes, pickles, red onion, and cheese if using. Add a scoop of the cooked ground beef.
- Spoon the special burger sauce generously over the top.
Nutrition
Notes
- Customize the toppings to your liking. Try adding different cheeses, bacon, chives, etc.
Customize the Ingredients
Really you can add any of your favorite burger toppings to this recipe. Cook a little chopped onion in olive oil for sauteed onions. Crumble up crispy bacon, add some chives, avocado, or use cherry tomatoes. You can even substitute the beef for ground turkey if preferred. Try cooking the meat with a little Worcestershire sauce for even more flavor!
While this dish is easily a full meal in itself, you can add some sides to it. It’s great with French fries, sweet potato fries, or parsnip fries from the air fryer. You can even top it with a fried egg and make it a breakfast!
Final Thoughts
Not only is it delicious, but these burger bowls check all the boxes for a healthy, filling meal. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and creamy special sauce makes for a delicious meal without the carbs. And it’s easy to meal prep for busy moms.
What are your favorite cheeseburger toppings? Leave a comment and let us know!
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