This burger bowl recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic burger, without the bun! Packed with juicy seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce, it’s a low-carb and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Customizable with your favorite toppings, this recipe delivers all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a fresh and wholesome bowl.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• Beef Mixture:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

• Burger Bowl Base:

  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup dill pickles, sliced
  • 1 small avocado, sliced

• Special Sauce:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp mustard
  • 1 tsp pickle juice
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika

Directions

1. Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until well combined.
3. Assemble the Bowl: In serving bowls, layer chopped romaine lettuce as the base. Evenly distribute cooked beef, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, red onion, dill pickles, and avocado slices.
4. Drizzle & Serve: Drizzle the special sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 28g

What is a Burger Bowl?

A burger bowl is a deconstructed version of a classic cheeseburger served in a bowl instead of a bun. It includes all the essential burger components—seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, cheese, pickles, and a special sauce—but without the extra carbs from bread. This dish is a popular choice among those following low-carb, keto, or paleo diets, as it provides the same great taste in a healthier format.

Why Choose a Burger Bowl?

Burger bowls offer a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional burgers while maintaining their satisfying and hearty appeal. Here are a few key reasons why they’ve become a go-to meal option:

• Low-Carb Alternative – By removing the bun, this meal becomes significantly lower in carbohydrates, making it ideal for keto and low-carb diets.
• Customizable – You can modify the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, whether you want a leaner protein, extra veggies, or a dairy-free version.
• Quick and Easy – With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, burger bowls make for an effortless lunch or dinner.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of juicy, well-seasoned beef, crunchy vegetables, creamy avocado, and a tangy special sauce ensures a satisfying bite every time.

Variations of the Burger Bowl

One of the best things about burger bowls is their versatility. You can modify them based on different cuisines and flavors:

• Tex-Mex Burger Bowl: Add jalapeños, black beans, salsa, and a spicy chipotle sauce.
• Greek Burger Bowl: Use lamb or turkey, top with feta cheese, cucumbers, olives, and drizzle with tzatziki sauce.
• BBQ Burger Bowl: Swap the special sauce for smoky barbecue sauce and top with caramelized onions and coleslaw.
• Asian-Inspired Burger Bowl: Add sesame ginger dressing, shredded carrots, and kimchi for a unique twist.

The Origin of Burger Bowls

The concept of a bunless burger has been around for years, particularly among health-conscious individuals. Restaurants have offered lettuce-wrapped burgers as a gluten-free option, but the idea of serving all the ingredients in a bowl gained popularity with the rise of low-carb and keto-friendly diets. Instead of wrapping a burger in lettuce, many realized that assembling the components in a bowl created a more balanced and visually appealing dish.

Best Toppings for a Burger Bowl

One of the best things about a burger bowl is its versatility. While the classic combination includes lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, onions, and pickles, there are endless ways to customize it. Here are some popular toppings:

• Avocado or Guacamole – Adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Bacon – Enhances the flavor with a smoky, crispy bite.
• Fried Egg – Creates a rich and indulgent experience.
• Grilled Mushrooms – Adds an umami depth of flavor.
• Jalapeños – Provides a spicy kick.
• Sauteed Onions – A caramelized sweetness balances the flavors.

The Secret to the Best Burger Bowl Sauce

The sauce is what truly brings all the ingredients together. A combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, and seasonings creates a tangy and slightly sweet dressing that mimics the flavor of a classic burger sauce. Some variations include Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative.

How to Meal Prep Burger Bowls

Burger bowls are an excellent meal prep option since the ingredients stay fresh for several days. Here’s how to prepare them in advance:

• Cook the beef ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Chop vegetables like lettuce, onions, and tomatoes, and store them separately to maintain freshness.
• Prepare the sauce and keep it in a small jar or container.
• Assemble before eating to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy.

Dietary Modifications and Substitutions

If you have specific dietary needs, burger bowls can be easily adjusted:

• Keto-Friendly – Stick to low-carb vegetables, use full-fat cheese, and ensure the sauce has no added sugar.
• Dairy-Free – Omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
• Vegetarian – Use a plant-based ground meat substitute or a grilled portobello mushroom instead of beef.
• Gluten-Free – Ensure that all ingredients, especially condiments, are gluten-free.

What to Serve with a Burger Bowl

A burger bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with side dishes for extra variety. Some great options include:

• Sweet potato fries for a nutritious, slightly sweet contrast.
• Zucchini chips for a crunchy and low-carb side.
• Coleslaw for added freshness and crunch.
• Cauliflower rice for a more filling dish while staying low-carb.

Conclusion

The burger bowl is the perfect solution for anyone craving a classic burger flavor in a healthier, low-carb format. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking for a fresh way to enjoy a burger, this dish is a must-try. With the right combination of ingredients and toppings, you can enjoy all the flavors of a burger without the guilt, making it a staple in your meal rotation.