Burger in a Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of burgers but looking to skip the carbs, this Burger in a Bowl recipe is perfect for you. It’s quick, customizable, and full of all the bold flavors of a classic burger. You’ll get tender beef, crunchy veggies, melted cheese, and a delicious sauce, all in a satisfying, deconstructed form. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add your favorite toppings or dressings to make it your own. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just want a fun twist on the usual burger, this recipe hits the spot!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
• 1/2 cup lettuce, chopped
• 1/4 cup tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Optional: bacon crumbles, avocado, or your favorite burger toppings

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the beef for 7-10 minutes until fully browned and cooked through.
4. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat, if necessary, and stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
5. While the beef is cooking, prepare the toppings. Chop the lettuce, dice the tomato, slice the pickles, and thinly slice the red onion.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard to make the sauce.
7. To assemble the bowl, start with a base of lettuce, then top with the seasoned beef mixture, tomatoes, pickles, and red onion.
8. Drizzle the sauce over the top, and add any additional toppings like bacon or avocado if desired.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Keto-friendly: Skip the ketchup and opt for sugar-free alternatives, and use a low-carb dressing.
• Grilled Chicken Burger Bowl: Swap out the beef for grilled chicken breast for a lighter option.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based ground meat or lentils and skip the cheese to make it vegan-friendly.
• Add more veggies: Include additional veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives for more crunch and flavor.
• Cheese variations: Try different types of cheese, like Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese, to change the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Burger in a Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add fresh toppings like lettuce or tomatoes just before serving to maintain their crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can easily swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef and toppings ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the bowl just before serving to keep the veggies fresh and crispy.

3. Can I add a bun to this recipe?

While this recipe is designed to be a low-carb version of a burger, you can always add a small bun on the side if you prefer.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free condiments if you are highly sensitive to gluten.

5. How do I make this dairy-free?

Skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives to make the dish dairy-free.

6. Can I freeze leftovers?

While the beef mixture can be frozen, it’s best to store the toppings separately and add them fresh when you reheat the beef.

7. How spicy is this recipe?

The recipe itself isn’t spicy, but you can add spicy elements like hot sauce, jalapeños, or spicy mustard to customize the heat level to your taste.

8. Can I add bacon to this bowl?

Yes, adding crispy bacon crumbles is a great way to enhance the flavor of this dish and make it even more indulgent.

9. How can I make this bowl more filling?

For a more filling meal, add more protein, such as a boiled egg or extra meat, or serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or fries.

10. Can I use a different sauce than ketchup and mayo?

Absolutely! You can use BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Burger in a Bowl offers all the flavors of a classic burger but without the carbs, making it a perfect meal for anyone looking to eat a little healthier or switch things up. Whether you go for the traditional toppings or get creative with variations, this recipe is sure to satisfy your burger cravings. It’s quick, customizable, and full of flavor—what’s not to love? Try it today and enjoy a delicious, deconstructed burger experience!