Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Burger in a Bowl is the ultimate low-carb comfort food that’s quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. The combination of ground beef (or turkey), crispy lettuce, and fresh toppings brings all the elements of a classic burger, minus the bun. It’s completely customizable—add your favorite toppings like cheese, pickles, onions, or avocado to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a great option for those following keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diets. With this one-bowl meal, you can satisfy your burger cravings without compromising on flavor!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups lettuce (such as romaine or iceberg), chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup pickles, sliced (optional)
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite cheese)
2 tablespoons mustard or ketchup (optional, for drizzling)

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

Directions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil, if necessary. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine and set aside.
In a large bowl, layer the chopped lettuce as the base.
Top the lettuce with the cooked ground beef mixture.
Add the sliced cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and pickles (if using).
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the bowl.
Drizzle with mustard or ketchup, if desired, or any of your favorite burger toppings like mayonnaise, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Cheese Variations: Switch up the cheese and use mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Veggie Toppings: Add other veggies such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even sautéed mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
Bacon: For extra crunch and flavor, top the burger bowl with crispy bacon crumbles.
Spicy Burger: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to give the burger bowl some heat.
Different Meats: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a veggie patty for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the ground beef in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh lettuce and other toppings after reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based burger patties if you prefer. The recipe is flexible and can be adapted to your dietary preferences.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ground beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply assemble the bowls with fresh toppings.

3. What kind of lettuce should I use?

Romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce work best as they are sturdy and hold up well in a bowl. You can also use spinach or mixed greens for a different flavor.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or roasted veggies, to your burger bowl.

5. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, to add some heat, top the bowl with sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or even spicy mustard or sriracha.

6. Can I eat this recipe without cheese?

Yes, you can easily leave out the cheese for a dairy-free or lower-calorie version. You can still enjoy the great flavors of the burger with all the other toppings.

7. Can I use a store-bought burger seasoning mix?

Yes, if you prefer convenience, you can use a store-bought seasoning mix. Just be mindful of the added salt content and adjust accordingly.

8. How do I know when the ground beef is fully cooked?

Ground beef is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

9. Can I make this recipe without pickles?

Yes, pickles are optional. You can leave them out or substitute with other condiments or toppings like jalapeños or sautéed onions for added flavor.

10. Can I use a different dressing or condiment?

Absolutely! You can use mayonnaise, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or any condiment that you enjoy with your burgers.

Conclusion

Burger in a Bowl is a delicious, healthy, and customizable meal that brings all the flavors of a classic burger in a lighter, low-carb format. Packed with savory ground beef, fresh veggies, and your favorite burger toppings, this bowl is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, or simply want to enjoy a tasty twist on the traditional burger, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, Burger in a Bowl is a fun and delicious way to enjoy your favorite comfort food.

Burger in a Bowl

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Burger in a Bowl is a fun and delicious deconstructed version of your favorite classic burger, served in a bowl instead of a bun. This low-carb, gluten-free dish gives you all the juicy, savory flavors of a traditional burger—without the carbs. Packed with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and your favorite toppings, this burger bowl is as satisfying as it is customizable. It’s the perfect meal for anyone looking for a lighter, yet filling option that still delivers all the delicious flavors of a classic burger.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 10min
Total Time: 25min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil, if necessary. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine and set aside.
In a large bowl, layer the chopped lettuce as the base.
Top the lettuce with the cooked ground beef mixture.
Add the sliced cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and pickles (if using).
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the bowl.
Drizzle with mustard or ketchup, if desired, or any of your favorite burger toppings like mayonnaise, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Cheese Variations: Switch up the cheese and use mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Veggie Toppings: Add other veggies such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or even sautéed mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
Bacon: For extra crunch and flavor, top the burger bowl with crispy bacon crumbles.
Spicy Burger: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to give the burger bowl some heat.
Different Meats: Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a veggie patty for a different twist.