Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Low Carb Burger Bowl is a deconstructed burger served in a bowl without the bun, making it perfect for those following keto, paleo, or low-carb diets. It’s a quick, customizable meal loaded with all your favorite burger toppings—minus the carbs. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beefsalt and peppergarlic powderonion powdercheddar cheeseromaine lettucegrape tomatoesred onionpicklesmustardmayoketchup (sugar-free for low-carb)olive oil (for cooking)
directions
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and cook until browned and cooked through.
Drain excess fat and set the meat aside.
Chop the romaine lettuce and arrange it in bowls as the base.
Top with cooked ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, halved grape tomatoes, sliced red onion, and chopped pickles.
Drizzle with your choice of mustard, mayo, and sugar-free ketchup.
Mix everything together just before eating or serve layered.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Add avocado slices for healthy fats and creaminess.
Swap romaine for spinach or mixed greens.
Top with a fried egg for extra protein.
Use blue cheese or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
storage/reheating
Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave before assembling.
Assemble the bowl just before serving to keep the lettuce fresh and crisp.
FAQs
Can I meal prep Burger Bowls?
Yes, prepare all ingredients and store separately. Assemble fresh each day.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, as long as you use sugar-free condiments and avoid high-carb toppings.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try Swiss, provolone, or Monterey Jack.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the beef with a plant-based crumble or grilled veggie burger patty.
Do I need to use a skillet?
A skillet is best for browning the beef, but a non-stick pan or griddle also works.
How do I keep it from getting soggy?
Store toppings and lettuce separately and combine only when ready to eat.
Can I eat it cold?
Yes, it’s great cold like a salad or warm with freshly cooked beef.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all condiments and add-ins are certified gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales well for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
What are some good low-carb sauces?
Try sugar-free BBQ sauce, ranch, or homemade burger sauce with mayo, mustard, and pickles.
Conclusion
The Low Carb Burger Bowl is a fast, flavorful way to enjoy all the best parts of a burger without the bun. It’s customizable, delicious, and perfect for anyone looking to cut down on carbs without sacrificing taste. Make it your own with different toppings and sauces, and enjoy a guilt-free burger experience in every bite.
Print
Low Carb Burger Bowl
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 bowls
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, No‑cook prep
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty, low‑carb twist on the classic burger—deconstructed into a bowl with seasoned beef, veggies, cheese, and a creamy dressing, perfect for a satisfying meal without the bun.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., romaine, spinach, arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, sliced
- For dressing: 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix gently to combine.
- Heat a skillet over medium‑high heat and add olive oil if using. Add seasoned beef, breaking it into chunks; cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Meanwhile, assemble the bowls: divide mixed greens among 4 bowls, then top with tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, shredded cheese, bacon (if using), red onion, avocado, and pickles.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Divide cooked beef over the bowls. Drizzle with dressing or serve dressing on the side.
- Serve immediately, allowing eaters to customize with extra dressing or hot sauce.
Notes
- Make it keto‑friendly by using full‑fat mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Swap cheddar for blue cheese crumbles for a cheeseburger flavor twist.
- Meal‑prep tip: cook and season beef ahead of time and store separately; assemble fresh when ready to eat.
- Vegetarian option: substitute beef with cooked seasoned lentils or plant‑based crumbles.
- Add pickled jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.