The burger bowl is a fresh twist on the traditional hamburger—no buns required! Born out of the low-carb and keto movement, this dish quickly became a favorite among food lovers looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal. Packed with juicy ground beef, crunchy vegetables, and zesty sauces, burger bowls deliver all the flavors of a classic burger in a deconstructed, fork-friendly form.
Popular in fast-casual restaurants and home kitchens alike, burger bowls are loved for their versatility, texture variety, and dietary flexibility. Whether you’re keto, gluten-free, or just love burgers, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Bowl Components:
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2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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1 avocado, sliced
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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¼ cup dill pickles, chopped
Optional Toppings:
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Crispy bacon bits
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Jalapeño slices
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Fried egg
Sauce (Homemade “Burger Sauce”):
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¼ cup mayonnaise
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1 tbsp ketchup
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1 tsp yellow mustard
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp pickle juice (or white vinegar)
Substitutions:
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Ground turkey or chicken for leaner protein
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Vegan beef substitute for a plant-based version
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Dairy-free cheese for lactose-intolerant diets
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Ranch or tahini sauce as dressing alternatives
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Cook the Ground Beef
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula.
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Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Cook until browned and fully cooked (about 7–9 minutes). Drain excess grease.
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Prepare the Sauce
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In a small bowl, mix mayo, ketchup, mustard, paprika, and pickle juice.
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Adjust seasoning to taste. Chill until ready to serve.
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Assemble the Bowl
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Start with a base of romaine lettuce in each bowl.
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Add toppings: tomatoes, onions, avocado, pickles, cheese, and ground beef.
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Drizzle sauce generously over the top.
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Optional Add-ons
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Add fried egg or bacon for extra flavor.
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Sprinkle sesame seeds for a burger-like feel.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Overcooking the beef—it turns dry quickly.
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Skipping the sauce—it brings all the flavors together.
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Assembling too early—wait until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use cast iron for the best sear and flavor on your beef.
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Chill the sauce at least 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
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Toast cheese on the cooked beef if you prefer it melted.
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Pre-chop veggies and store separately for quick meal prep during the week.
Variations and Customizations
For Different Diets:
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Vegetarian: Use black bean patties or grilled portobello mushrooms.
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Low-carb/Keto: Skip ketchup or use sugar-free alternatives.
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Gluten-free: Ensure sauces and condiments are certified GF.
Fusion Flavors:
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Tex-Mex Burger Bowl: Add corn, black beans, and chipotle crema.
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Asian-Inspired: Use teriyaki beef and top with sesame slaw.
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Greek Style: Add tzatziki, olives, and feta instead of cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in deep bowls to hold all the toppings and juices.
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Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
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Pair with:
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Sparkling water or iced tea
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Sweet potato fries or roasted zucchini
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A light fruit salad for dessert
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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 520
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Protein: 30g
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Carbs: 12g
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Fat: 38g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sugar: 4g
Note: Values will vary based on toppings and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store all components separately and assemble just before eating to keep it fresh.
How long will leftovers last?
Up to 3 days in the fridge if stored properly in airtight containers.
Can I reheat the beef?
Yes, reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, but avoid reheating with cold toppings.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Only the cooked meat can be frozen. Avoid freezing fresh veggies and sauce.
Closing Thoughts
Burger bowls are the ultimate customizable comfort food—healthy, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re craving something fresh or watching your carb intake, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Try it out, get creative with the toppings, and don’t forget to share your own burger bowl masterpiece with us!
