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This burger bowl recipe takes everything you love about a classic cheeseburger and tucks it into a fresh, crunchy salad. No bun needed—just hearty ground meat, crisp greens, and that signature tangy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave all those burger flavors but want a lighter meal on the table fast.
My family loves how everyone can build their own bowl just the way they like it. The first time I made this burger bowl was on a hot summer evening and it instantly became our go-to when we want burgers but not the fuss.
Ingredients
- Ground beef or turkey or chicken or plant-based crumbles: Keeps the bowl hearty and packed with protein Look for high-quality meat with some fat for best flavor
- Olive oil: Just a little is needed for browning the meat Go for a fresh bottle for a light clean taste
- Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and makes even lean meat taste rich Check for freshness and aroma
- Onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning and layers in burger flavor
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for waking up all the flavors Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if possible
- Salad greens: Romaine spinach or mixed blends create a crisp fresh base Choose greens that look vibrant and have no wilted spots
- Cherry tomatoes: Bring juiciness and sweetness The fresher and riper the better
- Shredded cheddar cheese: A must for cheeseburger vibes Opt for sharp cheddar or a smoky variety and try dairy-free if needed
- Dill pickle slices: Add crunch and tang Pick a brand you love for big flavor
- Red onion: Brings sharp bite and great color Slice it as thin as you can
- Mayonnaise Ketchup Mustard and Honey: These combine for the burger sauce Mayo gives creaminess ketchup adds tang mustard brings zip and a hint of honey rounds it all out Use a high quality mayo and real yellow mustard for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Meat:
- Place your ground meat in a mixing bowl Sprinkle on garlic powder onion powder salt and black pepper Use your hands to gently mix the seasonings into the meat Stop as soon as the spices are combined to keep the texture tender
- Cook the Meat:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high until it feels hot when you hold your hand above it Swirl in the olive oil Add the seasoned meat If using patties cook each for around four minutes per side until deeply browned and cooked through If using crumbles let the meat brown without stirring too much at first then break it up as it cooks Stir until no pink remains and drain any excess fat if desired
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk the mayonnaise ketchup mustard and honey together Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or a dash of vinegar if you like You want a creamy pourable texture with a good balance of sweet and tangy
- Assemble Your Bowl:
- Lay a generous handful of greens in each serving bowl Spoon the hot cooked meat in the center Scatter cherry tomato halves shredded cheese dill pickles and sliced red onion over the top
- Sauce it Up and Eat:
- Drizzle the special sauce over each bowl making sure to hit every colorful topping Take a moment to admire your work then dig in while the meat is hot and the veggies stay crisp
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I have always loved burgers with extra pickles and adding plenty of them here gives the bowl the perfect tangy crunch My kids beg for extra sauce every time and the combination of flavors really does remind me of summer cookouts
Storage Tips
Leftover burger bowls are best stored in separate components to keep everything crisp Cool the cooked meat before refrigerating and store the sauce in a sealed jar Assemble fresh bowls each day for lunch The meat will keep for up to three days in the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use any ground meat you like from beef to turkey chicken or even plant-based options Vegan cheese and mayo also work well for dairy free needs Swap in shredded lettuce arugula or baby kale and try adding avocado or sliced jalapeños for a twist
Serving Suggestions
Pile your burger bowl toppings onto warm roasted sweet potato rounds for a fun switch Add a handful of air fryer fries or crispy chickpeas for crunch Or serve bowl bar style so everyone can mix and match their ideal combination
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Cultural and Historical Context
The burger salad or burger bowl has roots in low carb and keto eating but it has become a weeknight staple in many kitchens Looking for all the comfort of a classic cheeseburger meal without the heaviness of a bun this dish delivers those nostalgic flavors in a lighter and more customizable way
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles all work well for this dish. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply use dairy-free cheddar or omit the cheese. Vegan mayo is a great substitute for the sauce.
- → What greens are best?
Romaine, spinach, or mixed greens provide a crisp base, but feel free to mix in your favorites for texture.
- → Can I meal prep these bowls?
Absolutely. Cook the meat and prep the toppings ahead of time, then assemble everything just before serving.
- → Is the sauce customizable?
Yes, adjust the mayo, ketchup, mustard, sweetener, or even add a splash of vinegar to create your perfect flavor.
- → How do I keep the meat tender?
Mix the meat gently with seasonings and avoid overcooking to preserve juiciness and texture.