Burger Bowls: All the Flavor Without the Bun in 20 Minutes
These customizable Burger Bowls deliver all the flavors you love about burgers in a healthier, deconstructed format. Perfectly seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, your favorite toppings, and a tangy special sauce come together in a satisfying bowl that’s keto-friendly, gluten-free, and ready in 20 minutes. Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or anyone looking to enjoy burger flavor without the bun.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Stovetop, Assembly
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Burger Meat:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of paprika
Bowl Components:
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- Dill pickle slices
- 1 cup diced avocado
- Optional: bacon, mushrooms, jalapeños
Instructions
- Make special sauce: Whisk together mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in small bowl. Refrigerate while preparing other components.
- Prep toppings: Chop lettuce, dice tomatoes, slice onions, shred cheese, and prepare any additional toppings. Arrange in separate bowls or on platter.
- Cook burger meat: Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and seasonings (Worcestershire, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper). Break into crumbles and cook 8-10 minutes until nicely browned with crispy edges. Drain excess fat.
- Assemble bowls: Divide lettuce among 4 bowls. Top each with cooked beef (about ¾ cup). Arrange toppings around bowl—tomatoes, cheese, pickles, onions, avocado.
- Sauce and serve: Drizzle special sauce over each bowl. Serve immediately while meat is hot and lettuce is cold.
Notes
- Use 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for best flavor and juiciness
- Don’t skip browning the meat—those crispy bits are essential
- Store components separately for meal prep (meat keeps 3-4 days)
- Lettuce must be completely dry to prevent sogginess
- Sauce improves when made ahead; keeps 5-7 days refrigerated
- Easily adapted for various diets (keto, low-carb, gluten-free)
- Can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives
- Customize toppings based on preferences and dietary needs