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Healthy Burger in a Bowl Recipe

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3.8 from 6 reviews

This Healthy Burger in a Bowl recipe offers a fresh and nutritious twist on the classic burger, replacing the bun with crisp romaine lettuce and packing in lean ground beef seasoned with aromatic spices. Topped with a creamy, tangy homemade burger sauce and fresh veggies like avocado, red onion, pickles, and cherry tomatoes, it’s a quick, flavorful meal perfect for those seeking a low-carb, wholesome option that can be ready in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, sliced
  • 2 large pickles, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Burger Sauce

  • 4 tbsp sour cream
  • 4 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp maple syrup
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the beef: Heat up a skillet over medium-high heat and add the lean ground beef. Season with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook the beef for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it browns completely.
  2. Drain excess liquid: Once the beef is browned, remove the skillet from heat and carefully drain any excess liquid or fat to keep the dish healthy and less greasy.
  3. Prepare the burger sauce: In a bowl, combine 4 tbsp sour cream, 4 tbsp ketchup, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp maple syrup, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
  4. Assemble the bowls: Start by layering chopped romaine lettuce as the base. Add the cooked ground beef on top followed by slices of avocado, red onion, pickles, and halved cherry tomatoes for fresh texture and flavor.
  5. Finish with sauce and seasoning: Drizzle the prepared burger sauce over each bowl and add a final sprinkle of salt and black pepper to enhance all the flavors before serving.

Notes

  • For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce or omit it from the burger sauce.
  • Lean ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter protein alternative.
  • Feel free to add shredded cheese or a fried egg on top for extra richness if not strictly low-calorie.
  • The burger sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This dish is naturally low-carb and gluten free by substituting the bun with lettuce.