This burger bowl is a delicious, protein-packed meal prep option that delivers all the flavors of a cheeseburger without the bun. Made with seasoned ground beef, crisp romaine lettuce, cheddar cheese, pickles, onions, and a tangy burger sauce, this dish is both satisfying and easy to pack for work. Perfect for busy weekdays, this meal is a great way to enjoy a balanced and flavorful lunch without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Great for Meal Prep – Easily portioned into containers for grab-and-go lunches.
- Low-Carb & High-Protein – Enjoy all the flavors of a burger in a lighter, bun-free version.
- Quick & Easy to Make – Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable – Add your favorite burger toppings to switch up the flavors.
- Delicious & Satisfying – A filling and flavorful lunch option that won’t leave you hungry.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt & pepper
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup pickles (sliced)
- ¼ cup chopped onions
- ¼ cup burger sauce (mayo, ketchup, mustard mix)
Directions
-
Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.
-
Assemble the Burger Bowl
- Divide the chopped romaine lettuce into meal prep containers.
- Add the cooked ground beef on top of the lettuce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, and chopped onions over the beef.
-
Prepare the Burger Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard to create the burger sauce.
-
Store & Serve
- Keep the sauce separate until ready to eat. Drizzle over the burger bowl just before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 3–4 bowls
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
- Extra Crunch: Add crispy bacon bits for more texture and flavor.
- Avocado Addition: Slice an avocado on top for a boost of healthy fats.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the beef separately in the microwave before adding it to the salad.
- Avoid Sogginess: Keep the burger sauce separate and add just before eating.
FAQs
Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Yes! This is a great meal prep option. Just store the components separately and assemble before eating.
What’s the best way to keep the lettuce fresh?
Store lettuce in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that still tastes great.
How can I make this bowl keto-friendly?
Use a sugar-free ketchup in the burger sauce and opt for a low-carb cheese.
What other toppings can I add?
Try adding cherry tomatoes, avocado, bacon bits, or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes! Ranch dressing or a homemade vinaigrette also pairs well with this bowl.
How do I pack this for lunch?
Layer the ingredients in a meal prep container and keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.
Can I serve this warm or cold?
It’s delicious both ways! Eat it cold for a refreshing lunch or reheat the beef before serving.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is a great choice, but you can also use American, Swiss, or pepper jack.
Can I turn this into a wrap?
Yes! Wrap the ingredients in a whole wheat or low-carb tortilla for an easy handheld meal.
Conclusion
This burger bowl is an easy, delicious, and healthy meal prep option that brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a fresh and lighter format. Packed with protein, crisp veggies, and a flavorful burger sauce, it’s the perfect lunch to take to work. Try this simple and satisfying recipe today for a quick and nourishing meal!
