A healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional burgers, this Burger in a Bowl combines lean ground beef with fresh veggies and a tangy sauce for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Packed with protein and flavor, this dish delivers all the deliciousness of a burger—without the bun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low-carb and gluten-free – A great option for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
Quick and easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with flavor – The seasoned beef and tangy sauce give this bowl all the taste of a burger.
Customizable – Add or swap ingredients based on your preferences.
Nutritious and satisfying – High in protein and healthy fats to keep you full and energized.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Burger:

Lean ground beef
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper

For the Sauce:

Sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
Ketchup
Soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Maple syrup (or sugar-free maple syrup)

For the Bowl:

Romaine lettuce (chopped)
Avocado (sliced)
Red onion (sliced)
Pickles (sliced)
Cherry tomatoes (halved)

Directions

Prepare the Burger:

Cook the ground beef – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Season the beef – Add garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce:

Mix the ingredients – In a small bowl, combine sour cream, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and maple syrup until smooth.

Assemble the Bowl:

Build the base – In a large bowl, arrange chopped romaine lettuce as the base.
Add toppings – Top with cooked beef, sliced avocado, red onion, pickles, and cherry tomatoes.
Drizzle with sauce – Pour the prepared sauce over the bowl and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 13 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: Approximately 360 kcal per serving

Variations

Cheeseburger bowl – Add shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled feta for extra richness.
Spicy kick – Mix some hot sauce or sriracha into the sauce for added heat.
Turkey or chicken option – Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein.
Dairy-free version – Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the sauce.
Extra crunch – Add crispy bacon or roasted nuts for texture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the beef in a skillet or microwave before assembling the bowl.
Meal prep: Prep all the ingredients in advance and assemble fresh before eating.

FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Absolutely! Try iceberg, spinach, kale, or mixed greens based on your preference.

How can I make this even lower in carbs?

Use sugar-free ketchup and omit the maple syrup in the sauce.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes! Shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or crumbled blue cheese would all be delicious additions.

What’s the best way to meal prep this recipe?

Cook the beef and prepare the veggies in advance, storing everything separately. Assemble when ready to eat for the freshest taste.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, bison, or even tofu can be used in place of beef.

What other toppings can I add?

Try adding sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, cucumbers, or grilled onions for more variety.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! As long as you use sugar-free ketchup and maple syrup, this bowl is keto-approved.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with this?

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a low-carb bun, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.

Conclusion

This Burger in a Bowl is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic burger—without the bun! Packed with fresh ingredients and a tangy homemade sauce, this dish is satisfying, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb meal, a protein-packed dinner, or a quick lunch option, this bowl is sure to become a favorite!

Burger in a Bowl

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Print Recipe

Burger in a Bowl is a low-carb, high-protein alternative to a traditional burger, featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and a tangy homemade sauce. Perfect for keto and gluten-free diets, this quick and easy meal delivers all the classic burger flavors—without the bun!

Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Instructions

Cook the Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, ketchup, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and maple syrup until smooth.
Assemble the Bowl:
- Place chopped romaine lettuce as the base in a large bowl.
- Add the cooked beef, avocado slices, red onion, pickles, and cherry tomatoes.
- Drizzle with the prepared sauce and serve immediately.

Notes

Add shredded cheese for a cheeseburger-style bowl.
Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative.
To make it keto, use sugar-free ketchup and omit the maple syrup.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 13 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Sautéing, Assembling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free