Burger Bowls

I’m so glad you’re here — truly! If you’ve ever craved all the goodness of a juicy, loaded burger without the bun, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for these Burger Bowls. Think of them as a deconstructed burger — all your favorite toppings, sauces, and juicy beef, but served in a wholesome, fresh, fork-friendly bowl. It’s hearty, satisfying, and way more exciting than your average salad.

This is one of those recipes that’s endlessly flexible, meal-prep friendly, and downright fun to build. I’ve made it on repeat for weeknight dinners, backyard gatherings, and even lunchboxes. Trust me — once you try it, you’ll be wondering why you ever needed a bun in the first place!

💌 Love fast, flavorful recipes like this? Sign up for email updates and get fresh meal inspiration delivered to your inbox every week!

Why You’ll Love These Burger Bowls

Let’s break down everything that makes this a meal you’ll come back to again and again.

What Are Burger Bowls?

Burger bowls are essentially bun-less burgers served salad-style. You take everything you’d normally pile on a burger — ground beef, cheese, pickles, lettuce, tomato, and sauces — and layer it into a big bowl. The result is a meal that’s filling, low-carb, and packed with flavor.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• Low-carb and keto-friendly

• Customizable for all diets (gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan — you name it!)

• Perfect for meal prep

• All the flavor of a burger with a fresh, healthy twist

• Fast and easy — ready in under 30 minutes!

What Do Burger Bowls Taste Like?

Imagine digging into a perfectly seasoned cheeseburger — juicy beef, crisp lettuce, melty cheese, and tangy pickles — but without the heaviness of bread. The combo of warm and cool, creamy and crunchy, makes every bite exciting and satisfying.

Benefits of Burger Bowls

• High in protein and healthy fats

• Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free or vegan

• Way more veggies than a regular burger

• Kid- and family-friendly

• Great for weeknights or make-ahead lunches

Ingredients for Burger Bowls

Here’s what you’ll need to build your own perfect bowl:

For the Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowls:

• 4 cups chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or sliced cheese of choice

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup dill pickles, chopped or sliced

• 1 avocado, sliced or diced (optional but so good!)

For the Burger Sauce (optional but recommended!):

• ½ cup mayo

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tsp relish or chopped pickles

• Splash of vinegar or lemon juice

• Salt & pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need

No fancy gear required — just your basics:

• Large skillet for cooking the beef

• Knife and cutting board

• Mixing bowls

• Serving bowls or meal prep containers

• Whisk or spoon for the sauce

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

The best thing about burger bowls? You can make them exactly how you like. Try these ideas:

• Swap beef for: ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles

• Cheese alternatives: pepper jack, Swiss, or dairy-free cheese shreds

• Add-ons: bacon, sautéed mushrooms, grilled onions, jalapeños

• Toppings twist: roasted sweet potatoes, crispy onions, or croutons if you’re not low-carb

• Make it vegan: use Beyond Meat or lentil-walnut taco “meat” and vegan mayo/cheese

How to Make Burger Bowls

You’re just a few simple steps away from building the ultimate bowl:

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and seasonings. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Step 3: Prep the Veggies

Chop lettuce, slice tomatoes, onions, pickles, and avocado.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

In each bowl, layer a base of lettuce, then top with beef, cheese, tomatoes, onion, pickles, and avocado. Drizzle generously with burger sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Dig in while the beef is still warm and the toppings are fresh!

What to Serve with Burger Bowls

🍟 Fries, Of Course!

What’s a burger without fries? Here are a few tasty, easy options:

• Sweet Potato Fries – baked or air-fried, they’re naturally sweet and full of fiber.

• Zucchini Fries – low-carb and crisp when breaded and baked.

• Air Fryer French Fries – a healthier twist on the classic.

• Parmesan Potato Wedges – crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside!

Pro tip: Serve with extra burger sauce for dipping! You’ll thank me later.

🥗 Light and Fresh Salads

Pairing your burger bowl with a crisp side salad is a great way to keep things refreshing:

• Cucumber Tomato Salad – simple, hydrating, and full of summer vibes.

• Coleslaw – adds creamy crunch and cuts through the richness of the beef.

• Grilled Corn Salad – slightly smoky and sweet, it’s a backyard BBQ favorite.

• Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette – peppery and bright!

🧀 Comforting Sides (If You’re Feeling Indulgent)

Go all-in with comfort food classics:

• Mac and Cheese – rich, creamy, and the ultimate burger bowl companion.

• Baked Beans – sweet and smoky flavors pair great with savory beef.

• Cheesy Cauliflower Bake – a low-carb twist with big flavor.

🍉 Simple, Seasonal Produce

Sometimes, a light, juicy side is all you need:

• Watermelon wedges – sweet and refreshing.

• Grilled peaches or pineapple – a smoky-sweet contrast to the savory bowl.

• Sliced apples or grapes – easy, no-prep sides for lunchboxes or picnics.

🍞 If You’re Not Low-Carb…

Feel like a little bread on the side? No judgment here!

• Garlic breadsticks or toasted buns for scooping up leftovers.

• Grilled flatbread – brush with olive oil and grill for a quick addition.

• Mini sliders – use leftover ground beef to make tiny bun sliders for kids or guests.

Make It a Meal

Want to turn Burger Bowls into a complete dinner experience? Try:

• A side of fries + pickles + lemonade or iced tea

• Add a small salad + a scoop of potato salad or slaw

• Serve with corn on the cob and watermelon slices for a classic cookout feel

Tips for the Best Burger Bowls

• 🍔 1. Use High-Quality Ground Beef

  Go for 80/20 ground beef (that’s 80% lean, 20% fat) — it cooks up juicy and flavorful without drying out. Leaner blends work too, but they’ll need a little more seasoning and maybe a drizzle of oil to keep them moist.

  🌿 2. Season the Meat Generously

  This isn’t the time for bland beef! A mix of onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper gives the ground beef that classic, craveable burger flavor. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a rich, savory boost.

  🥗 3. Mix Warm and Cool Ingredients

  Layer warm beef over crisp, cool lettuce and toppings — the temperature contrast adds amazing texture and makes each bite pop. It’s the secret to why these bowls feel so satisfying.

  🧀 4. Shred or Slice the Cheese Thinly

  This helps it melt just slightly against the warm beef, adding a creamy element to the bowl without overpowering the fresh veggies. Use cheddar, pepper jack, or even a slice of American cheese if you’re going full classic!

  🥒 5. Don’t Skip the Pickles

  Tangy pickles are a must for that authentic burger flavor! Dill slices or chopped pickles add a punch that balances out the richness of the beef and cheese.

  🥄 6. Make the Sauce Ahead of Time

  That creamy burger sauce (or “special sauce”) is the flavor glue that brings the whole bowl together. Mix it in advance and keep it chilled — the flavors deepen as it sits, and you’ll want to drizzle it over everything.

  🥑 7. Add Creamy + Crunchy Toppings

  Texture is key in a great bowl. Try:

  • Creamy: avocado, soft-boiled eggs, cheese

  • Crunchy: shredded lettuce, chopped onions, crispy bacon bits, toasted seeds

  🥣 8. Customize for Everyone

  These bowls are super customizable — perfect for picky eaters, dietary restrictions, or leftovers:

  • Low-carb? Skip sweet sauces and breaded toppings.

  • Vegan? Use plant-based beef, vegan cheese, and egg-free mayo in the sauce.

  • Feeding kids? Serve deconstructed so they can build their own!

  🧊 9. Prep Smart for Later

  If you’re meal prepping:

  • Store ingredients separately: Keep the beef, veggies, and sauce in separate containers to keep everything fresh.

  • Reheat beef just before eating or enjoy it cold in a salad-style bowl.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

• Store each ingredient separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

• Reheat the beef before serving or enjoy cold if you prefer.

Burger sauce:

• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week in a sealed jar or container.

Meal prep:

• Layer ingredients in mason jars (dressing at the bottom, lettuce on top) or portion out into bowls with a side container for sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these burger bowls vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Use lentil-walnut taco meat, tofu crumbles, or plant-based meat alternatives. Swap the cheese and sauce for dairy-free versions.

Are burger bowls keto-friendly?

Absolutely. They’re naturally low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats — just make sure your sauce and toppings are low in sugar.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes — cook the beef, prep your toppings, and store everything separately. Assemble when ready to eat for the freshest flavor.

Can I use ground chicken or turkey?

Definitely! Just be sure to add extra seasoning and a bit of oil to keep leaner meats from drying out.

Conclusion

These Burger Bowls are a total game-changer — all the flavor and fun of your favorite burger, made lighter, fresher, and totally customizable. Whether you’re eating low-carb, meal prepping for the week, or just want something fast and filling, this recipe checks all the boxes.

🍔 Loved this recipe? You might also enjoy my Loaded Taco Bowls, Grilled Chicken Salad with Honey Mustard, or Sweet Potato Turkey Bowls — perfect for dinner or make-ahead lunches!

Let’s Stay Connected!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see your creation! Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to tag your photos on Pinterest so we can all drool over your burger bowl masterpiece!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 430

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 32g

• Carbohydrates: 9g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sugar: 4g