If you love all the juicy, comforting flavors of a classic burger but want to skip the bun, this Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe is going to become your new weeknight favorite. It’s an exciting way to enjoy every single component of a cheeseburger—melty cheddar, savory beef, tangy pickles, and that irresistible burger sauce—all served over a bed of fresh layered lettuce instead of bread. This dish feels like a hug in a bowl, combining vibrant colors and textures that make every bite a delightful adventure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe starts with simple, familiar ingredients that pack serious flavor and texture. Each one plays its part, from the crisp lettuce that gives freshness to the rich ground beef, to the tang of pickled jalapenos adding that subtle kick.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Use good-quality beef for juicy, flavorful meat as the star of the bowl.
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (1 pint): Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and a pop of color.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts perfectly over warm beef for creamy cheesiness.
- Pickled red onions (1/2 cup): Bring a tangy crunch; raw onions are fine but pickled add more zing.
- Sliced pickles (1/2 cup): Classic burger crunch with that signature pickle tang.
- Relish (2 tbsp): Adds sweetness and texture to the sauce and bowl.
- Pickled jalapeno slices (1/4 cup): For a smoky, spicy kick—adjust to your heat preference.
- Crumbled, cooked bacon (1/2 cup): Brings smoky saltiness and crunchy texture.
- Shredded lettuce (4 cups): The fresh, crisp base that balances all the rich toppings.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Creates a creamy, luscious burger sauce.
- Ketchup (2 tbsp): Adds sweetness and that quintessential burger flavor to the sauce.
- Yellow mustard (1 tbsp): The perfect tang that cuts through richness.
- Pickle relish (1 tbsp): Enhances the sauce with texture and bright flavor.
- Smoked paprika (2 tsp): Gives the sauce a warm, smoky depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring everything together.
How to Make Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Burger Sauce
Start by making your burger sauce in a small bowl—combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle relish, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and well blended. This sauce adds the creamy, tangy flavor that makes this Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe stand out, so don’t skip it or substitute too heavily.
Step 2: Cooking the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium. Add the ground beef, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 7 to 10 minutes until it’s fully browned and crumbly, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. Once cooked, drain the extra fat and set the meat aside. This perfectly cooked beef forms the hearty base of your bowl’s flavor.
Step 3: Assembling the Bowls
Grab your serving bowls and create a base with shredded lettuce. Next, layer on the cooked ground beef evenly, then add your favorite toppings: cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, pickled onions, pickles, jalapenos, and crumbled bacon. Finish with a generous drizzle of your burger sauce. Each bowl is a colorful, flavor-packed bite waiting to happen!
How to Serve Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can brighten this dish beautifully, while a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or crumbled bacon on top brings an inviting richness. For a little extra zing, add a few more pickled jalapenos right before serving.
Side Dishes
This Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a crisp coleslaw for contrast. If you’re after a lighter vibe, a fresh cucumber salad or roasted veggies also complement the flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these bowls in individual mason jars for a fun, picnic-style presentation. Or arrange all the ingredients buffet-style so everyone can build their own bowl exactly how they like. For meal prep days, pack layer-by-layer in airtight containers and top with sauce right before eating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cooked ground beef and sauce separate from the fresh toppings to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
The cooked ground beef portion freezes very well. Portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling your bowls.
Reheating
Reheat the beef gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh toppings and sauce after reheating for the best texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even Swiss for a twist on the flavor profile.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe is naturally low-carb, making it a great option for keto and other low-carb diets since it skips the bun and focuses on protein and veggies.
How spicy are the pickled jalapeños?
They add a moderate heat, but you can adjust the amount or omit them completely if you prefer a milder bowl.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well too and creates a lighter version while still keeping those burger flavors.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying out the beef?
Reheat the beef slowly over low heat in a skillet or cover it with a damp paper towel in the microwave to retain moisture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about this Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe that combines all the familiar burger flavors without the carbs, in a fresh, colorful, and customizable bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a recipe you can rely on to bring smiles and full bellies. Give it a try and discover your new favorite twist on a classic!
Print
Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Cheeseburger Bowls are a delicious, low-carb twist on the classic burger that omits the bun while packing all the savory flavors you love. This easy-to-make recipe layers seasoned ground beef with fresh lettuce and vibrant toppings like cherry tomatoes, pickled onions, pickles, jalapeños, and crispy bacon, all drizzled with a smoky, tangy burger sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes like a cheeseburger without the carbs or mess.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions (or raw red onions)
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeno slices
- 1/2 cup crumbled, cooked bacon
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp pickle relish
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the burger sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle relish, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend all the flavors. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld as you prepare the other ingredients.
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and season it with salt and pepper to your preference. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spatula for even browning, until fully cooked and no longer pink, about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat thoroughly before moving on to assembling the bowls.
- Assemble the cheeseburger bowls: In four serving bowls, layer a generous amount of shredded lettuce as your base. Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef over the lettuce, then add the halved cherry tomatoes, pickled red onions, sliced pickles, pickled jalapeños, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese on top. Finally, drizzle each bowl with the prepared smoky burger sauce for a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors. Serve immediately and enjoy your deconstructed cheeseburger!
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, try tossing the lettuce with a light vinaigrette before assembling.
- Use cooked bacon for best flavor and texture in the bowl. You can cook bacon in the oven or skillet and crumble it once cooled.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the burger sauce.
- Feel free to swap cheddar cheese for your preferred cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack to vary flavors.
- This recipe is naturally low-carb and gluten-free by skipping the bun.
