Description
This Fully Loaded Burger Bowl is a perfect way to enjoy all the classic hamburger flavors without the bun. The bowl features crumbled ground beef or your choice of meat, fresh vegetables, creamy guacamole, and a tangy “special sauce.” Whether you’re following Whole30, Paleo, or simply seeking a low-carb alternative to a traditional burger, this bowl provides a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients
- For the Burger:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 teaspoons garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
- 1 teaspoon avocado oil or melted refined coconut oil
- For the Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (see Notes)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (see Notes)
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup or 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (if on Whole30, see Notes)
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- 2 teaspoons dried minced onion
- 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
- 1 pinch salt (more or less to taste)
- For the Quick Guacamole:
- 2 medium avocados (pit removed, peeled)
- ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice (juice from approximately half of 1 lemon)
- ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
- For the Burger Bowls:
- 2 small heads romaine lettuce, sliced and root discarded
- 1½ cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1½ cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup pickles, or more to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Burger Meat:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ground beef, garlic powder, and salt. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beef mixture and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.
Note: For the chicken, if you’re using shredded or cubed cooked chicken, you can skip the cooking step and simply warm it in the skillet. - Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, maple syrup (or coconut aminos for Whole30), dill pickle relish, dried minced onion, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Set aside. - Prepare the Guacamole:
In a medium bowl, mash together the avocado, lemon juice, and salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside. - Assemble the Burger Bowls:
Divide the sliced romaine lettuce among serving bowls. Top each with a portion of the cooked ground beef or chicken, crumbled meat of choice, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, pickles, and a scoop of guacamole. Drizzle generously with the special sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
- Mayonnaise Substitute: If you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version of the special sauce, use a compliant mayonnaise such as avocado-based or coconut milk-based mayonnaise.
- Whole30: To make this recipe Whole30 compliant, substitute maple syrup in the special sauce with coconut aminos, and ensure all other ingredients are Whole30-approved.
- Guacamole Tip: To keep the guacamole from browning, you can press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before storing it in the refrigerator. This will help preserve its freshness for longer.
- Variations:
- Different Meats: Swap the ground beef for other meats like ground turkey, turkey breast (shredded or cubed), or even ground lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: For a plant-based alternative, try using plant-based crumbles or grilled portobello mushrooms instead of meat.
- Add Spice: For an extra spicy kick, add fresh sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the special sauce.
- Meal Prep: The components of this recipe (meat, sauce, and guacamole) can be prepared in advance and stored separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Assemble the bowls when ready to serve for a quick meal.
- Serving Tip: Serve with extra pickles or a side of roasted vegetables for added crunch and flavor.
