If you love a classic cheeseburger but want a lighter, more balanced option that still satisfies all those juicy, savory cravings, this Healthy Loaded Burger Bowl is for you.
Packed with seasoned ground beef, crisp lettuce, fresh veggies, pickles, a sprinkle of cheese, and a creamy, tangy special sauce, this bowl gives you all the burger goodness in a nutrient-rich, fork-and-bowl format. It’s low in carbs, high in protein, and completely customizable for picky eaters and burger purists alike.
This recipe came about during a summer grilling season when we had leftover burger toppings but no buns—and it’s been on repeat ever since. The kids love it because it still feels like a burger, and I love it because I can load up on veggies while still enjoying all the bold flavors of a classic cheeseburger. Plus, it’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner, and the components are easy to prep ahead for grab-and-go lunches or quick family meals.
With no bun to weigh you down, this bowl is lighter but still totally satisfying. You can use ground beef, turkey, or even plant-based meat, and the toppings can be as simple or as loaded as you like. The real magic is in the sauce—it brings everything together and takes this bowl from “salad with beef” to full-on burger bliss.
What You’ll Need
For the Ground Beef:
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (if using a leaner cut)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Burger Sauce:
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or mayo
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice or apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bowl Base and Toppings:
- 4 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sliced pickles
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Use a cast iron skillet to brown the beef for maximum flavor and caramelization.
- Drain excess fat from the pan if using a fattier cut of beef so the bowl doesn’t get greasy.
- Chop toppings finely so you get a little of everything in every bite—just like a good burger.
- Double the sauce and store in the fridge to use on sandwiches, wraps, or other bowls throughout the week.
- Serve buffet-style so everyone can build their own bowl with their favorite toppings.
Tools You’ll Need
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl (for sauce)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Serving bowls
- Measuring spoons
Substitutions & Variations
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt or mayo in the sauce and skip the shredded cheese or use a plant-based version.
Low-Carb: This bowl is naturally low in carbs, especially if you skip the ketchup or use a sugar-free version.
Different Proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, bison, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Make it a Salad: Add cucumber, shredded carrots, or even sliced hard-boiled eggs for more salad-style toppings.
Add Grains: Serve over cooked quinoa, rice, or farro if you want a heartier, grain-based bowl.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the beef and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Make the burger sauce ahead—it stores well in the fridge for up to a week.
- Chop and prep veggies ahead and store in containers for fast bowl assembly.
- For meal prep, portion the ingredients into containers and add the sauce just before eating.
How to Make a Healthy Loaded Burger Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil (if using) and ground beef. Break up with a spatula and cook until browned. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Make the Burger Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt or mayo, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, garlic powder, paprika, and salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Prep the Bowl Ingredients
Wash and chop the lettuce, slice cherry tomatoes, red onion, pickles, and avocado (if using). Set everything out for easy assembly.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Divide shredded lettuce between bowls. Top with cooked ground beef, tomatoes, pickles, red onion, cheddar cheese, avocado, and a drizzle of burger sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and lime wedges, if desired.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store beef and chopped veggies in separate containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep sauce in a sealed jar or container for up to a week.
- Assemble bowls fresh each time to keep lettuce crisp.
- For packed lunches, layer dressing at the bottom and lettuce on top—shake before eating.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Loaded Burger Bowl is everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger—savory, flavorful, and totally satisfying—but served in a lighter, nutrient-rich way. It’s easy to prep, totally customizable, and works for everyone at the table. Whether you’re eating low carb, meal prepping for the week, or just want a feel-good dinner that comes together fast, this bowl hits the mark. Try it tonight, and let me know what toppings your family loves most—there are endless ways to make it your own.