High-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe
Introduction
These High-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls are a flavorful and satisfying way to enjoy all the classic burger fixings without the bun. Packed with lean meat, fresh veggies, and a creamy tangy sauce, they make a perfect meal for anyone looking to boost protein while keeping things light and tasty.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey (90% lean)
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder
- 4 cups chopped lettuce OR 2 cups cooked quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup sliced dill pickles
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 4 strips cooked bacon
- Jalapeño slices
- 4 fried eggs
- ½ cup low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir frequently until the meat is cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 2: Prepare your base by chopping the lettuce or cooking your chosen grain or cauliflower rice according to preference.
- Step 3: Slice the cherry tomatoes, dill pickles, red onion, and prepare any additional toppings like jalapeños or avocado slices.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mustard, ketchup, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth to create the sauce.
- Step 5: Assemble your bowls by layering the base, then the cooked meat, followed by the toppings and shredded cheese. Drizzle the prepared sauce on top.
- Step 6: For an extra boost of protein and flavor, top each bowl with a fried egg, a strip of cooked bacon, and sliced avocado if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option without sacrificing flavor.
- Use different cheese varieties like pepper jack or mozzarella for a twist on taste.
- Try swapping the sauce for a spicy sriracha mayo if you prefer more heat.
- Add extra veggies like shredded carrots or cucumber for more crunch and nutrients.
- To keep it dairy-free, omit the cheese and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative in the sauce.
Storage
Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce chilled. When ready to eat, reheat the cooked meat and grains gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before assembling the bowls. Add fresh toppings and sauce just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground meat with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version while keeping the protein content high.
What are some good side dishes to serve with these bowls?
Simple sides like baked sweet potato fries, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well to complement the hearty bowls without overwhelming the meal.
PrintHigh-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls Recipe
This High-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls recipe offers a nutritious and delicious twist on the classic cheeseburger, served deconstructed in a bowl. Featuring lean ground beef or turkey cooked with savory spices, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Greek yogurt-based sauce, these bowls combine high protein content with fresh flavors and customizable toppings like fried eggs, bacon, and avocado. Perfect for a satisfying low-carb or balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Protein & Meat
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey (90% lean)
- 4 strips cooked bacon
- 4 fried eggs
Base & Vegetables
- 4 cups chopped lettuce OR 2 cups cooked quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup sliced dill pickles
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Jalapeño slices (optional)
Dairy & Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
- ½ cup low-fat Greek yogurt
Spices & Sauces
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (for seasoning the meat)
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- ½ tsp garlic powder (for sauce)
- ½ tsp paprika (for sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce)
Instructions
- Cook the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook thoroughly for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish lean.
- Prepare the base: Choose your base by either chopping fresh lettuce or cooking quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice according to your preference. This will form the foundation of your cheeseburger bowl.
- Prep toppings: Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the dill pickles and red onion, and prepare optional jalapeño slices. Have the avocado sliced and ready for assembly as well.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the low-fat Greek yogurt, mustard, ketchup, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and well combined, providing a creamy and flavorful dressing for the bowl.
- Assemble bowls: Start layering your bowl by placing the base first, then add the cooked meat, followed by the fresh vegetable toppings and shredded cheese evenly on top. Drizzle the creamy sauce all over the assembled ingredients for rich flavor.
- Optional finish: For extra protein and a gourmet touch, top each bowl with a fried egg, the cooked bacon strips, and slices of avocado. These additions elevate the flavor and nutritional profile of the meal.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey as a lower-fat alternative to ground beef.
- Substitute the base with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- For a spicier kick, add extra jalapeño slices or hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat the meat and assemble fresh.
Keywords: high-protein, cheeseburger bowl, lean ground beef, healthy cheeseburger, low-carb, easy dinner, weeknight meal
