These Easy Low-Carb Burger Bowls make dinner fun and healthy! Packed with juicy burger flavors, fresh veggies, and a tasty dressing, they’re colorful and satisfying.
I love how quick they are to make—just grill your patties and toss everything in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without the carbs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for leaner options, try ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that they can be drier than beef.
Olive or Avocado Oil: Both are fantastic for cooking. If you don’t have either, you can use melted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. I find avocado oil has a higher smoke point, which is great for frying!
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These spices add depth to your dish. If you prefer fresh, use minced garlic and finely diced onions instead. Just remember, fresh will have a stronger flavor, so adjust to your taste.
Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, but you can swap it for spinach, kale, or mixed greens if preferred. Just ensure your chosen greens are sturdy enough to hold up the toppings.
Zucchini or Turnips: These are excellent low-carb alternatives for fries. You could also use cauliflower if you’re a fan, just remember to adjust cooking times based on thickness!
Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella, pepper jack, or even vegan cheese if you’re keeping it dairy-free.
How Do I Make Perfect Low-Carb Fries?
Getting those low-carb fries crispy can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with moisture-free veggies: Pat them dry with a paper towel after washing to ensure they crisp up nicely.
- Toss with oil and seasonings: Use just enough oil to coat, otherwise they can get soggy. I also like to use a mix of spices for a little kick!
- Spread evenly on the baking sheet: This helps them cook evenly. Avoid crowding to ensure proper browning.
- Flip halfway through: This encourages even cooking and gives you that golden-brown color, which is key for great fries!
- Keep an eye on them: Ovens can vary, so check them a few minutes early to avoid burning.
Following these tips will lead to deliciously crispy fries every time. Enjoy your burger bowls!
Easy Low-Carb Burger Bowls for Quick Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Bowls:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 4-6 dill pickle slices per bowl
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of cheese)
- 2 medium-sized zucchini or turnips (for low-carb fries)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for fries)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for fries)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for fries)
- Salt and pepper to taste (for fries)
For the Burger Bowl Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup (sugar-free if low-carb)
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and roughly 30 minutes total to cook and assemble. You’ll enjoy a quick, satisfying dinner that’s low in carbs yet full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Low-Carb Fries:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, wash your zucchini or turnips and cut them into fry-shaped sticks. In a large mixing bowl, toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and some salt and pepper until all the pieces are well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crispy and golden brown.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the fries are baking, place a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef along with 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the meat for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns and cooks through. If there’s excess fat in the pan, feel free to drain it out.
3. Make the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of mustard, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. This sauce gives your burger bowl that classic burger flavor!
4. Assemble the Burger Bowls:
Now it’s time to build your bowls! Take serving bowls and start by adding a generous portion of chopped romaine lettuce to one side of each bowl. Next, add in the cooked seasoned ground beef. Follow that with a portion of your crispy low-carb fries, shredded cheese, and 4-6 dill pickle slices on top of the beef.
5. Drizzle with Sauce:
Finish off by drizzling the burger sauce over everything in your bowl. Feel free to serve extra sauce on the side for dipping!
6. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your delicious, satisfying low-carb burger bowls while the fries are still warm. This meal is perfect for a quick dinner that still gives you all those classic burger flavors!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Easy Low-Carb Burger Bowls
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just be aware that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or cooking it with chopped onions to keep it moist and flavorful.
What Can I Use Instead of Zucchini or Turnips for the Fries?
If you don’t have zucchini or turnips, try using cauliflower. Cut it into fry shapes and follow the same baking instructions. You could also use eggplant for a unique twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Burger Bowls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the ground beef in a skillet and crisp up the fries in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crunch!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The burger bowl sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients may separate.
Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further cooking tips!
