High-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls: The Ultimate 25-Minute Meal Prep

Summer is here, and your grill might be calling your name. But some days, you want classic burger flavors without the heavy bun.

These High-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls are the perfect way to satisfy cravings fast. They are fresh, filling, and wonderful for those warm, sunny evenings. You get all the juicy satisfaction of a burger in a crisp, refreshing bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a total game-changer for your busy weeknight routine. It takes only 25 minutes from start to finish. You can easily feed the whole family without any kitchen stress.

It is also a fantastic choice for a healthy reset. The lean beef provides plenty of protein to keep you full. Plus, it is naturally low-carb and gluten-free for everyone to enjoy.

Simple Method

Cooking this meal is incredibly straightforward and beginner-friendly. You only need one skillet for the beef and a small bowl for the sauce. Even if you are new to cooking, you can do this.

The steps are quick and require very little active effort. You just brown the meat, whisk the sauce, and assemble. It really is that simple!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or fridge.

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (90/10)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 4 cups shredded romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup dill pickle slices
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
2. Drain any excess fat and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Reduce heat to low and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
4. Cover the pan for 60 seconds until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
5. In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and smoked paprika for the sauce.
6. Place 1 cup of shredded romaine lettuce into four meal prep containers.
7. Distribute the cheesy beef mixture evenly over the lettuce bases.
8. Top with cherry tomatoes, diced red onions, and dill pickle slices.
9. Drizzle with the prepared sauce immediately before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these bowls while the beef is still warm and melty. The contrast between hot beef and cold lettuce is delightful. It feels like a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

For a complete meal, pair this with some sweet potato fries. Or, keep it light with a side of fresh fruit. Pack into containers for the easiest weekday lunches you have ever had.

Keep It Fresh

These bowls stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days. Store the sauce in a separate small container to keep things crisp. This prevents the lettuce from getting soggy over time.

When you are ready to eat, reheat just the cheesy beef. Then, add it back to your fresh toppings and sauce. It tastes just as good as the day you made it.

Tips for Best Results

• Use lean ground beef to keep the bowls from being too greasy.
• Don’t skip the smoked paprika in the sauce for that authentic burger taste.
• Chop your lettuce fresh right before assembling for the best crunch.
• Drain the pickles well so they don’t add extra liquid to the bowl.
• Add the sauce right before eating to keep the vegetables bright.
• Use a lid to melt the cheese quickly without overcooking the meat.

Easy Flavor Ideas

• Swap the beef for ground turkey for a lighter protein option.
• Add sliced jalapeños if you love a little bit of extra heat.
• Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
• Mix in some crumbled bacon for a true bacon cheeseburger experience.

Common Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the sauce and fresh veggies separate from the beef. Reheat the beef before assembling your bowl.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely! These bowls have no bun and use low-carb ingredients. It is a satisfying keto meal that won’t leave you hungry.

I hope these High-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls bring some ease to your busy week. They are the perfect way to enjoy summer flavors without the stress. Happy cooking!

— Katie Wood

Print Recipe

High-Protein Cheeseburger Bowls

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time10 minutes mins

Total Time25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (90/10)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 4 cups shredded romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup dill pickle slices
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup mayonnais e
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula.
• Drain any excess rendered fat from the skillet and season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Reduce heat to low, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef, and cover the pan for 60 seconds until the cheese is fully melted.
• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika to create the signature burger sauce.
• Prepare four meal prep containers by placing 1 cup of shredded romaine lettuce in each.
• Evenly distribute the cheesy ground beef mixture over the lettuce bases.
• Top each bowl with cherry tomatoes, diced red onions, and dill pickle slices.
• Drizzle with the prepared sauce immediately before serving or store the sauce in small condiment containers for future use.