Description
A hearty, protein-packed meal prep solution that recreates the comfort of a classic diner burger without the heavy bun. These bowls are designed to stay crisp and flavorful for up to four days in the fridge.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs 80/20 ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup dill pickle chips
- 2 heads romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp relish
- Dash of vinegar
Instructions
- Wash and chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- If using 80/20 beef, drain excess fat. Add the diced onion and garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking until softened.
- Turn off the heat. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and vinegar to make the burger sauce.
- Divide the chopped lettuce among meal prep containers. Top with the seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar cheese, and pickle chips.
- Store the burger sauce in a separate small container or compartment.
- Seal containers tightly and refrigerate. Add sauce right before eating to keep lettuce crisp.
Notes
For best results, shred block cheese yourself as it melts better. Keep the sauce separate until ready to eat to prevent soggy lettuce. Ensure beef is completely cool before packing to avoid condensation. Romaine or iceberg lettuce holds up best for meal prep; avoid butter lettuce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 28
Keywords: ground beef, meal prep, burger bowls, healthy lunch, high protein, gluten-free, easy dinner, meal prep ideas