This burger bowl recipe, particularly the ground turkey version has recently become my go to recipe when I am too busy to cook anything too serious. It’s perhaps one of the easiest, fuss free, throw together salad bowls I can think of. Packed with protein and loaded with fresh veggies, it’s ideal for anyone, especially those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. You can customize it with lean beef, ground turkey, or even ground chicken, making it a versatile choice for the whole family!
Why This Recipe Rocks
As someone with a background in nutrition, I love meals that cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Here are some reasons why this burger bowl is a winner:
- It’s Delicious and Sooooo Easy: I think it’s the sauce and the pickles that make my taste buds do a happy dance.
- High in Protein: The juicy ground beef or turkey provides a solid protein boost, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Each serving can deliver around 30 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for active lifestyles.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: With no burger buns in sight, this recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities. You get all the classic burger toppings without any gluten worries.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer classic cheeseburger toppings like cheddar cheese and crispy bacon or want to keep it simple with fresh romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes, this bowl can adapt to your preferences.
Now, let’s get chopping and frying and shaking!
Healthy Burger Bowl Recipe with Special Sauce and Sauerkraut.
Equipment
- 1 non stick skillet
- 1 chopping board
- 1 large salad bowl or 3 small ones to serve each person individually
- 1 mixing spoon
- 1 good sharp knife
Ingredients
For the burger bowl.
- 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil to cook the meat
- 3 medium slices tomatoes
- 1 large cucumber sliced
- 3 cups chopped cos or romaine lettuce or any type of lettuce you prefer
- 1/4 cup red onion sliced or diced
- 1/2 cup tangy dill pickles
- 1/2 large white onion diced to cook the ground meat with
- 2 cloves chopped fresh garlic optional
- 3 slices cheddar cheese or you can use 1/2 cup of shredded cheese instead
- 2 cups of the secret ingredient which is homemade sauerkraut or store-bought is fine too (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 tsp salt to cook the meat
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper also for the meat
For the Healthy Special Sauce.
- 1/2 cup Greek or plain yoghurt
- 2 tbsp yellow mild mustard
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce (optional if you love a bit of heat)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce say it fast 3 times 😆
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp picle juice
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey together with chopped onion, fresh garlic and salt and pepper until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks.
- Prepare the Special Sauce: While the meat is cooking, combine all the sauce ingredients together in a air tight container and shake vigorously until everything is mixed well together. Shake it like your life depends on it!
- Assemble Your Bowl: In each serving bowl, layer the chopped lettuce as the base. Top with cooked meat, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, dill pickles and sauerkraut if you are adding some. You can assemble it however you like it.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle your special sauce over the top of each bowl.
- Serve: Serve it right away while the ground beef or turkey is still warm. Crunch away and feel great!
Notes
Nutritional Benefits of the Burger Bowl Recipe.
This burger bowl isn’t just about taste; it’s packed with nutritional benefits:
- Protein-Packed: Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of protein (depending on your meat choice), which is great for muscle growth and repair.
- Loaded with Vegetables: Fresh veggies add fiber, vitamins, and minerals while keeping calories low.
- Healthy Fats: Adding avocado or using olive oil in your cooking can provide heart-healthy fats.
Perfect for Gluten-Free Diets
For those managing celiac disease or gluten intolerance, finding meals that are safe and satisfying can be challenging. This burger bowl skips the bun entirely while still delivering all those classic burger flavors. The fresh ingredients used here are naturally gluten-free and can be prepared in a way that avoids cross-contamination.
Customization Options
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized:
- Meat Alternatives: If you prefer not to use beef or turkey, try using black bean burgers or lentils as a plant-based protein source.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even roasted sweet potatoes would work beautifully.
- Spice It Up: If you like heat, add some jalapeños or spicy salsa to your bowl for an extra kick!
Serving Suggestions
This burger bowl pairs wonderfully with various sides:
- Sweet Potato Fries: Bake some sweet potato fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for an easy dinner option.
- Air Fryer Potato Wedges: For a healthier twist on classic fries, try making potato wedges in an air fryer for crispy goodness without excess grease.
Final Thoughts
This Burger Bowl Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of a traditional burger without the gluten. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd on busy weeknights, this dish is sure to impress.
So next time you’re craving something hearty yet healthy—maybe even on burger night—give this burger bowl a try!
It’s quick to prepare and packed with everything you love about burgers—minus the buns. Enjoy!
What do you think of this burger bowl recipe? Is it worth 5 stars in your opinion?
