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Healthy High Protein Burger Bowls

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A quick, easy, and wholesome meal featuring lean ground beef, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing served over greens or cauliflower rice. Perfect for a high-protein, low-carb diet without the bun.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese or dairy-free alternative
  • 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños (optional)
  • Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnish
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. If using quinoa, rinse 1/2 cup under cold water, then combine with 1 cup water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork. For cauliflower rice, steam or sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently without overworking.
  3. Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef mixture and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up into bite-sized pieces until browned and cooked through (internal temp 160°F). Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, shred carrots, and slice avocado just before serving.
  6. Divide mixed greens among four bowls. Spoon cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice over greens. Add cooked beef evenly on top. Arrange tomatoes, cucumber, carrots, and avocado slices around the meat.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and pickled jalapeños if using. Drizzle dressing over each bowl and garnish with fresh herbs.
  8. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. If preparing ahead, keep dressing and avocado separate until ready to eat.

Notes

Avoid overmixing the ground beef to keep texture tender. Drain excess fat after cooking beef to prevent greasiness. Slice avocado just before serving to avoid browning. Cook quinoa ahead to save time. Dressing can be adjusted for sweetness or tanginess. Swap proteins or bases for variety.

Nutrition

Keywords: high protein, burger bowl, healthy meal, low carb, gluten free, easy dinner, meal prep, lean beef, quinoa, cauliflower rice