Easy Cheeseburger Salad – A Low-Carb, High-Protein Meal in 20 Minutes!

If you love cheeseburgers but want a healthier, low-carb alternative, this Easy Cheeseburger Salad is exactly what you need! Packed with all the classic flavors—juicy ground beef, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a creamy special sauce dressing—this dish offers a delicious way to enjoy your favorite burger without the bun. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or simply craving something different, this cheeseburger salad will quickly become a go-to recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Salad

• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – All the cheeseburger flavors without the bun.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Customizable – Adjust toppings to your taste.
• Family-Friendly – Even kids will love this fun twist on a cheeseburger.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 1 pound ground beef
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 cups chopped romaine or green leaf lettuce
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced
• ½ red onion, sliced
• ½ cup dill pickle chips, chopped or whole
• ⅓ cup cheddar cheese, diced or shredded

For the Special Sauce Dressing:

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, to thin the dressing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Special Sauce Dressing

• In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, ketchup, mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
• Mix well and season with salt to taste.
• For a thinner consistency, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk.
• Refrigerate the dressing while preparing the salad.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes until fully cooked.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
• Transfer the beef to a bowl lined with a paper towel to drain excess fat.

3. Assemble the Salad

• In a large bowl, place the chopped lettuce.
• Top with cooked beef, sliced tomatoes, red onion, dill pickles, and cheddar cheese.

4. Serve

• Drizzle the salad with the special sauce dressing.
• Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Customization Ideas

• Make It Spicy – Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Add More Protein – Use turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Dairy-Free Option – Use vegan mayo and omit the cheese.
• Add Crunch – Top with crispy bacon or roasted nuts.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 9g
• Fat: 34g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this cheeseburger salad ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the beef and store it separately. Assemble the salad just before serving.

2. What can I use instead of pickles?
Try capers, olives, or chopped cucumbers for a similar tangy flavor.

3. Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! Ranch, blue cheese, or balsamic vinaigrette work great too.

Conclusion

This Easy Cheeseburger Salad is a healthy, satisfying meal that delivers all the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger in a nutritious, low-carb format. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just need a quick dinner idea, this salad is a winner. Try it today and enjoy a fresh, protein-packed dish that’s both tasty and guilt-free!

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