Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550–650
- Protein: 40–50 grams
- Net Carbs: 5–7 grams
- Fat: 40–45 grams
Values vary depending on portion sizes and dressing amount.
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 for richer flavor or 90/10 for leaner option)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Salad Base
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup dill pickles, chopped
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional; omit for lower carbs)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional but recommended for healthy fats)
For the Keto Burger Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar-free ketchup
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula.
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Cook for 7–10 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if desired, depending on your fat preference.
Allow the beef to cool slightly before adding to the salad so it does not wilt the lettuce too much.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, sugar-free ketchup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Adjust seasoning if needed. For a thinner dressing, add a small splash of water.
Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl or individual serving bowls:
- Add chopped lettuce as the base.
- Top with warm seasoned beef.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the beef so it slightly melts.
- Add pickles, onions, tomatoes (if using), and avocado.
Drizzle dressing over the top or toss everything together for even coating.
Optional Add-Ons
- Crispy bacon pieces
- A fried egg
- Blue cheese instead of cheddar
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Jalapeños for heat
How to Increase Protein
If you want a higher protein version:
- Increase beef to 2 pounds total.
- Add ½ cup cottage cheese (low carb) to the salad.
- Include a boiled egg per serving.
- Use leaner ground beef and slightly reduce dressing to maintain balance.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
For meal prep, store components separately:
- Cooked beef in one container
- Chopped vegetables in another
- Dressing in a sealed jar
Combine just before eating to keep the lettuce crisp.
Refrigerate up to 4 days.
