Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Bowls

Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Bowls deliver all the classic flavors of a juicy cheeseburger without the bun. This low-carb meal is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh toppings, these bowls are ideal for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle.

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Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Bacon

• 6 slices bacon

For the Bowl Base

• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, use in moderation for keto)
• 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

For the Cheese

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a cheddar–Monterey Jack blend

For the Keto Burger Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
• 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish (sugar-free)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board and knife
• Paper towels

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. Place the bacon strips in a cold skillet and turn heat to medium.
2. Cook until crispy, turning occasionally.
3. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
4. Once cooled, crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.
5. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor.

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Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat the reserved bacon fat or olive oil in the skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
4. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned.
5. Drain excess grease if necessary, leaving a small amount for flavor.

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Step 3: Prepare the Burger Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
3. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

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Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

1. Divide the chopped lettuce evenly among serving bowls.
2. Top each bowl with cooked ground beef while it is still warm.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef so it slightly melts.
4. Add crumbled bacon, pickles, tomatoes, and sliced onion.

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Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Drizzle the keto burger sauce generously over each bowl.
2. Serve immediately while the beef is warm and the toppings are fresh.

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Helpful Tips

• Choose full-fat ground beef to keep the dish satisfying and keto-compliant.
• If you prefer, form the beef into patties instead of crumbles and slice them before adding to the bowls.
• For extra richness, add sliced avocado or a fried egg on top.
• To reduce carbs further, omit tomatoes or replace them with extra pickles.

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Meal Prep and Storage

• Store all components separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Reheat the beef and bacon before assembling for best flavor and texture.
• The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

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Why This Recipe Is Keto-Friendly

• No bun or high-carb ingredients.
• High in protein and healthy fats.
• Uses sugar-free condiments and fresh, low-carb vegetables.