Ultimate Cheeseburger Salad Recipe: Healthy, Low-Carb Lunch with Ground Beef & Feta
This easy cheeseburger salad recipe is a flavorful twist on your favorite burger, made healthy. Packed with protein-rich extra lean ground beef, fresh arugula, crunchy almonds, and creamy feta, it's everything you love about a cheeseburger in a nutritious bowl. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Recipe at a Glance
· Prep Time: 5 minutes
· Cook Time: 10 minutes
· Total Time: 15 minutes
· Servings: 2
· Calories: 250 per serving
· Protein: 28g per serving
Why You’ll Love This recipe
· A low carb cheeseburger salad that tastes indulgent without the bun
· Uses extra lean ground beef for high protein and reduced fat
· Great for a quick cheeseburger salad lunch or dinner
· Works for keto, low-carb, and healthy lifestyles
Ingredients
For the Salad:
· 156g arugula (about 5 cups)
· ¼ oz fresh lemon juice (about 1.5 teaspoons)
· 1 teaspoon Italiano spice
· 1 teaspoon salt
· 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
· 3 teaspoons sliced almonds
For the Ground Beef
· 225g (about 1/2 lb) extra lean ground beef
· ½ tablespoon Middle Eastern seasoning
· ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, Middle Eastern seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Cook for 8–10 minutes, breaking up the beef until browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat.
2. Assemble the Salad Base
In a large salad bowl, add arugula. Drizzle lemon juice over top, and sprinkle in salt and Italiano spice. Toss gently.
3. Top arugula with crumbled feta and sliced almonds for crunch and flavor.
4. Combine & Serve
Add warm ground beef to the salad. Toss lightly or leave layered for presentation. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
· Calories: 250
· Protein: 28g
· Fiber: 2g
Variations & Substitutions
· Cheese: Try shredded cheddar for a classic cheeseburger salad feel.
· Greens: Swap arugula for romaine, spinach, or mixed greens.
· Nuts: Use walnuts or sunflower seeds instead of almonds.
· Protein: Ground turkey or grilled chicken are great substitutes.
. Spice Blend: If you don't have Middle Eastern seasoning, use a mix of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.
· Dressing: Add a drizzle of avocado oil or homemade cheeseburger salad dressing with Greek yogurt and mustard.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
· Make Ahead: Cook the ground beef and store separately in an airtight container.
· Store Greens & Toppings: Keep arugula, feta, and almonds dry in a salad container.
· Reheat: Warm beef in microwave or skillet and toss into greens when ready to eat.
· Shelf Life: Assembled salad (without dressing) lasts 3 days in the fridge. Beef keeps for up to 4 days.
· Make Ahead: Cook the ground beef and store separately in an airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this cheeseburger salad keto friendly?
A: Yes! With no bun, minimal carbs, and high-fat toppings like feta and almonds, it fits keto macros perfectly.
Q: Can I make this into a cheeseburger bowl?
A: Absolutely. Serve the ingredients layered in a bowl with optional additions like avocado or chopped pickles.
Q: What does Middle Eastern seasoning taste like?
A: It often includes cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon—offering a smoky, earthy flavor that enhances the beef.
Q: Can I add a cheeseburger salad dressing?
A: Yes. A mix of Greek yogurt, mustard, lemon juice, and pickle brine makes a great zesty topping.
Q: How many calories are in a cheeseburger salad?
A: This version is about 250-300 kcal per serving. Much lower than a traditional cheeseburger and fries!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the ultimate cheeseburger salad lunch idea that’s healthy, low carb, and high in protein, this recipe is a must-try. With vibrant arugula, seasoned beef, and the perfect crunch from almonds and feta, it delivers all the flavor of a burger in salad form. Whether you're meal prepping or cooking a quick dinner, this classic cheeseburger salad is endlessly adaptable.
For more cheeseburger salad recipes, keto salad bowls, and healthy dinner salads, don’t forget to subscribe or pin this for later!
Tried this recipe? Let us know what you think leave a comment below—What would you add to enhance?
