Cheeseburger Salad

A Healthy Burger Bowl with All the Flavor

Craving a cheeseburger but want a lighter option? This Bacon Cheeseburger Salad is the perfect way to satisfy your burger craving without the bun! By using turkey burgers and loading up on fresh, crisp veggies, this healthy burger recipe is a guilt-free way to enjoy all the flavors you love.

I came up with this cheeseburger bowl when I was looking for a healthy-ish dinner idea but couldn’t stop thinking about a juicy, bacon-loaded cheeseburger. By skipping the bun and adding lots of fresh vegetables, you cut unnecessary calories without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s insanely easy to make and can be customized with all your favorite burger toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is everything you love about a classic bacon cheeseburger, just without the bun. It’s packed with protein, loaded with fresh veggies, and easy to throw together. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just looking for a fresh twist on a burger night, this recipe has you covered.

One of the best parts? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The ingredients are naturally gluten-free as long as you check labels, so it’s a safe choice for anyone avoiding gluten. And let’s not forget the flavor—every bite has that classic burger taste, with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and all the best toppings.

Looking for more ways to enjoy a protein-packed salad? Try these:

• Flank Steak Salad – A bold and flavorful option for steak lovers.
• Sandwich Salad – Everything you love about a sub, but in a bowl!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To build the perfect turkey burger bowl, you’ll need a few simple ingredients.

For the Burger:

• 4 turkey burgers (seasoned with salt & pepper)
• 4 slices of cheese
• 8 strips of bacon (make it insanely easy and use pre-cooked bacon!)

For the Salad Base:

• Lettuce or salad mix
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• Dill pickle chips
• Optional toppings: onion, bell peppers, jalapeños, sesame seeds

For Serving:

• Ketchup and mustard for drizzling

How to Make a Cheeseburger Salad

*printable recipe card is available at the bottom of this page

Step One: Cook the Bacon

Bacon is best when it’s crispy and evenly cooked, so the easiest way to prepare it is in the oven. Place your bacon on a foil-lined baking sheet and pop it into a cold oven. Then, heat the oven to 400°F and let the bacon cook as the oven preheats. This helps it crisp up perfectly without any splattering mess.

Step Two: Cook the Turkey Burgers

While the bacon is cooking, prepare the turkey burgers on the stove, grill, or even in the air fryer. Turkey burgers are a leaner alternative to beef but still deliver that juicy, delicious bite. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, then top with cheese while they’re still hot so it melts beautifully.

Step Three: Assemble the Salad

Start by washing and drying your lettuce using a large salad spinner—it makes prepping greens quick and easy. Then, dice your tomatoes and any other toppings using Ninja knives, because a sharp, quality knife set makes all the difference when slicing veggies.

Now, it’s time to plate! Start with a generous bed of lettuce, followed by the chopped tomatoes, pickles, and any additional toppings. Place your cheesy turkey burger right on top, then crumble crispy bacon over everything. Finally, drizzle with ketchup and mustard for that true cheeseburger bowl experience.

What to Serve with Cheeseburger Salad

If you need a delicious side, these recipes pair perfectly with your cheeseburger bowl:

• Easy Baked Beans – A smoky, sweet, and savory classic.
• Southern Potato Salad – Creamy and full of flavor, a must-have for any burger meal.
• Classic Margarita – Because nothing pairs better with a summer salad than a refreshing drink!

Cheeseburger Salad Topping Ideas

One of the best parts about this healthy burger meal is how easy it is to customize. You can keep it classic or add extra toppings to make it your own. Try these ideas:

• Shredded cheese – If you prefer shredded cheese, use a rotary grater to get fresh, perfectly grated cheese in seconds.
• Sliced avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Grilled onions or mushrooms – A great way to add extra flavor.
• Spicy kick – If you love heat, toss on some jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.

Make It Your Own

This turkey burger bowl is already packed with flavor, but you can easily adapt it to fit your preferences:

• Make it dairy-free: Simply skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Swap the protein: Not a fan of turkey burgers? Use beef patties, chicken burgers, or even a plant-based option.
• Add more crunch: Sprinkle on crispy onions or croutons for extra texture.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers separately to make meal prep easier. Keep your lettuce and toppings in one container, your turkey burger in another, and store your pickles in a pickle keeper to keep them fresh (and avoid getting your fingers in the juice!).

If you’re making this in advance, store any dressings or sauces separately and add them just before serving. This will keep your salad crisp and prevent any sogginess.