Bunless Burger

This Lettuce Burger Recipe is made with caramelized onions, ground beef, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, American cheese, butter lettuce, tomato slices and salt and pepper.

If you're looking for a lighter alternative to traditional burger buns or simply want to add some extra greens to your meal, lettuce bun burgers are a fantastic choice. The crisp and refreshing lettuce leaves serve as the perfect vessel to hold all the mouthwatering flavors of a classic burger while reducing the carb and calorie content. Get ready to indulge in a guilt-free burger experience that will leave you satisfied and feeling great. Let's get started on this lettuce-wrapped culinary adventure!

This Keto Double Lettuce Burger is a low-carb and super tasty burger than can be enjoyed with or without a bun. The quality will always be better when you make your own burger  vs. buying the patty from a fast food restaurant. As for the ketchup, there are sugar-free options at your local grocery store.

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Keto Pork Ribs and my Keto Beef Stroganoff. If you want more keto recipes, check out these Keto Recipes for Weight Loss.

What is a Lettuce Burger?

A lettuce burger, also known as a lettuce-wrapped burger or lettuce bun burger, is a type of burger where the traditional bun is replaced with large lettuce leaves to hold the burger fillings. Instead of using a bread-based bun, lettuce leaves serve as a lighter and low-carb alternative. The lettuce leaves, typically a sturdy variety like iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce, are used to encase the burger patty and toppings, creating a fresh and crisp outer layer. Lettuce burgers have gained popularity among those following low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diets, as well as individuals looking to reduce their overall calorie intake. They offer a lighter and refreshing option while still delivering the classic burger flavors. Lettuce burgers can be customized with various fillings, toppings, and condiments, allowing for endless flavor combinations and creativity.

Why you will love this Lettuce Burger Recipe

• Low in Carbs and Calories: One of the main reasons lettuce burgers are popular is their low-carb and low-calorie nature. By replacing the traditional burger bun with lettuce leaves, you significantly reduce the carbohydrate and calorie content of the burger. This makes them an excellent option for those following a low-carb or calorie-restricted diet.
• Light and Refreshing: Lettuce adds a refreshing and crisp element to the burger. The cool crunch of lettuce leaves provides a satisfying contrast to the savory and juicy burger patty. It adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors of the fillings and toppings.
• Gluten-Free and Grain-Free: For individuals with gluten sensitivities or those who follow a gluten-free diet, lettuce burgers are an ideal choice. By eliminating the bread bun, you avoid any potential issues related to gluten-containing grains, making the burger suitable for gluten-free lifestyles.
• Versatile and Customizable: Lettuce burgers are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit individual preferences. You can experiment with different types of lettuce, such as iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce, each offering a slightly different texture and flavor. Additionally, you can add a variety of fillings, toppings, and condiments to create endless flavor combinations and cater to your personal taste.
• Healthier Option: Lettuce burgers provide a healthier alternative to traditional burgers. The substitution of lettuce for a bread bun reduces the overall carbohydrate and calorie content of the meal. Additionally, lettuce is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a nutrient-dense meal.

Lettuce Burger Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Ground beef
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Worcestershire sauce
• American cheese
• Boston lettuce
• Tomato

See recipe card for Lettuce Burger Recipe quantities.

How to make Lettuce Burger

In a large deep skillet over medium heat, add oil and wait for it to shimmer. Add the onions and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, until they start to caramelize. Reduce the heat to medium, add the water, and continue to caramelize for another 30 minutes, or until deeply browned but not burnt. Season with salt and set aside.

In a large bowl, season the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder. Divide the mixture into 8 separate pieces and form them into very thin patties.

Heat a grill to 450°F, or hot enough that you can only hold your hand above the grill grates for a second. Cook on the grill for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or your desired doneness.

Place two patties on top of a lettuce leaf, top with onions, tomato slices, and wrap with another lettuce leaf. Repeat with three more burgers.  

What to serve with Lettuce Burgers

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, sweet potato fries make a fantastic side dish for lettuce burgers. Bake them in the oven or air fryer for a healthier alternative to traditional fries. Check out my Air fried Sweet Potato Fries.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and creamy coleslaw pairs well with the freshness of lettuce burgers. Opt for a vinegar-based slaw or a creamy mayonnaise-based slaw, depending on your preference.
• Grilled Vegetables: Take advantage of the grill and prepare a medley of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, or mushrooms. The smoky flavors and charred edges complement the lightness of the lettuce burgers.
• Side Salad: Serve a side salad with a variety of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and your favorite salad dressings. This adds extra freshness and crunch to the meal. Check out my Fennel Salad Recipe.
• Baked Beans: Hearty and flavorful baked beans are a classic choice to accompany lettuce burgers. They offer a satisfying and savory component to the meal.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Add some Mexican-inspired flair by serving homemade guacamole with crispy tortilla chips. The creamy and tangy guacamole complements the lightness of the lettuce burgers.
• Fruit Salad: Refreshing and colorful fruit salad is a great option for a light and refreshing side dish. Choose a variety of seasonal fruits and toss them together for a sweet and juicy accompaniment.

Substitutions

• Olive Oil: You can use other cooking oils such as avocado oil, coconut oil, or canola oil as a substitute for olive oil. Each oil may have a slightly different flavor profile, so choose one that suits your taste preferences.
• Onion: If you don't have onions or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with shallots or scallions for a milder taste. You can also use onion flakes or onion powder as a convenient alternative.
• Ground Beef: Ground turkey, ground chicken, or a plant-based alternative like black beans, lentils, or mushrooms can be used instead of ground beef. These substitutions offer different textures and flavors, allowing you to customize your lettuce burgers to your dietary preferences.
• Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: If you don't have onion powder or garlic powder, you can substitute them with fresh minced onions and garlic. Simply sauté them lightly before adding them to the burger mixture.
• Worcestershire Sauce: If you don't have Worcestershire sauce or prefer to avoid it, you can use soy sauce or tamari as a substitute. They add a savory umami flavor to the burger patties.
• American Cheese: Feel free to substitute American cheese with your preferred cheese. Cheddar, Swiss, Pepper Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative are great choices to melt over your burger patties.
• Boston Lettuce: While Boston lettuce is commonly used for lettuce bun burgers, you can use other lettuce varieties such as iceberg lettuce, butter lettuce, or romaine lettuce as substitutes. These lettuce varieties provide a crisp and refreshing base for your burger.
• Tomato: If you're out of fresh tomatoes or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with sliced avocado, roasted red peppers, or even pickles for some tangy crunch.

Lettuce Burger Recipe Variations

• Asian-Inspired Lettuce Burger: Infuse your lettuce burger with Asian flavors by marinating the burger patty in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Top it with sliced avocado, pickled cucumbers, and a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo.
• Mediterranean Lettuce Burger: Give your lettuce burger a Mediterranean twist by seasoning the patty with a blend of herbs like oregano, thyme, and parsley. Top it with crumbled feta cheese, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
• BBQ Lettuce Burger: Brush the burger patty with your favorite BBQ sauce and grill it to perfection. Add crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, and a slather of tangy BBQ sauce for a smoky and savory delight.
• Tex-Mex Lettuce Burger: Season the patty with Tex-Mex spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Top it with guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a flavorful and spicy Tex-Mex experience.
• Greek-Inspired Lettuce Burger: Combine ground lamb with Mediterranean spices like garlic, cumin, and mint. Grill the patty and serve it in a lettuce wrap with tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and fresh mint leaves for a taste of Greece.

Check out my Keto Chicken Adobo.

Equipment

To make my Lettuce Burger Recipe, you'll need the following equipment:

• Grill or Stovetop Pan: A grill or stovetop pan is essential for cooking the burger patties. Whether you prefer the smoky flavor of a grill or the convenience of a stovetop, ensure you have a suitable cooking surface.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is needed to combine the ground meat with seasonings and other ingredients to form the burger patties.
• Knife and Cutting Board: You'll need a knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables and slicing toppings like tomatoes and onions.
• Spatula or Tongs: Use a spatula or tongs to flip the burger patties while cooking and transfer them to serving plates.
• Lettuce: Choose a head of lettuce, such as iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce, and wash and dry the leaves thoroughly. Remove any damaged or wilted leaves and separate them for use as the burger "bun."
• Serving Plates: Have plates ready for assembling and serving the lettuce burgers.
• Optional: If you're grilling the burgers, you might need charcoal or propane for a charcoal or gas grill, along with appropriate utensils like grilling tongs and a spatula.

How to store Lettuce Burger

Storing lettuce burgers can be a bit tricky because lettuce leaves tend to wilt and become soggy when exposed to moisture. However, you can follow these steps to store lettuce burgers properly:

1. Separate the Components: Disassemble the lettuce burger by removing any condiments, sauces, and toppings from the lettuce leaves. This will prevent the lettuce from getting soggy.
2. Store the Patty Separately: Place the cooked burger patty in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have uncooked patties, it's best to cook them fresh when needed.
3. Store the Lettuce: Wash and dry the lettuce leaves thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Wrap the lettuce leaves in paper towels or place them in a resealable bag lined with paper towels. This helps absorb any moisture and keeps the lettuce crisp. Store the lettuce in the refrigerator's crisper drawer or in a separate section where it won't get squished.
4. Assemble When Ready to Serve: When you're ready to enjoy your lettuce burger, take out the stored components from the refrigerator. Reassemble the burger by placing the patty onto the fresh lettuce leaves and adding your desired toppings and condiments.

Lettuce Burger Recipe Top tips

• Choose Sturdy Lettuce: Opt for lettuce varieties that have sturdy leaves, such as iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce. These types of lettuce can hold up well as a bun substitute and provide a satisfying crunch.
• Properly Prep the Lettuce: Wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and dry them properly before using. Excess moisture can make the lettuce wilt quickly, so make sure to pat the leaves dry or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
• Season the Burger Patty: Add flavor to your burger patty by seasoning it well with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs. This will ensure that the patty itself is tasty and doesn't rely solely on the toppings for flavor.
• Cook the Burger Properly: Whether you're grilling or pan-frying the burger patty, ensure it is cooked to the desired level of doneness. This will ensure a juicy and flavorful patty that complements the crisp lettuce leaves.
• Consider Toppings and Condiments: Choose toppings and condiments that complement the flavors of the lettuce burger. Options like sliced tomatoes, onions, pickles, cheese, and sauces such as mayo, ketchup, or mustard can enhance the overall taste and texture of the burger.
• Wrap or Stack Carefully: When assembling the lettuce burger, be gentle and careful to avoid tearing the lettuce leaves. Wrap the lettuce leaves around the patty securely or stack the leaves in a way that holds the fillings together without falling apart.
• Serve Immediately: Lettuce burgers are best enjoyed immediately after assembly. The longer the lettuce sits with the fillings and condiments, the more likely it is to become wilted and soggy. Serve the burgers right away to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and the freshness of the toppings.
• Customize and Experiment: Lettuce burgers offer endless opportunities for customization and experimentation. Feel free to play around with different flavor combinations, toppings, and condiments to find your favorite combination. Don't be afraid to get creative and try new things!

Lettuce Burger Recipe

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• Author: Maxine Dubois
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Lettuce Burger Recipe is made with caramelized onions, ground beef, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, American cheese, butter lettuce, tomato slices and salt and pepper.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 yellow onions, finely sliced
• ½ cup water
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 slices American cheese
• 8 butter or Boston lettuce leaves
• 8 tomato slices
• Salt and pepper, as desired

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Instructions

1. In a large deep skillet over medium heat, add oil and wait for it to shimmer. Add the onions and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, until they start to caramelize. Reduce the heat to medium, add the water, and continue to caramelize for another 30 minutes, or until deeply browned but not burnt. Season with salt and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, season the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, and garlic powder. Divide the mixture into 8 separate pieces and form them into very thin patties.
3. Heat a grill to 450°F. Cook the patties on the grill for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or your desired doneness.
4. Place two patties on top of a lettuce leaf, top with onions, tomato slices, and wrap with another lettuce leaf. Repeat with three more burgers.  

Notes

• Choose Sturdy Lettuce: Opt for lettuce varieties that have sturdy leaves, such as iceberg, romaine, or butter lettuce. These types of lettuce can hold up well as a bun substitute and provide a satisfying crunch.
• Properly Prep the Lettuce: Wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and dry them properly before using. Excess moisture can make the lettuce wilt quickly, so make sure to pat the leaves dry or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.
• Season the Burger Patty: Add flavor to your burger patty by seasoning it well with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herbs. This will ensure that the patty itself is tasty and doesn't rely solely on the toppings for flavor.
• Cook the Burger Properly: Whether you're grilling or pan-frying the burger patty, ensure it is cooked to the desired level of doneness. This will ensure a juicy and flavorful patty that complements the crisp lettuce leaves.
• Consider Toppings and Condiments: Choose toppings and condiments that complement the flavors of the lettuce burger. Options like sliced tomatoes, onions, pickles, cheese, and sauces such as mayo, ketchup, or mustard can enhance the overall taste and texture of the burger.
• Wrap or Stack Carefully: When assembling the lettuce burger, be gentle and careful to avoid tearing the lettuce leaves. Wrap the lettuce leaves around the patty securely or stack the leaves in a way that holds the fillings together without falling apart.
• Serve Immediately: Lettuce burgers are best enjoyed immediately after assembly. The longer the lettuce sits with the fillings and condiments, the more likely it is to become wilted and soggy. Serve the burgers right away to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and the freshness of the toppings.
• Customize and Experiment: Lettuce burgers offer endless opportunities for customization and experimentation. Feel free to play around with different flavor combinations, toppings, and condiments to find your favorite combination. Don't be afraid to get creative and try new things!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 389.5
• Sugar: 0.2 g
• Sodium: 214.1 mg
• Fat: 32.1 g
• Saturated Fat: 15.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 2.7 g
• Fiber: 0.7 g
• Protein: 23.0 g
• Cholesterol: 74.8 mg

Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.