Description
Enjoy a delicious low-carb twist on the classic cheeseburger with these Easy Cheeseburger Lettuce Wraps. Juicy seasoned ground beef patties are cooked to perfection in a skillet, then wrapped in fresh, crisp lettuce leaves and topped with melty cheese, ripe tomatoes, crunchy onions, tangy pickles, and creamy avocado or guacamole. This recipe is perfect for a quick, healthy meal that is both flavorful and satisfying without the bun.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20) – great flavor and juiciness; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhances flavor; adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon pepper – adds a nice kick; adjust to taste
For the Wraps and Toppings
- 8 large lettuce leaves (Butterhead, Iceberg, Romaine) – use large, sturdy leaves for perfect wrapping
- 4 slices cheese – adds creaminess; swap with dairy-free cheese for a vegan alternative if desired
- 1 cup tomatoes – fresh and juicy, sliced
- 1 cup onions – raw for crunch or grilled for a sweeter taste
- 1 cup pickles – sliced, provides a tangy bite
- 1 avocado or 1 cup guacamole – offers creaminess and healthy fat content
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef with salt and pepper. Be careful not to overmix to keep the patties tender. Shape the mixture into burger patties about 1-inch thick.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the patties and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
- Prepare the Lettuce Leaves: While the patties are cooking, wash and thoroughly dry the lettuce leaves to prevent sogginess. This helps maintain a crisp texture for wrapping.
- Assemble the Wraps: Place each warm burger patty into a lettuce leaf. Add a slice of cheese on top if desired, then layer with your choice of tomatoes, onions, pickles, and avocado or guacamole.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your cheeseburger lettuce wraps immediately for the best texture and flavor experience. The freshness of the vegetables and warmth of the patties make for a perfect bite every time.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F.
- Dry lettuce leaves well to prevent the wraps from becoming soggy.
- Customize toppings according to your preference or dietary needs.
- For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- You can grill onions before adding them for a sweeter, mellow flavor.
- Dairy-free cheese can be used to make this recipe vegan-friendly when paired with a plant-based patty.
