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Delicious cheeseburger salad with fresh ingredients and toppings

Cheeseburger Salad

A fresh and easy take on the classic cheeseburger, this salad combines seasoned ground beef with fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing for a delightful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb ground beef For that classic cheeseburger flavor; turkey or plant-based meat makes a great substitute.
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce Adds depth and umami; soy sauce is a good alternative if you’re gluten-free.
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard Provides a tangy kick; yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder For that garlicky goodness; fresh garlic is a more robust option if you desire.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste Always adjust according to your preference.
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce, washed and chopped Crisp base; mixed greens will enhance the flavors if you want variety.
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved Sweet and juicy; consider diced bell peppers for additional crunch.
  • 1-2 avocados, sliced Contributes creaminess; use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 1 small red onion, diced Provides a sharp bite; green onions can serve as a milder alternative.
  • 1 heaping cup cheddar cheese, shredded Offers that gooey cheeseburger flavor; feel free to experiment with different cheeses.
  • 1/2 cup dill pickle slices Essential for that tangy crunch; try cornichons for something unique.
  • Sesame seeds (garnish) Adds a nutty touch; sunflower seeds can add crunch as well.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Creamy base; opt for Greek yogurt for fewer calories.
  • 1/3 cup ketchup Sweet and tangy; sub with homemade tomato sauce if desired.
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard For added zing; yellow mustard can be substituted.
  • 1 Tbsp white vinegar To balance flavors; apple cider vinegar adds a different undertone.
  • 1 Tbsp pickle juice Enhances the flavor profile; leave out if you prefer less tang.
  • 1 Tbsp pickle relish For sweetness; minced fresh pickles offer a chunkier texture.
  • 1 Tbsp sugar Balances acidity; maple syrup can provide a natural alternative.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • a pinch paprika Adds warmth and depth; smoked paprika brings an interesting twist.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine. Remove from heat.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, pickle juice, pickle relish, sugar, salt, pepper, and paprika to create a creamy dressing.
Assembly
  1. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, cheddar cheese, and dill pickles. Top with the seasoned ground beef.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds. Serve with dressing on the side or drizzle desired amounts over the salad.

Notes

Avoid skipping the seasoning on the beef, and don't overdress the salad to prevent sogginess. Let the beef cool slightly before adding it to the salad.