
Introduction
About this Recipe
A cheeseburger without the bun? Is this a recipe that’s falling for typical “diet culture” where bread is demonized?
Don’t be mistaken. We hold nothing against carbs. Ultimately, bariatric surgery isn’t about banning entire food groups forever (unless they make you sick of course). It’s about creating a balanced lifestyle where most foods fit.
But it’s a fact that some starchy foods, like hamburger buns, aren’t always tolerated well after bariatric surgery. So, if you’re looking for a bariatric alternative for a classic cheeseburger – this recipe may be just what you were looking for!

serving:
1 burger
Ready In:
20 minutes
Nutritional facts per serving:
250 calories
22.7 g protein
17.1 g fat
1.0 g carbs
0.4 g fiber
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60g) lean ground beef
- 1 slice cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp paprika powder
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 slices tomato
- 1 lettuce leaf
- 1/2 pickle
- 2 slices mushrooms
For the sauce:
- 1 tsp low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 tsp mustard
If you’re having a hard time digesting beef, you could try ground turkey instead. Also, you can switch up the herbs and spices however you like. Why not give onion powder, garlic powder and Cajun spices a try for example.
If you’re not a huge fan of tomatoes, you can also recreate this bunless cheeseburger by using lettuce leafs instead.
Oh…and one last thing. Did you know that beef is a great source of iron? With an astonishing 3 mg per 3 ounces (90 g), you’re supporting your iron needs after bariatric surgery for sure!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
In a mixing bowl, add the ground beef, paprika powder, ground black pepper and salt. Mix until well combined.
Step 2
In a non-stick skillet add the patty and cook over medium heat until cooked to desire.
Step 3
In a non-stick pan, bake the patty on one side, about 7 minutes. Flip and bake on other side, about 7 minutes. Add the mushroom slices. Place the cheddar slice on top of the patty and close the lid for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
STEP 4
In a small bowl, add the Greek yogurt and mustard. Mix until well combined.
Step 5
Layer your cheeseburger in the following order: tomato slice, lettuce leaf, Greek yogurt sauce, beef patty, pickle, mushrooms and top with the second tomato slice.
Oven Baked Frozen Salmon with Maple Mustard Glaze
You’re busy and don’t have time to make dinner from scratch. Frozen foods can be incredibly convenient. Like these frozen salmon fillets for example. With a few basic ingredients, you can make this soft oven baked salmon under 30 minutes. Here’s how to make it!
Parmesan & Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
If you had bariatric surgery it’s extra important to be mindful about vitamin as this could be a common deficiency post-op. And guess what? Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin K. Let’s show you how to make this delicious side dish!
Scallions & Cheese Egg Muffins
Egg muffins for breakfast? No problem! With only 3 ingredients (plus seasoning) you whip up these babies in no time. Let’s show you how to make this!
Meatball Ricotta Pasta
It’s high in protein, creamy and ready within minutes. And the best part? You only need ONE PAN to make this delicious meatball ricotta pasta. Let’s give it a go!
Greek Yogurt Berry Ice Cream
Easy. Simple. Sweet And….high in protein! This bariatric friendly “ice cream” only has 3 main ingredients. Let’s show you how to make this!
Chicken Jalapeño Salad
Imagine this: juicy chicken with a kick of jalapeño flavor. Add some refreshing cucumber and carrots to the mix and there you have it: the base of this simple chicken salad.
Eggplant Boats with Chicken and Cheese
How to make a recipe that has both protein and fiber? How about these eggplant “boats”. They’re quick, easy and nutritious too. Click here to see how to make them!
Low-Sugar Chocolate Brownie
Ah finally! An alternative to brownies without the added sugars. Satisfy your sweet tooth the bariatric friendly way and click here to go straight to the recipe!
Zucchini Cups with Eggs
If you haven’t tried these zucchini cups then you’re seriously missing out! They’re simple. They’re quick. And they’re nutritious. Find out how to make this cute mini-meal today!
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream with Melon
Take a spoonful of this dreamy ice cream and experience the cool, refreshing melon flavors dancing on your taste buds. It’s time to dive into a bariatric-friendly ice cream experience that’s both delicious and nourishing. Enjoy the sweetness of success, one scoop at a time!