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.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Did you that bell peppers are high in vitamin C and fiber? And how fun is it to turn a bell pepper into a mini-bowl stuffed with your favorite high-protein food source?
Cottage Cheese Dip
Looking for a high-protein dip that serves your post-op goals and is a nice welcome to your taste buds too? This cottage cheese dip with Ranch seasoning transforms your snacks from bland to best!
Grilled Zucchini “Sandwiches”
What if you could turn a few slices of zucchini into a mini-version of a grilled sandwich (minus the starches that is!) – let’s show you how!
Banana Egg Muffins
If you’re craving something sweet for breakfast, but still want to prioritize your protein goals (of course you want that!) – then these banana egg muffins will do the trick.
Cucumber Burger Sliders
You can’t always tolerate bread after bariatric surgery. And that’s why we created this bariatric friendly alternative to the traditional hamburger sliders. And the best part? They’re the perfect bite-size too!
Bean Casserole
Beans for dinner? Sure! So why not try this bean casserole next. A great alternative if you’re not in the mood for chicken, meat or fish!
Chicken Teriyaki Lettuce Boats
If you’re looking for a savory mini-meal with an astonishing amount of 18 grams of protein per serving, then these chicken teriyaki lettuce boats won’t disappoint!
Lasagna Muffins
If you’re looking for a savory bite that will help you meet your protein goals too – well..you just found yourself the perfect meal! Click here to get the recipe for these lasagna muffins!
Clear Chicken Soup
One of the most underrated high protein soups to add to your bariatric recipes: home-made chicken soup! Learn how to make this delicious soup today!
Roasted Chickpeas
Crispy on the outside – soft and warm on the inside. These crunchy chickpeas are an all time favorite, and here’s why!