
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.
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