Go Back

Lean Burger Lettuce Cups

Enjoy the satisfying flavors of a classic burger in a lighter, bread-free format. These delicious lettuce cups are perfect for a low-carb, diabetes-friendly meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings 3
Calories 378 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Patties:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef e.g., 90% lean or leaner
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Savory Spread:

  • 2 Tablespoons light mayonnaise
  • 1.5 Tablespoons ketchup preferably a low-sugar variety
  • 1/2 Tablespoon dill pickle relish preferably a low-sugar variety
  • 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika or a small pinch
  • A small pinch of fine sea salt
  • A small pinch of ground black pepper

For Assembly:

  • 1 large head of Iceberg or Romaine lettuce cored and separated into large, sturdy cup-shaped leaves (you'll want about 6-9 good leaves to choose from or for doubling)
  • 3 slices American cheese
  • 1 medium tomato thinly sliced
  • 1/2 small red onion very thinly sliced

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Savory Spread: In a small mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the light mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, and smoked paprika. Season with a small pinch of fine sea salt and ground black pepper to taste. Stir well, then cover and place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the rest of the meal.
  • Form the Beef Patties: In a medium mixing bowl, add the lean ground beef. Drizzle the Worcestershire sauce over the beef, then sprinkle with the seasoned salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Gently combine the ingredients with your hands, being careful not to overmix (which can make the patties tough). Divide the beef mixture into three equal portions. Shape each portion into a firm patty, approximately 3/4-inch thick.
  • Cook the Patties: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a grill pan over medium to medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the formed patties onto the cooking surface. Allow space between them; for three patties, this should not be an issue in a standard large skillet. Cook the patties for approximately 3-5 minutes on the first side. Flip carefully and cook for another 3-5 minutes on the second side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness. For safety, ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160∘F (71∘C).
  • Melt Cheese: During the final minute of cooking, place one slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before removing the patties from the heat.
  • Assemble the Lettuce Cups: Lay out three large lettuce leaves on individual plates or a serving platter. Place one cheese-topped beef patty into each lettuce leaf. Spoon a generous amount of the chilled savory spread over each patty. Finish by topping with a few thin slices of tomato and red onion, according to preference.
  • Serve: To eat, gently fold the sides of the lettuce leaf around the fillings to create a handheld cup. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 of 3 servings):
  • Calories: 378 kcal
  • Protein: 34.3 g
  • Fat: 22.5 g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8.2 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1.9 g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 6.3 g (Total Carbohydrates - Fiber)
  • Sugars: 4.2 g
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used (especially for seasoned salt, ketchup, relish, and cheese) and exact portion sizes. For managing diabetes, it's always best to check specific product labels for carbohydrate and sugar content.