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Keto Southwest Hamburger Bowl - A Flavor-Packed Low-Carb Meal

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the beef:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (if needed)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1–2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2–3 tbsp water or beef broth (to loosen the sauce)
  • For the bowl:
  • 4 cups shredded romaine or chopped mixed greens
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice, cooked (optional base for extra volume)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 small avocado, sliced or diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, Pepper Jack, or Mexican-blend cheese
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled, optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • For the creamy Southwest drizzle:
  • 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek-style full-fat yogurt
  • 1–2 tbsp mayonnaise (for richness)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp cumin
  • Pinch of salt
  • Water to thin, as needed

Method
 

  1. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, stir together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Add a splash of water to reach a drizzle-friendly consistency. Set aside.
  2. Prep the base: Add greens to bowls. If using cauliflower rice, warm it in a skillet with a little oil and salt, then divide between bowls.
  3. Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add oil if your beef is very lean. Crumble in the beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned with crispy edges, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Season it: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add tomato paste and 2–3 tablespoons of water or broth. Cook 1–2 minutes until the beef is coated and saucy.
  5. Assemble: Top greens with a generous scoop of the seasoned beef. Add tomatoes, red onion, avocado, cheese, jalapeños, and cilantro.
  6. Finish and serve: Drizzle with the creamy Southwest sauce. Squeeze lime over the top. Taste and adjust salt or acidity if needed.