When I first tried Cheeseburger Salad-in-a-Jar, I was immediately wowed by the flavors. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the beloved components of a cheeseburger in a fresh and vibrant salad form. This meal prep wonder not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning layered in transparent mason jars, making it a fun and healthy option for busy days. The best part? It only takes about 30 minutes to prepare, and it lasts in the fridge for up to five days, which means you’ve got lunch sorted for the week!
What really makes Cheeseburger Salad special is that it combines the comforting, savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the crunch of fresh veggies. It’s completely customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, it’s a delightful choice for both adults and kids alike.
Why you’ll love this
- Ideal for meal prep and on-the-go lunches.
- Combines all your favorite cheeseburger flavors.
- Packed with fresh veggies for a nutritious boost.
- Great for portion control with individual jars.
- Keeps well for days, making it convenient for busy schedules.
"Perfectly combines the best of a cheeseburger in a healthy way!"
Preparing it: quick look
To create Cheeseburger Salad-in-a-Jar, start by cooking the extra-lean ground beef until browned. While it cools, chop up some fresh vegetables, and prepare the homemade burger sauce. Then, simply layer the ingredients into mason jars and refrigerate. It’s as simple as that!
What you’ll need
- 1 tsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
- 1-1/2 lbs extra-lean ground beef
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 red onion (diced)
- 1/2 cup dill pickles (chopped)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (diced)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups lettuce of choice (romaine, bibb, or butterhead, chopped)
- 1 cup homemade mayo or plain Greek yogurt
- 3 Tbsps tomato puree (tomato passata, or ketchup)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 4 x 28 oz wide-mouth jars with lids
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Ground beef can be replaced with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Dill pickles can be substituted with sweet pickles or omitted for a less tangy flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, swap in black beans or lentils for the beef.
- Homemade mayo can easily be replaced with store-bought or a vegan alternative if preferred.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat your avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until nicely browned, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Season with a pinch of sea salt and pepper.
- Once the beef is browned, set it aside and allow it to cool.
- While the meat cools, prepare the remaining ingredients: dice the red onion and cherry tomatoes, and chop your lettuce.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the homemade mayo (or Greek yogurt), tomato puree, chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
- Divide the sauce equally among four wide-mouth mason jars, adding it to the bottom.
- Next, layer the cooked ground beef evenly into each jar followed by the diced onions, tomatoes, chopped pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, and finally, the lettuce.
- Seal the jars with lids and refrigerate.
- Enjoy this delicious meal prep idea all week long!
Pro Tip: Let the cooked beef cool slightly before layering it in the jars to prevent wilting the lettuce.
Visual doneness cues
The ground beef should be browned and cooked through, with no pink remaining. You may also begin to smell the savory aroma of the spices mixing together.
Helpful cooking tips
- Always chop the veggies while the beef is cooking to save time.
- Use wide-mouth jars for easier access to the delicious layers inside.
- If you’re preparing for kids, let them customize their jars with their favorite toppings.
- To add a touch of flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Cheeseburger Salad-in-a-Jar chilled for a refreshing lunch or dinner. Pair it with a side of baked sweet potato fries or some homemade tortilla chips for crunch. You could also add avocado slices on top just before serving for an extra creamy taste.
How to store & freeze
These jars are perfect for storing in the fridge. They can last for about 4-5 days without the ingredients losing their integrity. If you’re meal prepping, it’s best not to add the lettuce until you’re ready to eat to keep it crisp.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked beef separately. Just remember that once you’ve included veggies and sauce, you shouldn’t freeze the jars, as the texture of the fresh ingredients may change.
If you have any perishable items like the homemade mayo or yogurt, refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, and reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
- If your dressing separates in the jar, give it a good shake before eating to recombine.
- If the beef feels dry, make sure to monitor cooking times, as overcooking can lead to dryness.
- For soggy lettuce, try adding a paper towel on top of the lettuce layer to absorb excess moisture in the jars.
Creative twists
- Want a spicy kick? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your burger sauce.
- For added crunch, include crushed crackers or crispy bacon bits right before eating.
- Try different cheese options—blue cheese or pepper jack can bring exciting new flavors.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some roasted corn or avocado slices for extra texture.
Common questions
Can I use different types of meat in Cheeseburger Salad-in-a-Jar?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well in this recipe, allowing for a tasty yet healthy twist.
How long can I keep it in the refrigerator?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, making it convenient for meal prepping on busy weekends.
Can I add more vegetables to it?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots to customize your Cheeseburger Salad to your liking.
Is this suitable for kids?
Yes! Kids often love the interactive aspect of layering their own jars, and you can adjust the flavors to suit their preferences, making it a fun meal for the whole family.
In conclusion, Cheeseburger Salad-in-a-Jar elegantly combines enticing flavors, crisp textures, and the convenience of meal prep. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the essence of a delicious cheeseburger in a fresh, healthy format that’s perfect for any occasion. Make it your own and enjoy this delightful dish!
Cheeseburger Salad-in-a-Jar
Ingredients
Method
- Heat your avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until nicely browned, about 8-10 minutes. Season with sea salt.
- Once the beef is browned, set it aside and allow it to cool.
- While the meat cools, prepare the remaining ingredients: dice the red onion, chop the lettuce, and dice the cherry tomatoes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the homemade mayo (or Greek yogurt), tomato puree, chili powder, onion powder, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Divide the sauce equally among the four wide-mouth mason jars, adding it to the bottom.
- Layer the cooked ground beef evenly into each jar followed by the diced onions, tomatoes, chopped pickles, shredded cheddar cheese, and finally, the lettuce.
- Seal the jars with lids and refrigerate.
- Enjoy this delicious meal prep idea all week long!