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Burger Salad (With Burger Leftovers or From Scratch)

Author: Laura Bais
This Burger Salad is a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy burger vibes without the bun, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual summer lunch. Try it for your next meal—it’s easy, delicious, and a great way to use up leftovers or impress your friends with a healthier twist!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 3 servings

Equipment

  • 1 electric grill (or grill pan)
  • 2 mixing bowl
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Sharp Knife

Ingredients
  

For the Patties:

  • 1.3 lbs ground beef neck for classic burgers, or thigh for a leaner option
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Garlic powder to taste

For the Dressing:

  • 6 tbsp heavy cream
  • 3 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tsp mustard
  • 8 small dill pickles finely chopped
  • 1/3 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

For the Salad:

  • 1/2 iceberg lettuce chopped into strips
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 9 oz cherry tomatoes halved
  • 5-6 slices thin-cut bacon

Instructions
 

  • Make the dressing: In a small bowl, mix heavy cream, ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate to chill while you prep the rest.
  • Prepare the patties: If using leftovers, reheat 5-6 patties in a microwave or skillet until warm. If making fresh, mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then form into 5-6 equal patties (so each salad can have 1-2 patties, depending on preference).
  • Grill method (if using fresh patties): Preheat a grill (like Tefal OptiGrill 4u1) and select the burger program. Once heated, place patties on the grill and cook until done (I prefer “well done,” but you can remove earlier for medium). Wipe the grill with a paper towel, then switch to manual medium heat. Lay bacon slices on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 1-1.5 minutes until crispy. Let bacon cool, then chop into small pieces.
  • Skillet method (if using fresh patties): Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook 3-4 minutes per side for medium, or 5-6 minutes per side for well done. Remove patties and set aside. In the same skillet, cook bacon slices for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy. Let cool, then chop into small pieces.
  • Prep the veggies: Slice lettuce and red onion into thin strips. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
  • Assemble the salad: Divide lettuce, onions, and tomatoes among 3 plates. Top each with 1-2 patties and sprinkle with chopped bacon. Drizzle with chilled dressing.
  • Serve and enjoy: Dig in immediately for the freshest flavors! If using a grill with removable plates, pop them in the dishwasher for easy cleanup.

Notes

If using leftover patties, this recipe comes together in about 15 minutes.
Adjust the number of patties per salad based on how hungry you are!
For a spicier dressing, add a dash of hot sauce or chili powder.
Keyword burger salad, healthy burger, leftover burger, leftover patties