Keto Burger Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make!

What Is the Recipe for Keto Burger?

Who says you need a bun to enjoy a mouthwatering burger? A keto burger brings all the juicy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness you love, without the unnecessary carbs. 

Whether you’re grilling up a weekend feast or whipping up a quick dinner, this low-carb burger is easy to make and endlessly customizable. 

Pile on the cheese, crispy bacon, or creamy avocado, and you’ve got a protein-packed meal that keeps you satisfied.

Best of all? You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to nail this recipe. With a few simple ingredients and cooking tips, you’ll have a keto-friendly burger that’s just as delicious—if not better—than the classic version. 

Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!

Two keto burgers topped with lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion rings on a dark surface
Two keto burgers topped with lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion rings on a dark surface

Table of Contents:

What Is a Keto Burger?

A lettuce-wrapped burger topped with sliced avocado and diced tomatoes on parchment paper
A lettuce-wrapped burger topped with sliced avocado and diced tomatoes on parchment paper

A keto burger is everything you love about a classic burger minus the unnecessary carbs. 

Instead of a starchy bun, this burger keeps it simple, focusing on juicy, well-seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful toppings. 

It’s rich in protein, packed with healthy fats, and keeps you full without spiking your blood sugar.

This recipe brings out the best in a burger with a perfectly seasoned beef patty, a hint of Worcestershire sauce, and a juicy, grill-kissed finish. 

Want to take it up a notch? Load it up with crispy bacon, fresh avocado, caramelized onions, or a dollop of creamy mayo.

When it comes to buns, you’ve got options! 

Lettuce wraps keep things light and fresh, while keto-friendly buns offer a more traditional feel. Or, skip the bun entirely and serve your burger on a plate with all the fixings. 

However you stack it, this keto burger delivers serious flavor without the carb overload!

Ingredients To Prepare

Raw ground beef on parchment paper placed on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by spices and fresh vegetables
Raw ground beef on parchment paper placed on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by spices and fresh vegetables

To make the ultimate keto burger, you need quality ingredients that enhance flavor and keep things low-carb. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Ground beef: The star of the show! Go for 80/20 beef—it’s got just the right amount of fat to keep your patties juicy and packed with flavor. Nobody wants a dry burger, right?
  • Steak seasoning: Think of this as your burger’s secret weapon. It’s a perfect mix of spices that brings out the beef’s deep, savory taste without overpowering it.
  • Worcestershire sauce: A little goes a long way! This stuff adds a rich, umami punch with just the right hint of tanginess. It’s like a flavor boost that makes every bite better.
  • Salt and pepper: The ultimate duo. These basic seasonings do the heavy lifting by enhancing all the other flavors. A light sprinkle is all you need to bring everything together.
  • Onion: Want extra flavor? Caramelize thinly sliced onions for a touch of sweetness. Prefer a little crunch? Keep it raw. Either way, onions add that something extra that makes a burger feel complete.
  • Olive oil: The multitasker! It keeps your patties moist, helps the seasoning mix evenly, and works wonders for getting those onions beautifully golden and caramelized.

With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re on your way to making a keto burger that’s anything but boring.

Ingredient Measurement

Getting the right balance of ingredients is key to making a flavorful and juicy keto burger. Here’s the exact measurements to ensure every bite is seasoned to perfection:

  • 1 pound of ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon of steak seasoning 
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • A pinch of salt and pepper
  • 4 ounces of onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon of erythritol (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen tools:

  • Grill or stovetop skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Burger press (optional)
  • Spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Pan (for caramelized onions)
  • Tongs

How To Make Keto Burger

Two raw beef burger patties on parchment paper, placed on a round black slate with scattered coarse salt
Two raw beef burger patties on parchment paper, placed on a round black slate with scattered coarse salt

Making a keto burger is simple and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and the right seasonings, you can create a flavorful, juicy patty that fits your low carb diet. 

Here’s how to make the perfect keto burger.

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

  • Begin by preheating the grill and ensuring the grates are clean. 
  • Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking during cooking.

Step 2: Season and Shape the Patties

  • Break apart the ground beef in a mixing bowl. 
  • Drizzle with Worcestershire sauce and sprinkle with steak seasoning. 
  • If using, add a bit of olive oil for extra moisture. 
  • Gently combine the ingredients with your hands, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed. 
  • Divide the meat mixture into three equal portions, then shape them into balls. 
  • Flatten each ball into a patty, either by hand or with a burger press. Pressing a small indentation in the center of each patty helps prevent excessive puffing while grilling.

Step 3: Cook and Serve

  • Lightly season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper. 
  • Place them on the grill and cook to your preferred doneness, flipping once. For a juicy burger, consider leaving a slight pink center. 
  • Serve with your favorite toppings, keeping track of the carb content if necessary.
  • Optional for caramelized onions: Thinly slice the onions. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the onions and cook until they soften. Stir in ½ teaspoon of erythritol and continue cooking until they turn golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes.

Keto Burger Nutrition

Two cooked beef burger patties sizzling on a grill pan
Two cooked beef burger patties sizzling on a grill pan

A keto burger is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a well-balanced combination of protein and healthy fats while keeping carbs to a minimum. 

Unlike traditional burgers loaded with bread and sugary condiments, this version focuses on fueling your body with the right macronutrients to support ketosis. 

Here’s the nutrition breakdown per 1 patty:

  • Calories: 479 kcal 
  • Total Fats: 40g 
  • Net Carbs: 2g 
  • Protein: 26g 

With 479 nutrition calories per patty, it provides a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. 

The high fat content (40g) makes it perfect for fueling your body on a keto diet, helping you stay in ketosis while keeping hunger at bay. 

Since fat is the primary energy source on keto, this burger delivers exactly what you need to sustain energy levels throughout the day.

At just 2g of net carbs, this burger fits easily into any low-carb meal plan. 

Unlike fast-food burgers that come with high-carb buns and sugary sauces, this homemade version keeps things simple, clean, and keto-friendly. 

The 26g of protein helps maintain muscle mass, curb cravings, and support overall health.

For an even lower-carb meal, pair your burger with absolutely delicious toppings like creamy avocado, melted cheese, or crispy bacon. 

Swap out the traditional bun for lettuce wraps, portobello mushrooms, or a low-carb alternative to keep the meal light yet satisfying.

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Keto Burger

A lettuce-wrapped double bacon burger stacked with tomato slices and sauce on a wooden surface
A lettuce-wrapped double bacon burger stacked with tomato slices and sauce on a wooden surface

Making a keto burger that’s juicy, flavorful, and satisfying is easy with a few simple tips. These pointers will surely take your burger game to the next level:

  • Use High-Fat Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef to keep your burger juicy and flavorful. The extra fat ensures a tender patty that won’t dry out on the grill.
  • Don’t Over-Mix the Meat: Gently mix your ground beef with the seasonings. Overworking the meat will result in tough, dense burgers. Keep it light and fluffy for the best texture.
  • Add a Small Indentation in the Center: Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty before grilling. This trick helps the patties cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up like little meatballs.
  • Cook to the Right Temperature: For the juiciest burger, aim for medium rare to medium doneness. This keeps the patty tender and full of flavor. Use a meat thermometer—130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium rare—and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
  • Let the Burger Patties Rest: After cooking, let your burger patties rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices and gives you a more flavorful bite.
  • Get Creative with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with extra toppings! Add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a dollop of guacamole for extra flavor that complements the rich, savory beef.
  • Keto Burger Sauce: A great burger needs a great sauce! Skip the store-bought condiments loaded with sugar and make your own keto burger sauce.
  • Spice It Up with Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce can take your keto burger to the next level. Mix it into your patty or drizzle it on top!
  • Choose the Right Bun Alternative: Traditional buns are out, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip the “bread” entirely. Try a lettuce wrap, portobello mushrooms, or our own keto hamburger buns recipe to keep it low-carb but still satisfying.

With these tips, you’ll be able to make a keto burger that’s not only tasty but also perfectly suited to your low-carb lifestyle. 

Serving and Pairing Ideas

A cheeseburger with creamy sauce and caramelized onions served with a fresh arugula and orange salad on a black plate
A cheeseburger with creamy sauce and caramelized onions served with a fresh arugula and orange salad on a black plate

Looking to take your keto burger to the next level? Here are some fun and creative serving and pairing ideas that’ll complement your burger perfectly. 

Serving Ideas:

  • Lettuce-Wrapped Burger: Keep it low-carb and fresh by using large lettuce leaves to wrap your burger. It’s crunchy, refreshing, and perfect for a quick, light option.
  • Keto Burger Bowl: If you’re in the mood for something more filling, skip the bun and serve your burger in a bowl with a bed of cauliflower rice or leafy greens. Top it off with your favorite keto toppings.
  • Double-Patty Burger with a Fried Egg: Want something a little heartier? Go for a double-patty burger, and add a fried egg on top. It’s a satisfying, protein-packed twist that will keep you full longer!
  • Burger Skewers: For a fun and unique twist, you can turn your keto burger into skewers! Alternate pieces of cooked patty with veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions. Grill the skewers to perfection for a keto-friendly finger food experience.
  • Burger Salad: Make your burger even lighter by breaking it down into a burger salad! Chop your burger into bite-sized pieces and toss it with your favorite salad greens. Add pickles, tomatoes, cheese, and a creamy dressing like ranch or blue cheese to give it that full burger vibe without the carbs.
  • Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers: For a hearty option, stuff bell peppers with your seasoned ground beef mixture and bake them. Top with cheese and bake until golden and bubbly—just like a keto-friendly stuffed burger!

Pairing Ideas:

  • Zucchini Fries: These crispy, low-carb fries are a perfect sidekick to your burger.
  • Keto Fries: Made from rutabaga, this keto fries recipe pairs beautifully with the savory richness of a keto burger.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and flavorful, these roasted sprouts are a crunchy, savory pairing that complements the richness of the burger.
  • Avocado Salad: Cool, creamy avocado with a sprinkle of lime juice and a pinch of salt makes for a refreshing side.
  • Crispy Asparagus: Air fryer asparagus with olive oil and lemon zest makes a simple, yet flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with your keto burger.
  • Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed cauliflower, made with butter and cream cheese, is a fantastic low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes and will perfectly complement the richness of the burger.
  • Baked Broccoli: A great alternative to fries, roasted broccoli with a little parmesan and garlic offers a crunchy texture to contrast the burger’s softness.
  • Keto-Friendly Milkshake: Craving something sweet? Blend up a keto milkshake made with almond milk, heavy cream, and a dash of vanilla. It’s the ultimate treat! 
  • Kombucha: If you’re looking for something tangy and slightly fizzy, a glass of kombucha can be a great option. It’s low-carb and offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of your burger.
  • Iced Coffee with Heavy Cream: For a more indulgent drink, try iced coffee with a splash of heavy cream. It’s a rich, smooth drink that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of a keto burger.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing, low-carb drink that cuts through the richness of the burger, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

With these fun and delicious serving and pairing ideas, you can easily turn your keto burger into a full meal that’s just as satisfying as it is flavorful. 

How To Store Keto Burger

A keto double beef burger stacked with avocado slices, chopped tomatoes, and shredded lettuce on a white plate
A keto double beef burger stacked with avocado slices, chopped tomatoes, and shredded lettuce on a white plate

Storing your keto burger properly helps maintain its freshness and flavor. Here’s how to keep your keto burger in top shape:

  • Cool Before Storing: Allow the patties to cool to room temperature to avoid condensation and sogginess.
  • Refrigeration: Place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap/aluminum foil. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the patties individually in foil or parchment paper, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
  • Defrosting: For frozen patties, defrost in the fridge overnight or use the microwave for quicker defrosting (without overheating).
  • Reheating: Avoid the microwave to preserve juiciness. Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat or on the grill for a couple of minutes to get that fresh-grilled taste.

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

Looking for more low-carb meal ideas? Try these:

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Keep a Keto Burger Juicy?

To keep your keto burger juicy, avoid overcooking. Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain moisture. You can also add a little olive oil to the mix for extra juiciness.

What Kind of Meat Is Best for a Keto Burger?

For a keto burger, ground beef with a higher fat content, like 80/20 or 85/15, is ideal. The fat adds flavor, moisture, and helps keep the burger juicy. You can also use ground turkey or lamb for variety.

How Do I Cook a Keto Burger Without a Grill?

Cooking a keto burger without a grill is easy and still delivers a juicy, flavorful patty. Pan fry it in a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil, cooking each side for a few minutes until it reaches your preferred doneness.

Final Thoughts

In this post, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about making a keto burger that’s flavorful, satisfying, and low-carb. 

From choosing the right ingredients like high-fat ground beef to creative toppings and bun options, you’ve got all the tips and tricks to create a burger that fits your keto lifestyle perfectly. 

We’ve also shared ways to cook your burger without a grill and some ideas for side dishes and drinks to pair it with, making your meal even more enjoyable.

With just a few simple steps and some high-quality ingredients, you can make a keto burger that’s both delicious and filling. 

Eating keto doesn’t mean giving up delicious burgers, this keto-friendly recipe lets you enjoy a juicy, flavorful patty while keeping carbs low and satisfaction high.

Looking for more keto meal inspiration? Visit our website for even more tasty, low-carb ideas to help you stay on course!