Indulge in the guilt-free comfort of a *Heart-Healthy Classic Beef Cheeseburger*, where flavor meets mindful eating. This nutritious twist on the beloved classic features juicy patties made with lean ground beef, seasoned to perfection and cooked to maintain their natural tenderness. Melted reduced-fat cheddar adds a satisfying creaminess without the extra calories, while crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and tangy red onion rings bring layers of fresh texture and vibrant flavor to every bite. Served on toasted whole-grain buns and delicately flavored with Dijon mustard, this burger is a wholesome yet indulgent treat. With just 25 minutes of preparation and cooking time, this heart-friendly recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or relaxed gatherings. Pair it with a side of mixed greens or roasted sweet potato fries for a balanced, delicious meal the whole family will love! Keywords: heart-healthy cheeseburger recipe, lean beef burger, reduced fat, quick healthy dinner, whole-grain buns.
Preheat your grill or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
In a large bowl, gently mix the lean ground beef with the black pepper and salt until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain tenderness.
Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, lightly pressing them in the center to prevent puffing during cooking.
Lightly brush the grill or skillet with olive oil.
Place the patties onto the grill or skillet, and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring they are cooked through while remaining juicy.
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of reduced-fat cheddar cheese on each patty and cover them with a lid to melt the cheese slightly.
Meanwhile, slice the tomato into even rounds and the red onion into thin rings.
Lightly toast the whole-grain buns on the grill or in the oven for about 1-2 minutes until warm and slightly crispy.
To assemble the burgers, spread 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a lettuce leaf.
Place a beef patty with melted cheese on top of the lettuce, then add a tomato slice and a few onion rings.
Finish by placing the top half of the bun on the onion rings. Serve immediately, accompanied by a healthy side like a mixed greens salad or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Calories |
2162 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 92.9 g | 119% | |
| Saturated Fat | 31.9 g | 160% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 411 mg | 137% | |
| Sodium | 4429 mg | 193% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 171.9 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.1 g | 72% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.3 g | ||
| Protein | 171.8 g | 344% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.8 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1299 mg | 100% | |
| Iron | 21.0 mg | 117% | |
| Potassium | 2564 mg | 55% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.