High-Protein Cheeseburger Cauliflower Rice Skillet

May 16, 2025

2

Published: Apr 29, 2025 by Cathy Chenard · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This high-protein cheeseburger cauliflower rice skillet is a delicious, low-carb dinner packed with classic burger flavor and done in 25 minutes!

High protein cheeseburger skillet topped with melted cheese over crumbled beef and cauliflower rice

Forget the bun! This cheeseburger skillet has all the cheesy, juicy beef, tomato and pickle flavor you love in a regular cheeseburger, just without the bread. It’s hearty and delicious, with every bite full of classic cheeseburger flavor.

This cheeseburger cauliflower skillet is a breeze to make, too. You only need 8 ingredients and one pan, and dinner’s ready in about 25 minutes. It’s great for busy nights when you don’t have a lot of time but still want something that’s comforting and satisfying.

And with this cheeseburger skillet, you’ll sneak in extra fiber and veggies thanks to the cauliflower rice and tomatoes. It’s an easy high-protein, low-carb meal that will leave you full and happy!

Key Ingredients

Ground beef: We use lean ground beef (like 90% lean beef), so the dish is high in protein and not too greasy.

Chopped onion: Adds a little sweetness and depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder instead.

Cauliflower rice: This replaces the bun and adds fiber while keeping it low-carb. Fresh or frozen cauliflower rice both work.

No sugar added ketchup: Gives it that classic cheeseburger flavor without the extra sugar.

Yellow mustard: Adds a sharp, zesty flavor — a must!

Chopped dill pickles: Pickles add a salty crunch and help make the dish!

Grape tomatoes: Add a burst of freshness and another must!

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top to bring everything together. We use a shredded Colby Jack, which is just as delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a ½ tablespoon olive oil. When hot, stir in ground beef and chopped onion and break up the beef as it cooks. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any extra grease and set aside on separate plate.

STEP 2: In the same pan, cook the cauliflower rice for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly golden and most of the moisture has evaporated. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt.

STEP 3: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, and grape tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another minute or two so everything gets heated through.

STEP 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for a few minutes, until cheese is melted. Or, cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

Adding in rest of cheeseburger ingredients

STEP 5: Spoon it onto plates and enjoy while it’s hot!

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through until it’s hot.

More Cauliflower Rice Recipes

If you try this recipe, we would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, rate it, and tag @lowcarbsimplified on your photo of this recipe on Instagram or Facebook. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do!

Recipe