Ingredients

For the Burgers:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tsp steak seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 bouillon cube (crumbled)
• 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Zucchini Noodles:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp hot sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red chili pepper flakes
• 3 medium zucchinis (spiralized into noodles)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Burger Patties
   • In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, steak seasoning, red chili pepper flakes, black pepper, bouillon cube, garlic, and parsley. Mix gently until just combined.
   • Divide the beef into 8 portions. Shape half into patties, place a cheese slice on top of each, then cover with another patty, sealing the edges.
2. Cook the Burgers
   • Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side or until your preferred doneness, basting occasionally with the melted butter and juices. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Zucchini Noodles
   • In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic, lemon juice, hot sauce, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Stir until fragrant (about 1 minute).
   • Add the zucchini noodles and toss to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender. If the zucchini releases excess water, allow the cooking juices to reduce for 1 minute.
4. Combine and Serve
   • Push the zucchini noodles to one side of the skillet and return the burger patties to the pan to reheat for 1-2 minutes.
   • Serve the burgers with the zucchini noodles on the side, garnished with fresh parsley and a slice of lemon for extra brightness.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 1 serving (1 burger + zucchini noodles)
• Calories: 475 kcal
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg
• Sodium: 640 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g

This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy and flavorful low-carb dinner. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheated in a skillet. Enjoy!

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Cheesy Garlic Burgers with Lemon Butter Zucchini Noodles shine for several reasons:

• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: With only 7 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish is ideal for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
• One-Pan Convenience: Both the burgers and zucchini noodles are prepared in a single skillet, making cleanup quick and hassle-free.
• Flavor Explosion: The garlic-infused beef patties, melty cheese, and lemon butter zucchini noodles create layers of bold, satisfying flavors.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber-rich zucchini, this dish offers a balanced, nourishing meal without feeling heavy.
• Customizable: This recipe is highly adaptable—you can experiment with different cheeses, spices, or even swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, this recipe delivers on flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation.

Nutritional Highlights

Cheesy Garlic Burgers with Lemon Butter Zucchini Noodles are not just tasty—they’re also packed with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle:

• High in Protein: Each serving provides 32 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
• Low in Carbs: With just 7 grams of carbs per serving, this dish fits seamlessly into low-carb and keto diets.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: The butter and cheese contribute healthy fats that provide energy and keep you feeling full longer.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Zucchini is a great source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, while garlic adds immune-boosting benefits.

This recipe balances macronutrients and micronutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any meal plan.

Flavor and Texture: A Perfect Pairing

This dish excels in its combination of flavors and textures:

• Juicy Burgers: The beef patties are seasoned with garlic, parsley, and spices, creating a savory and aromatic base. The melted cheese inside the patties adds a delightful, gooey surprise.
• Bright and Tangy Zucchini Noodles: Tossed in a lemon butter sauce with a hint of spice from red chili flakes, the zucchini noodles provide a refreshing counterbalance to the rich burgers.
• Creamy and Buttery Finish: The butter used in both the burgers and the zucchini sauce ties the dish together, creating a luxurious mouthfeel.

The contrast between the hearty burgers and the light, citrusy noodles makes each bite exciting and satisfying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Cheesy Garlic Burgers with Lemon Butter Zucchini Noodles are versatile enough to suit a variety of occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want a healthy, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Meal Prep: This recipe reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping. Pack leftovers for a quick and nutritious lunch or dinner.
• Entertaining: With its bold flavors and elegant presentation, this dish is an impressive option for hosting friends or family.
• Diet-Friendly: Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, this recipe is a delicious option that meets your nutritional goals.

Its combination of simplicity, flavor, and health benefits makes it a reliable choice for almost any mealtime scenario.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some ideas for tailoring it to your preferences:

• Meat Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Choices: Use your favorite cheese—cheddar, Gouda, Swiss, or blue cheese all work beautifully.
• Spice Level: Adjust the red chili pepper flakes or hot sauce to your desired level of spiciness, or omit them for a milder dish.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate more vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach into the zucchini noodles for added texture and nutrients.
• Low-Calorie Alternative: Replace some or all of the butter with olive oil or avocado oil for a lighter version of the dish.

These customizations allow you to make the recipe your own while keeping its essence intact.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cheesy Garlic Burgers with Lemon Butter Zucchini Noodles turn out perfectly, follow these tips:

• Don’t Overwork the Meat: Mix the ground beef just until combined to keep the patties tender and juicy.
• Use Fresh Zucchini: Spiralize your zucchini just before cooking to prevent it from becoming too watery.
• Cook Zucchini Noodles Quickly: Overcooking zucchini noodles can make them soggy. Toss them in the sauce for just 2–3 minutes to maintain their texture.
• Let the Cheese Melt: Allow the cheese to fully melt inside the burger patties for a gooey, flavorful center.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the lemon butter sauce and adjust the seasoning before tossing in the zucchini noodles.

These tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time.

Pairing Suggestions

While this dish is complete on its own, you can enhance the meal with a few complementary sides:

• Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich burgers and buttery noodles.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, bell peppers, or cauliflower for additional texture and flavor.
• Keto Bread Rolls: Add a side of low-carb bread or rolls to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing beverage like sparkling water infused with lemon slices complements the dish’s bright flavors.

These sides and drinks round out the meal, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigeration: Store the burgers and zucchini noodles in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• Reheating: Reheat the burgers in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their juiciness. For the zucchini noodles, warm them gently in a pan to prevent overcooking.
• Freezing: While the zucchini noodles are best enjoyed fresh, the burger patties can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Proper storage and reheating ensure the dish maintains its flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Burgers with Lemon Butter Zucchini Noodles are a delightful fusion of hearty and fresh flavors, offering the perfect balance of indulgence and health-conscious eating. The juicy, cheesy burgers paired with bright, buttery zucchini noodles make for a satisfying low-carb dinner that feels anything but restrictive. Whether you’re following a keto diet, looking for a gluten-free option, or simply craving a flavorful, protein-packed meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts.