Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 burger

Calories: 142 • Total Fat: 5g • Total Carbohydrate: 4g (Fiber: 1g • Sugars: 2g) • Protein: 21g • Vitamin D (9%) •  Iron (14%) 

Nutritional Highlights

High Protein • Low Carb • Low Sugar • Gluten-Free • Dairy-Free • Paleo • Good for Strong Bones and Teeth • Rich in Iron

I have to admit, red meat is not my favorite. I’d rather a perfectly cooked piece of fish than a juicy steak any day, but every so often the Midwestern girl in me wants a classic American burger. When I recently found 96% Extra Lean Ground Beef at the grocery store I knew a burger recipe was a must. To make these burgers even better, I used mushrooms in place of some of the beef to add bulk and a hefty dose of Vitamin D. Plus, the mushrooms keep the burgers super juicy while adding this incredible umami flavor that, in my opinion, puts these burgers on par with any famous steakhouse burger.

These burgers are an excellent balance of protein and fat. I suggest eating them in a lettuce wrap with side of Cinnamon Spiced Sweet Potato and Carrot Fries for some healthy carbohydrates and some roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus to keep your blood sugar stable and increase your metabolism. If you prefer to have the burgers with a bun, choose one that is whole grain with little to no added sugar and very few ingredients, omit the fries, and serve with some roasted or steamed veggies.

Classic American Beef Burgers

Servings: 4

INGREDIENTS

• 3/4 lb (12 oz) 96% extra lean ground beef* (I use Trader Joe’s brand)
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup onion, finely diced
• 1 egg
• dash of salt and pepper
• cooking spray
• lettuce, onion and tomato, for toppings if desired
• grill or grill pan

METHOd

1. Finely chop the mushrooms, parsley, and onion by hand or with a mini food chopper. You want them to be chopped very small so they blend in with the ground beef. If you are using a mini food chopper, be extremely careful to not over chop or the mixture will become too wet and the burgers won’t be able to be formed into patties.
2. Transfer to a bowl and add beef, minced garlic, Worcestershire, egg, salt and pepper. Combine by hand until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Liberally spray a grill or grill pan with cooking spray.
4. Grill each burger for 10-12 minutes (about 5-6 minutes per side) or until desired doneness. (10-12 minutes is about medium doneness).
5. Top with desired toppings and serve in a lettuce wrap or on a bun.

*If you can’t find 96% Extra Lean Ground Beef, opt for at least 93% lean but know the burgers will be slightly higher in calories and fat.