Paleo Bacon-Chile Burgers With Guacamole and Fresh Salsa Recipe

Just because you're craving a burger doesn't mean you have to waste more than 1,000 calories on a basic sit-down restaurant or fast food order! While some popular chains do sell burgers with more than 1,000 calories, you can actually enjoy a delicious burger with bacon (yes, bacon!) for a mere 402 calories. By simply adding some guacamole and fresh salsa, you'll have a flavorful patty that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

The best part? This meal can be enjoyed on a paleo diet! For those who are paleo, you could always try using a vegetable as a bun (like eggplant or portobello mushrooms). Here, we used butter lettuce leaves. However, if you're looking to add a burger bun, try a whole wheat pita or wrap instead. We have some smart burger bun swaps that can help you decide what "bun" you would like to use.

Adding a slice of cheese will certainly help with satiety on a traditional burger, but for those who are paleo, guacamole is a great alternative. Not only is avocado a great appetite suppressant, but it is the perfect food for weight loss. So spoon on some delicious guacamole and fresh salsa on your burger—your stomach will thank you!

Nutrition: 402 calories, 15 g fat (8 g saturated), 840 mg sodium, 4 g sugar, 32 g protein, 7 g fiber

Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

6 slices no-sugar-added bacon
1 pound lean ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño chili pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1⁄2 tsp salt, divided
1⁄4 tsp pepper
1 medium ripe avocado
1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
1⁄2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
2 Tbsp chopped green onions
4 butter lettuce leaves
1 cup fresh salsa or pico de gallo

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil. Arrange bacon slices in a single layer on foil. Bake 10 to 20 minutes or until crisp. Drain bacon on paper towels and let cool. Crumble bacon.
2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine beef, garlic, jalapeño, 1⁄4 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Add bacon pieces; mix gently and form into 4 patties.
3. Preheat grill to medium. Grill burgers 12 to 16 minutes or until done (160°F), turning once.
4. While burgers are grilling, mash together the avocado, lime juice, remaining 1⁄4 teaspoon salt, cilantro, and green onions.
5. Serve burgers in lettuce leaves topped with guacamole and fresh salsa.

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