Tomato Bun Burger, a juicy and refreshing twist on a traditional burger that swaps out the bread for thick, ripe tomato “buns.” It’s low-carb, gluten-free, and perfect for summer grilling or a light, satisfying lunch or dinner.
Tomato Bun Burger Recipe
Servings: 2 (double for more)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
1/2 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Tomato Buns:
2 large, firm tomatoes (beefsteak or heirloom work best)
Salt, to taste
Optional Toppings:
2 leaves romaine or butter lettuce
2 slices cooked bacon
2 slices cheddar or provolone cheese
1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 small avocado, sliced
Pickles or jalapeños, as desired
Ketchup, mustard, mayo, or aioli
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tomatoes
Slice each large tomato horizontally into 3 thick slices (about 1/2–3/4 inch thick).
Reserve the top and bottom slices to use as the “buns” and gently pat dry with paper towels.
Lightly salt them and set on paper towels to drain excess moisture while you cook the burgers.
2. Make and Cook the Patties
In a medium bowl, mix ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Divide into 2 equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than your tomato slices (they shrink a bit when cooked).
Grill or pan-sear the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side (or until cooked to your preferred doneness).
In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese, cover with a lid to melt if needed.
3. Assemble the Tomato Bun Burgers
Place one tomato slice on a plate or burger tray. Top with a lettuce leaf, the hot burger patty with melted cheese, and any desired toppings (bacon, onion, avocado, etc.).
Finish with the second tomato slice on top.
Secure with a long toothpick or skewer to help hold everything in place.
Tips for Success
Choose Firm Tomatoes: Softer or overripe tomatoes won’t hold up to the weight of the burger.
Drain Well: Let tomato slices rest on paper towels to reduce sogginess.
Make It Keto: Skip sauces with added sugars and opt for sugar-free ketchup or homemade aioli.
Spicy Variation: Add sriracha mayo, pepper jack cheese, or jalapeños for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
A side of sweet potato fries or zucchini chips
A chilled cucumber salad or coleslaw
Sparkling water with lemon or a crisp lager
