Looking for a way to enjoy a juicy, flavorful burger without the bun? The lettuce wrap burger is your answer. It’s the go to choice for anyone wanting something lighter, lower in carbs, or gluten free without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
Whether you’re following a keto diet, cutting carbs, or just craving a fresh, crisp twist on the classic burger, this version delivers everything you love about a traditional burger: a savory beef patty, melted cheese, sauce, and crunchy toppings, all wrapped in cool, crisp lettuce.
Plus, with a few expert tips from Chef Lucas Benette, you’ll learn how to build a wrap that holds together, looks amazing, and satisfies with every bite. Let’s start by understanding what makes the lettuce wrap burger such a hit.
What Is a Lettuce Wrap Burger?
A lettuce wrap burger is a burger where the usual bread bun is swapped out for large, fresh lettuce leaves. The result? A lighter, low carb, and gluten free alternative that still delivers big on flavor and texture.
What Makes It Special:
- Crisp and refreshing The lettuce adds crunch and keeps things light.
- Low in carbs Perfect for keto, paleo, or gluten free diets.
- Customizable Add your favorite sauces, toppings, or cheeses.
- No guilt, all flavor You won’t miss the bun when it tastes this good.
And it’s not just for the health conscious. Many burger fans love the cleaner, crunchier bite a lettuce wrap brings to the table.
Ingredients for the Ultimate Lettuce Wrap Burger
The beauty of a lettuce wrap burger is that it’s easy to make and totally customizable. Below is a classic version, but you can tweak the protein, sauces, and toppings to your taste.
For the Burger Patties (Makes 4 servings)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
For the Wrap & Assembly
- 1 large head of iceberg or butter lettuce
- 4 slices cheddar, Swiss, or provolone cheese
- 1 tomato, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 dill pickle, sliced
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- 4 tsp mustard (or your favorite burger sauce)
- Optional: avocado, bacon, or hot sauce
Chef Lucas Benette’s Secrets for Burger Wrap Success
Chef Lucas Benette believes building a great lettuce wrap burger is all about structure, layering, and flavor balance. Here’s how he nails it every time:
1. Pick the Right Lettuce
Use large, flexible leaves like:
- Iceberg for crispness
- Butter lettuce for a soft, bendable wrap
- Romaine as a firmer, boat style holder
Lucas recommends overlapping 2–3 leaves to create a sturdy base that won’t tear.
2. Keep the Patties Thin
Thinner patties cook faster and are easier to wrap. Aim for ¼ to ⅓ inch thickness, and keep them just wide enough to match your lettuce.
3. Chill the Lettuce
Wash, dry, and chill your lettuce before using. Cold leaves give a crisp bite and hold their shape better when wrapping.
4. Layer Smart
Here’s Lucas’s perfect build order:
- Lettuce base
- Sauce to keep things juicy
- Cheese melted patty
- Toppings like tomato, pickle, onion
- More sauce if needed
- Wrap tightly with another layer of lettuce or parchment paper
“Wrap like a burrito and tuck the ends in that’s the trick to no mess,” Lucas says.
How to Make a Lettuce Wrap Burger (Step by Step)
Now that you have your ingredients and Chef Lucas’s tips, here’s how to build the perfect lettuce wrap burger at home crispy, juicy, and satisfying from the first bite to the last.
Step 1: Cook the Burger Patties
- In a bowl, season ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into thin, wide patties.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium high heat.
- Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your liking.
- Add cheese slices during the final minute and cover to melt. Set patties aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Lettuce Wrap Base
- Carefully remove large lettuce leaves, wash and pat dry.
- Overlap 2–3 leaves to form a wide, sturdy wrap.
- Lay the leaves on a piece of parchment paper or foil for easy wrapping.
Step 3: Assemble the Burger
- Spread mayo or preferred sauce onto the lettuce.
- Add the cheeseburger patty, followed by tomato, onion, pickles, and other toppings.
- Drizzle more sauce if desired.
- Fold the lettuce up and over the burger like a burrito or secure with parchment.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Cut in half if you like, or wrap in paper for a mess free handheld bite. Pair with baked veggie fries, pickles, or a light salad for a healthy, crave worthy meal.
Nutrition Facts Per Burger
(Based on one lettuce wrap burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sauce)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Total Fat | 27g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
Tip: Swap beef for ground turkey or plant based patties to lighten it up even more.
FAQs About Lettuce Wrap Burgers
1. Are lettuce wrap burgers healthy?
Yes, lettuce wrap burgers are a healthy alternative to traditional burgers. By swapping the bun for lettuce, you reduce refined carbs and overall calories while still enjoying a protein rich, satisfying meal. They’re also a great choice for keto, low carb, gluten free, and paleo diets.
2. What is the best lettuce to wrap burgers with?
The best lettuce options are:
- Iceberg lettuce crisp and refreshing with large, sturdy leaves
- Butter lettuce (Boston or Bibb) soft, flexible, and easy to fold
- Romaine lettuce firm and elongated, great for “boat style” burgers
Make sure the leaves are fresh, dry, and overlap them for extra strength when wrapping.
3. What toppings go on a lettuce wrap burger?
Lettuce wrap burgers can be loaded up just like any regular burger. Popular toppings include:
- Sliced tomato
- Onions (raw or grilled)
- Pickles or avocado
- Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone)
- Sauces like mayo, mustard, hot sauce, or special sauce
You can also add bacon, mushrooms, or even fried eggs for extra flavor and texture.
4. What do you call a hamburger wrapped in lettuce?
It’s commonly called a lettuce wrap burger, but some also refer to it as a bunless burger, keto burger, or protein style burger (a term popularized by In N Out). Whatever the name, it’s a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy your burger with fewer carbs.
Final Thoughts on Going Bun Free with Style
A lettuce wrap burger is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean flavorless food. With juicy patties, fresh toppings, and crisp lettuce replacing the bun, it’s a satisfying, crave worthy alternative to the classic burger.
Thanks to Chef Lucas Benette’s expert techniques, you now know how to build a lettuce wrap burger that holds together and tastes amazing whether you’re grilling on the weekend or keeping it clean on a weeknight.
So skip the bun but keep the flavor. Serve with crisp pickles, a chilled drink, and enjoy a low carb meal that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
