Cheeseburger Cabbage Wraps

By Tyla | Last modified on Feb 17, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Cheeseburger cabbage wraps offer a delicious twist on traditional burgers by replacing buns with crisp, refreshing leaves of lettuce. This low-carb option combines juicy, grilled beef patties with sweet caramelized onions and tangy secret sauce, creating a perfectly balanced dish that is both satisfying and fresh.

Whether you’re looking for a paleo-friendly meal or simply want to enjoy a cheeseburger without the extra carbs, these wraps deliver all the beloved flavors with a healthy and colorful presentation. They’re perfect for casual dinners or anytime you want a hearty yet light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low-carb and gluten-free alternative to classic cheeseburgers using crisp green leaf lettuce instead of buns.
Sweet, slow-cooked caramelized onions add depth and natural sweetness to every bite.
Homemade tangy secret sauce enhances the flavors with a perfect balance of creamy and zesty.
Quick to prepare and customizable with optional cheese or dairy-free variations.

Ingredients

Yellow Onions: Two medium-sized onions thinly sliced or diced, essential for slow caramelizing to create rich, sweet flavors.
Avocado or Olive Oil: One tablespoon to gently cook onions and prevent sticking, while adding subtle richness and healthy fats.
Sea Salt: To taste; enhances the natural sweetness of onions and seasons the burger patties perfectly.
Ground Beef: One pound of quality ground beef formed into four patties, providing juicy, meaty bases with a thick, satisfying texture.
Cheddar Cheese Slices: Four slices, preferably naturally colored yellow cheddar, add creamy, melty richness (omit for dairy-free or paleo).
Green Leaf Lettuce Leaves: Eight large washed and dried leaves to use as crisp, sturdy wraps that replace traditional burger buns.
Tomatoes: Two medium tomatoes sliced approximately 10 ounces, adding fresh juiciness and vibrant color to each wrap.
Dill Pickles: Four thinly sliced for a tangy crunch that balances the savory flavors.
Yellow Mustard: Two teaspoons to spread thinly on the burger patties, introducing a sharp, tangy kick underneath the cheese.
Mayonnaise: A quarter cup of avocado oil mayonnaise for a creamy base in the secret sauce, providing smooth texture.
Ketchup: Two tablespoons of sugar-free ketchup contribute mild sweetness and tomato flavor for the sauce.
Pickle Relish: One tablespoon or minced dill pickle enhances the secret sauce with bursts of tartness and crunch.
White Wine Vinegar: Half a teaspoon adds acidity to brighten and balance the secret sauce flavors.
Optional Sweetener: Maple syrup or coconut aminos can be added to taste for a touch of natural sweetness in the secret sauce.

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: Heat a large 10-inch pan over medium heat and add the tablespoon of avocado or olive oil. Add the diced or sliced yellow onions and cook slowly over medium or medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until the onions soften and turn golden brown. This process takes about 20 to 30 minutes and develops a deep, sweet flavor that complements the savory beef patties.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or griddle to a steady medium temperature of 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining consistent heat ensures even cooking of the burgers, achieving a juicy interior with a nicely seared exterior.
Prepare the Burger Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about three-quarters of an inch thick. Spread half a teaspoon of yellow mustard on one side of each patty, which will be the side that grills first. This adds a subtle tangy layer beneath the meat’s crust.
Grill the Burgers: Place the patties mustard-side down on the hot grill. Cook for about 6 to 10 minutes per side depending on your preferred doneness. Flip once, and halfway through the flip side’s cooking time, add cheddar cheese slices if using. Allow the cheese to melt beautifully over the meat before removing the patties from the grill.
Assemble the Wraps: Lay green leaf lettuce leaves or iceberg lettuce as the base for your wraps. Place a grilled burger patty on each leaf, then add caramelized onions, sliced tomatoes, and dill pickles. Finally, drizzle the secret sauce generously on top for a creamy, flavorful finish that ties all elements together.
Prepare the Secret Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, pickle relish or minced dill pickles, and white wine vinegar. Mix well until smooth. Taste and add optional maple syrup or coconut aminos if you prefer a sweeter sauce. This homemade condiment enhances the wraps with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet note.

You Must Know

Using naturally colored yellow cheddar avoids artificial dyes, keeping your burger cleaner and healthier.
Caramelizing onions requires patience but is key to unlocking their natural sweetness and depth.
The secret sauce can be adjusted for sweetness or tanginess to suit your taste preferences.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cooked patties and caramelized onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the secret sauce refrigerated as well. Lettuce leaves should be prepared fresh to maintain crispness and avoid sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cheeseburger cabbage wraps with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal. Pair with a cold beverage like iced tea or sparkling water with lemon to refresh the palate.

Professional Tips

Choose ground beef with about 20% fat content for juicy, flavorful patties that don’t dry out on the grill.
For perfectly caramelized onions, keep the heat low and be patient; stirring occasionally prevents burning.
To customize, swap cheddar for dairy-free cheese or omit it for a paleo-friendly option without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lettuce for the wraps?: Yes, green leaf lettuce is preferred for its size and pliability, but iceberg or butter lettuce also work well as sturdy alternatives.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?: Absolutely. Simply omit the cheddar cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the dish dairy-free and paleo-friendly.
How long do the caramelized onions keep?: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, caramelized onions will keep well for up to 5 days and can be reheated or used cold.
Can I prepare the secret sauce in advance?: Yes, the secret sauce can be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld, stored covered in the refrigerator.
What is the best ground beef to use for juicy patties?: Ground beef with approximately 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal for juicy, flavorful burgers that hold together well on the grill.
Can I grill the patties indoors?: Yes, use a stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet to achieve a good sear indoors if an outdoor grill is not available.
Is this recipe suitable for paleo diets?: Yes, by omitting cheese and using sugar-free ketchup, this dish fits paleo dietary guidelines while offering a wholesome meal.