Pan-Seared Burger with Mixed Greens and Balsamic Vinaigrette

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-12 · Updated 2026-05-12

A juicy pan-seared beef burger paired with a fresh mixed green salad tossed in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal. This American-inspired beef recipe, ready in about 18 minutes, pairs ground beef, salt, black pepper for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 550 calories and feeds 1, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 8 oz ground beef
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups mixed salad greens
• 1/2 cup, halved cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 medium, sliced cucumber
• 1/4 small, thinly sliced red onion
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, season 8 oz ground beef with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Form into a 4-inch patty, pressing gently for even thickness.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the patty and cook for 4 minutes on the first side without moving until a brown crust forms.
3. Step 3: Flip the burger and cook an additional 3 minutes for medium doneness or longer to desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for 3 minutes.
4. Step 4: While the burger cooks, combine 4 cups mixed salad greens, 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1/2 sliced cucumber, and 1/4 thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tsp honey until emulsified.
6. Step 6: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Serve the rested burger alongside the dressed salad.