Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe
Introduction
The Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious, comforting dish that brings the flavors of a classic burger into a hearty, easy-to-eat bowl. With crispy potatoes, caramelized onions, seasoned beef, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean beef for a healthier option)
- 3 medium Red Potatoes (can substitute with brown rice)
- 1 cup Onions (caramelized for added depth)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or pepper jack recommended)
- 1/2 cup Mayo (adjust for desired creaminess)
- 2 tbsp Ketchup (use low-sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon is a great choice)
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup Pickles (adds crunch)
- 1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens work)
Instructions
- Step 1: Dice the red potatoes and toss them with olive oil and your preferred seasoning. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they are crispy and golden.
- Step 2: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown.
- Step 3: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Smash it down with a spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper, until the beef is fully cooked and browned.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for your preferred creaminess and spice level.
- Step 5: To assemble the bowls, start with a base of crispy potatoes. Layer the smashed beef, caramelized onions, and shredded cheese on top. Drizzle the prepared sauce over everything, then finish with pickles and lettuce as desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a gluten-free option, skip the ketchup or use a certified gluten-free brand.
- Substitute brown rice or quinoa for potatoes if you prefer a grain base.
- Add sliced avocado or tomatoes to enhance freshness and texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick or Colby Jack for a milder flavor.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to control the heat level according to your taste.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. To keep the bowl fresh, consider adding lettuce and pickles just before serving rather than storing them with the other ingredients.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cook extra caramelized onions and mushrooms for a similar savory flavor and texture.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. Potatoes, onions, and the sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored separately. Cook the beef fresh for best texture and assemble the bowl just before serving.
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Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Savory Smash Burger Bowl featuring crispy air-fried red potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, and a creamy Cajun sauce, all topped with shredded cheese, pickles, and fresh lettuce for a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic burger.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 3 medium Red Potatoes, diced (can substitute with brown rice)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for tossing potatoes)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
For the Onions
- 1 cup Onions, diced
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
For the Beef
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean for a healthier option)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Ketchup (low-sugar recommended)
- 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon preferred)
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)
For Assembly
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or Pepper Jack recommended)
- 1/2 cup Pickles, sliced
- 1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens)
Instructions
- Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they turn crispy and golden brown.
- Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they become golden brown and caramelized, developing a deep, sweet flavor.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the heat of the skillet to medium-high. Add the ground beef and press (smash) it down with a spatula to create a thin patty in the pan. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes, then flip and cook for about 5-7 minutes total, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, until fully cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired for creaminess and spice.
- Assemble the Bowls: Begin by layering the crispy air-fried potatoes at the bottom of each bowl. Add the smashed cooked beef on top, followed by the caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Drizzle the prepared Cajun sauce over everything, then finish by topping with pickles and fresh lettuce for crunch and freshness.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use lean ground beef and low-sugar ketchup.
- Red potatoes can be substituted with brown rice to alter texture and nutrition.
- Colby Jack or pepper jack cheese adds a nice flavor contrast, but feel free to use your favorite cheese.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, the potatoes can be baked in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until crisp.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning in the sauce for heat levels tailored to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: smash burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, Cajun sauce, ground beef bowl, easy dinner, low carb burger bowl
