Burger Bowls
These Burger Bowls transform the classic burger into a vibrant summer dinner that’s light yet satisfying. By swapping the bun for a crisp salad base, this Loaded Burger Bowls recipe delivers the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger—seasoned beef, crunchy pickles, and a zesty sauce—while incorporating fresh lettuce and crispy potato fries. Perfect for warm evenings, this Hamburger Bowl Recipes dish is versatile, healthy, and packed with texture. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or need a quick weeknight meal, these bowls are a fun, deconstructed take on burger night.
Ingredients
For the Spice Mix:
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Bowls:
- 2-3 medium potatoes cut into fries or wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 1 lb 500g lean ground beef
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese dairy-free or regular
- 1/4 cup pickle slices
For the Burger Sauce:
- 4 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
- 1 tsp pickle juice from the jar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Potatoes: Cut 2-3 potatoes into fries or wedges and pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Toss potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and half the spice mix in a large bowl. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Sprinkle the remaining spice mix over the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes more until fully cooked and moisture has evaporated. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Make the Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp mustard, 1 tsp pickle juice, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide crispy potatoes among 4 bowls. Add 1/2 cup shredded lettuce to each. Top with cooked beef, 2 tbsp shredded cheese, and pickle slices. Drizzle each bowl with 1-2 tbsp burger sauce. Serve immediately for a fresh summer dinner.
Notes
- Crispy Potatoes: Pat potatoes dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness in this Burger Bowls recipe.
- Even Seasoning: Use the same spice mix for beef and potatoes for cohesive flavor in Loaded Burger Bowls.
- Fresh Toppings: Add lettuce and pickles just before serving to keep them crisp for this summer dinner.
- Adjust Sauce: Taste the burger sauce and tweak with extra pickle juice or mustard for your preferred tang.
- Meal Prep: Store beef, potatoes, and sauce separately; reheat potatoes in an air fryer for quick Hamburger Bowl Recipes assembly.