Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

Introduction

The Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious twist on a classic burger, served without the bun and packed with flavor. Combining crispy potatoes, caramelized onions, seasoned beef, and a creamy Cajun sauce, this bowl is 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

1. Step 1: Prep the base by dicing the red potatoes. Toss them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and cook the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
2. Step 2: While the potatoes cook, caramelize the onions. Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the diced onions, and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and soft.
3. Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef to the same skillet, and smash it down with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for your preferred creaminess and spice level.
5. Step 5: Assemble your smash burger bowls by starting with the crispy potatoes, then layering the cooked beef and caramelized onions. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, drizzle the sauce on top, and finish with pickles and lettuce to add crunch and freshness.

Tips & Variations

• For a healthier version, use lean ground beef and substitute potatoes with cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice.
• Try different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, roast the potatoes in a 425°F oven for about 25-30 minutes until crispy.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the bowl in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave briefly, then add fresh lettuce and pickles to retain their crunch.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version. Adjust seasonings as needed.

What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning?

If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper will work well as a substitute.

Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.7 from 110 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful and hearty Savory Smash Burger Bowl combining crispy air-fried red potatoes, caramelized onions, and smashed ground beef, all topped with melty cheese and a zesty homemade sauce for a satisfying low-carb twist on a classic burger.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 3 medium Red Potatoes, diced
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for tossing potatoes)
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

Onions

• 1 cup Onions, diced
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for caramelizing)

Beef

• 1 lb Ground Beef (lean recommended)
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

Sauce

• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Ketchup (low sugar preferred)
• 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon recommended)
• 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning

Toppings

• 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or Pepper Jack)
• 1/2 cup Pickles, sliced
• 1 cup Lettuce (any leafy variety)

---

Instructions

1. Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Air fry the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
2. Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook slowly for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become golden brown and caramelized, enhancing their natural sweetness.
3. Cook the Beef: Increase the skillet’s heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use a spatula to smash the beef into an even layer in the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes without stirring too much to develop a caramelized crust. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired for creaminess and spice level.
5. Assemble the Bowls: Start by layering the crispy air-fried potatoes at the base of your serving bowls. Add the smashed beef on top, followed by a generous amount of caramelized onions. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the warm ingredients, allowing it to melt slightly. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the bowl, then top with crunchy pickles and fresh lettuce for a refreshing finish.

Notes

• You can substitute diced brown rice for the potatoes to create a grain-based bowl variation.
• Using lean ground beef reduces fat content without sacrificing flavor.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the spice level of the sauce.
• For a lower-calorie option, use light mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture of the crispy potatoes and melty cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: smash burger, burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, savory bowl, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef recipe