Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

Introduction

The Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious twist on a classic burger, served in a bowl for a comforting and satisfying meal. Crispy red potatoes, caramelized onions, and seasoned ground beef come together with a creamy Cajun sauce for a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for any day.

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)
• Olive oil (for cooking and tossing potatoes)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Dice the red potatoes, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then cook in the air fryer for 16-18 minutes until crispy and golden.
2. Step 2: While the potatoes cook, heat a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and sweet.
3. Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef to the skillet, and use a spatula to smash the meat flat. Cook for 5-7 minutes while seasoning with salt and pepper, until browned and cooked through.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed for your preferred level of spice and creaminess.
5. Step 5: To assemble the bowls, start by layering the crispy potatoes as the base. Add the smashed beef, followed by the caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Drizzle the Cajun sauce over the top, and finish with pickles and fresh lettuce for crunch and freshness.

Tips & Variations

• For a lower-carb option, replace potatoes with cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice.
• Try pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick, or use vegan cheese to make it dairy-free.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to control the heat; add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Use a cast iron skillet if available to get a nice sear on the beef.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. To keep potatoes crispy, reheat them separately in a hot oven or air fryer.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer for the potatoes?

Yes, you can roast the diced potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure they become crispy and golden.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely. The components can be cooked and stored separately, then assembled just before eating to keep the textures fresh and delicious.

Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 132 reviews

A delicious and hearty Savory Smash Burger Bowl combining crispy air-fried red potatoes, caramelized onions, juicy smashed ground beef, melted cheese, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce for a satisfying low-carb alternative to traditional burgers.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Lunch/Dinner
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 3 medium Red Potatoes (diced; can substitute with brown rice)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for tossing potatoes)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Caramelized Onions

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

Beef

• 1 lb Ground Beef (lean for a healthier option)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Cheese

• 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or pepper jack recommended)

Sauce

• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (adjust for desired creaminess)
• 2 tbsp Ketchup (low-sugar for a healthier option)
• 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon preferred)
• 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)

Garnishes

• 1/2 cup Pickles (adds crunch)
• 1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens)

Instructions

1. Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and air fry the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they turn crispy and golden brown.
2. Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook them slowly for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and develop a sweet, rich flavor.
3. Cook the Beef: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high, add the ground beef to the same skillet, and use a spatula to smash it down flat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as needed, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, until the beef is fully cooked and nicely browned.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to your taste preference for the desired creaminess and spice.
5. Assemble the Bowls: Start by arranging the crispy air-fried potatoes as the base in your serving bowls. Layer the smashed beef on top, then add the caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Drizzle the Cajun mayo sauce generously over the bowl, then garnish with pickles and fresh lettuce to add crunch and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• You can substitute red potatoes with brown rice for a different texture.
• Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning in the sauce according to your preferred spice level.
• Feel free to use Colby Jack or pepper jack cheese based on your taste preference.
• This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free ketchup and mayo.
• Leftover components can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated before assembling.

Keywords: smash burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed beef, Cajun sauce, easy dinner bowl, low fat burger bowl