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Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

4.7 from 145 reviews

This Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines crispy air-fried red potatoes with caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, and a flavorful Cajun-spiced sauce. Topped with shredded cheese, pickles, and fresh lettuce, this bowl offers all the favorites of a classic burger in an easy and hearty bowl format perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 3 medium Red Potatoes (can substitute with brown rice)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for tossing potatoes)
  • Salt and pepper (to season potatoes)

Caramelized Onions

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

Beef

  • 1 lb Ground Beef (lean for healthier option)
  • Salt and pepper (to season beef)

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Ketchup (low-sugar recommended)
  • 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon recommended)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)

Toppings

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

Instructions

  1. Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat thoroughly. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), then cook the potatoes in it for 16 to 18 minutes until they become crispy and golden brown on the outside while tender inside.
  2. Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes air fry, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 10 to 15 minutes until they soften and develop a rich, golden-brown caramelized flavor.
  3. Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high in the same skillet. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart and pressing it down (‘smashing’) so it cooks evenly and forms a browned crust. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked through, seasoning 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 or proportions to your liking for creaminess and spice.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, start with a base layer of crispy air-fried potatoes. Add the smashed beef on top followed by caramelized onions. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the warm ingredients so it slightly melts. Drizzle the prepared Cajun sauce and finish with pickles and fresh lettuce for crunch and freshness.

Notes

  • You can substitute red potatoes with cooked brown rice for a different texture and to keep it gluten-free.
  • Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning and sauce ingredients to control spiciness and creaminess according to personal preference.
  • For extra crispiness, shake or toss potatoes halfway through air frying.
  • This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to suit portion needs.

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