This Burger Bowl recipe has all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, just without the bun. Juicy seasoned beef, crisp lettuce, and a creamy sauce come together in one easy bowl. It’s my favorite way to satisfy a burger craving at home.
Prepare the fries in the air fryer or oven according to package directions until crispy.
In a small bowl, whisk together the burger sauce ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use for the best flavor.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion and sauté for 3–5 minutes, until softened and slightly translucent.
Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Break the meat apart and cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
Carefully drain any excess oil or blot with a paper towel for a lighter bowl.
To assemble, divide the shredded lettuce among serving bowls. Top with the cooked beef, tomatoes, pickles, red onion, avocado, and fries if using.
Drizzle generously with burger sauce and serve immediately.
Notes
Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of juiciness and flavor. Leaner meat can dry out quickly.
Let the beef cook undisturbed for a minute or two to develop crispy, caramelized edges.
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking for that classic burger flavor.
Make the burger sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few hours so the flavors meld together.
Keep your lettuce cold and crisp by washing and drying it ahead, then storing it in the fridge until serving.
Slice toppings evenly so every bite has a good mix of textures and flavors.
For a cheesy version, melt a slice of American cheese or sprinkle shredded cheddar over the hot beef.
Skip the fries for a lighter bowl and add extra avocado or crispy bacon instead.
Store each component separately if meal prepping to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Reheat leftover beef in a skillet for the best texture, and re-crisp fries in the oven or air fryer before serving.
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