Introduction

The Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious, deconstructed take on the classic burger, combining crispy potatoes, caramelized onions, juicy smashed beef, and a flavorful homemade sauce. It’s perfect for a satisfying meal that’s easy to assemble and full of comforting flavors.

Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

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

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 and cook the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until crispy and golden.
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 until they are soft and golden brown.
Step 3: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and smash it flat with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Make the sauce by whisking together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning or creaminess as desired.
Step 5: Assemble the bowls by starting with a layer of crispy potatoes. Add the smashed beef on top, followed by the caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Drizzle with the sauce and finish by adding pickles and lettuce as a fresh, crunchy topping.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free option, be sure your Cajun seasoning and ketchup do not contain gluten.
Swap red potatoes for cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different base texture.
Try adding avocado slices or a fried egg on top for extra richness.
Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or cheddar for a classic flavor.

Storage

Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the potatoes and beef in a skillet or microwave until warm. Add fresh toppings like lettuce and pickles after reheating to keep their texture crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

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

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare all components ahead of time and assemble the bowls when ready to eat for a quick and satisfying meal.

Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 102 reviews

This Savory Smash Burger Bowl combines crispy air-fried diced red potatoes with caramelized onions and smashed ground beef, layered with shredded cheese and a tangy homemade sauce. It’s a flavorful, deconstructed burger experience served in a bowl for easy eating and a healthier twist on classic burger flavors.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Main Components

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)

Sauce

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)

Additional Toppings

1/2 cup Pickles (Adds crunch)
1 cup Lettuce (Any leafy greens work)

Instructions

Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into even bite-sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 16-18 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until the onions turn a rich golden brown and become sweet and tender. Lower the heat if the onions start to burn.
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 skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up slightly to create that “smash burger” texture, and season well with salt and pepper. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This sauce adds a flavorful, creamy kick to the bowl.
Assemble the Bowls: Start by placing the crispy air-fried potatoes as the base in each bowl. Add the smashed beef on top, followed by caramelized onions and shredded cheese to melt slightly from the residual heat. Drizzle the prepared sauce generously over the top. Finish by adding pickles and fresh lettuce for crunch and freshness. Serve immediately for the best taste.

Notes

You can substitute red potatoes with brown rice for a gluten-free or lower-carb option.
Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier and reduce excess fat.
The Cajun seasoning can be adjusted or omitted depending on your spice preference.
For a vegetarian version, replace beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils.
Make sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure potatoes crisp evenly.

Keywords: Smash burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, Cajun sauce, easy burger bowl, weeknight dinner