Description
This Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious, high-protein, and customizable dinner option that combines the flavors of a classic burger without the bun. It features crispy air-fried red potatoes, juicy smashed ground beef, melted cheddar or Colby Jack cheese, fresh greens, diced onions, and a creamy special sauce made with mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning. Optional toppings like pickles and parsley add fresh bursts of flavor, making it a satisfying and flavorful bowl perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Bowl
- 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
- 1 lb red potatoes, diced
- 1–2 cups shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
- 1 cup chopped lettuce or mixed greens
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Special Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow or Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
Optional Toppings
- Pickles
- Extra lettuce
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced red potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 16–18 minutes, shaking halfway through cooking, until the potatoes are golden, crispy, and tender.
- Prepare the Ground Beef: While the potatoes are cooking, heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Place one portion on the skillet and smash it down firmly with a spatula to form a thin patty. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook each side for about 2–3 minutes until a crust forms and the meat is cooked through but still juicy. Repeat for all patties.
- Assemble the Cheese: Once the burger patties are cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese on top of each patty while still on the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil for 1–2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Make the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow or Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Smash Burger Bowl: In individual serving bowls, layer the chopped lettuce or mixed greens, crispy air-fried potatoes, cheese-topped smashed beef patties, and diced onion. Drizzle with the prepared special sauce on top. Add optional toppings such as pickles, extra lettuce, or fresh parsley as garnish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Smash Burger Bowl warm for a satisfying meal full of classic burger flavors without the bun.
Notes
- You can substitute red potatoes with Yukon gold or russet potatoes if preferred.
- For a leaner option, use 90% lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning amount in the sauce to control the spice level.
- Leftover burger bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
- Add avocado slices or pickled jalapeños for additional flavor twists.
