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Savory smash burger bowl with fresh ingredients and low-carb options

Savory Smash Burger Bowl

A hearty yet light meal featuring smashed beef, crispy potatoes, and a tangy sauce, perfect for any season.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Main protein and produce
  • 1 pound lean ground beef, chilled slightly Choose 90/10 to keep it lean
  • 3 medium red potatoes, cubed Or substitute cooked brown rice for a softer bowl
  • 1 cup onions, thinly sliced Caramelized until golden-brown
Cheese, greens and crunch
  • 1 cup shredded cheese, such as Colby Jack Or pepper jack for a kick; use dairy-free for a vegan version
  • 1 cup lettuce or mixed leafy greens Washed and spun dry
Sauce and seasonings
  • ½ cup mayonnaise Adjust for creaminess; light mayo or vegan mayo can be used
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup Low-sugar optional for lower sugar content
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard For tang
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Start light and adjust to taste
Pickles and finishing crunch
  • ½ cup pickles, sliced or chopped Adds crunch and acidity

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash and cube the red potatoes, slice the onions, shred the cheese, chop pickles, and toss the lettuce.
  2. Combine mayo, ketchup, and mustard in a small bowl with a pinch of Cajun seasoning. Taste and adjust as needed.
Cooking Potatoes
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add cubed red potatoes, and simmer for 6-8 minutes until just fork-tender. Drain and let dry.
Caramelizing Onions
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-low heat, add sliced onions with a pinch of salt, and cook for 15-20 minutes until deep golden.
Crisping Potatoes
  1. In a separate skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil and drained potatoes in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes until forming a crust.
Smashing the Beef
  1. Portion ground beef into 4-6 golf-ball-sized portions and lightly season with salt. Heat cast iron or heavy skillet until very hot.
  2. Place a beef ball in the hot skillet, press down with a metal spatula, then season and cook for 2-3 minutes. Flip and add cheese, cook for an additional 30-60 seconds.
Assembling the Bowl
  1. Start with a base of lettuce or greens, add crispy potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed beef patties, pickles, cheese, and a generous dollop of sauce.
Serving
  1. Serve warm, offering extra pickles and sauce on the side.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for best results and feel free to customize with toppings like avocado or a fried egg for a breakfast variation.