Print

Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 1 review

This Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious, high-protein meal that combines crispy air-fried potatoes, juicy ground beef with crispy edges, melty cheese, fresh greens, and a creamy, tangy special sauce. It offers all the classic flavors of a smash burger without the bun, making it a perfect customizable dinner option.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
  • 1 lb red potatoes, diced
  • 12 cups shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese
  • 1 cup chopped lettuce or mixed greens
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 12 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

  1. Cook the potatoes: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced red potatoes with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them in the air fryer basket and cook for 16 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
  2. Caramelize the onions: While the potatoes cook, heat a skillet over medium-low heat with a little olive oil. Add the diced onions and cook slowly for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the beef: Using the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and break it up in the pan. Press the meat down firmly to create crispy edges similar to a smash burger. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the beef is nicely browned. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow or Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Assemble the bowls: Divide the crispy potatoes into serving bowls, top with the crispy ground beef, caramelized onions, and shredded cheese. Drizzle the special sauce over the top, then finish by adding lettuce or mixed greens and any optional toppings like pickles or fresh parsley as desired.

Notes

  • For a lower-carb option, swap the potatoes with rice, cauliflower rice, or use additional lettuce.
  • Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can be used as substitutes for the ground beef.
  • For best meal-prep results, store the components separately to maintain texture and freshness.
  • The special sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.