BEST BURGER BOWLS EVER

Imagine sinking your fork into a bowl brimming with seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and that tangy burger sauce you adore – all without the bun! These Burger Bowls are the answer to your weeknight dinner dreams, offering all the satisfaction of a classic burger in a healthier, customizable package, and I promise you’ll be making them again and again.

Ingredients

For the Burger Base:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner, your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For the Bowl Assembly (per bowl):

• 2 cups shredded lettuce (iceberg, romaine, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
• 2 tablespoons burger sauce (recipe follows)
• Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, avocado slices, red onion, jalapeños

For the Burger Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Started:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika and onion powder for the burger sauce. Set aside.

Cook the Beef:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon.
5. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes, draining off any excess grease.

Assemble the Bowls:

1. Divide the shredded lettuce evenly among the bowls.
2. Top with the cooked ground beef.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and dill pickle relish.
4. Drizzle generously with the burger sauce.
5. Add any additional toppings you like.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Burger Bowl Bliss: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Okay, friend, let’s be real. Sometimes you just crave a juicy burger, but you’re trying to keep things a little lighter, or maybe you’re watching your carb intake. That’s where these Burger Bowls come in! They deliver all the deliciousness of a classic burger – the savory ground beef, the tangy sauce, the crisp toppings – but without the bun. It’s a win-win!

Making it Healthy: Hamburger Bowls Healthy Options

One of the best things about these Burger Bowls is how customizable they are, especially if you’re aiming for Hamburger Bowls Healthy variations. Want to make it even healthier? Here’s how:

• Swap the Beef: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. You can even use plant-based ground meat alternatives.
• Load up on Veggies: Add extra veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots.
• Choose a Lighter Sauce: Use Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise as a base for your burger sauce. You can also try using avocado-based dressings.
• Skip the Cheese (or use less): Reduce the amount of cheese you use, or opt for a lower-fat cheese.

By making a few simple swaps, you can easily create a delicious and nutritious meal that fits your health goals.

Mastering the Burger Sauce: The Key to Flavor

Let’s talk about that burger sauce. It’s the secret weapon that takes these Burger Bowls from good to amazing! Don’t skip it, and don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavors. I love adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a little extra smokiness, or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. Want to keep it super simple? Just mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. The possibilities are endless!

Meal Prep Magic: Meal Prep Burger Bowl Recipes

These Burger Bowls are perfect for meal prepping! Here’s how to make Meal Prep Burger Bowl Recipes a reality:

1. Cook the ground beef ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Prepare the burger sauce and store it separately in the refrigerator.
3. Chop all the vegetables and store them in airtight containers.
4. When you’re ready to assemble your bowls, simply combine all the ingredients and enjoy!

I like to pack each component separately to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy. This makes it easy to grab a healthy and delicious lunch or dinner on the go.

Customize Your Creation: Endless Topping Ideas

This is where you can really let your creativity shine! Think of your favorite burger toppings and add them to your bowl. Here are some of my go-to’s:

• Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharp, pungent flavor.
• Jalapeños: Diced jalapeños add a spicy kick.
• Pickled Onions: These add a tangy, sweet flavor.
• Fried Egg: A runny fried egg takes this dish to the next level!
• Guacamole: Adds a creamy, cool element.
• Salsa: Gives your bowl a zesty, fresh taste.

Variations on a Theme: Burger Bowl Inspirations

Once you’ve mastered the basic Burger Bowl, you can start experimenting with different flavor combinations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Bacon Cheeseburger Bowl: Add crumbled bacon and your favorite cheese.
• Spicy Burger Bowl: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, and a spicy cheese like pepper jack.
• BBQ Burger Bowl: Use BBQ sauce instead of burger sauce and add crispy fried onions.
• Mediterranean Burger Bowl: Add feta cheese, Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and a lemon-herb dressing.
• Mushroom Swiss Burger Bowl: Sauté sliced mushrooms and onions and top with Swiss cheese.

Tips and Tricks for Burger Bowl Success

Here are a few extra tips to help you make the best Burger Bowls ever:

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooked beef will be dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s browned and cooked through.
• Drain the Grease: Be sure to drain off any excess grease from the cooked beef to prevent your bowls from being greasy.
• Taste and Adjust: Taste the burger sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a big difference in the flavor of your bowls.
• Warm the Beef: Especially with Meal Prep Burger Bowl Recipes, if you are using pre-cooked beef, make sure to heat it up before adding it to your cold ingredients.

Beyond Burger Bowls: Related Recipes to Explore

If you’re a fan of burgers and quick, delicious meals, you might also enjoy some of these other recipes. For a burger with a kick, try the Fireball Whiskey Jalapeño Popper Burger. Craving comfort food? Check out the Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. For a cheesy and satisfying meal, the Cheddar Chili Mac and Cheeseburger Macaroni Recipe are great options. And if you’re looking for a truly addictive burger experience, don’t miss the Addictive Crack Burgers Recipe. Finally, for another bowl variation, consider making Philly Cheesesteak Bowls.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Burger Bowl Masterpiece

There you have it – everything you need to create the ultimate Burger Bowls! These bowls are a fun, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of a burger without the bun. Get creative with your toppings, experiment with different flavor combinations, and most importantly, have fun! I know you’re going to love these as much as I do.

BEST BURGER BOWLS EVER

Alice Yowell

Enjoy the classic burger experience without the bun with these customizable Burger Bowls. This recipe features seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy burger sauce, offering a healthier and equally satisfying weeknight dinner option. Get creative with toppings and make it your own!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Bowls for serving

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef 80/20 or leaner
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
• 2 cups shredded lettuce iceberg, romaine, or a mix
• ½ cup chopped tomatoes per bowl
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese or your favorite cheese
• 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish per bowl
• 2 tablespoons burger sauce per bowl
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Optional toppings: crumbled bacon, avocado slices, red onion, jalapeños

Instructions

 

• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika and onion powder for the burger sauce. Set aside.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon.
• Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes, draining off any excess grease.
• Divide the shredded lettuce evenly among the bowls.
• Top with the cooked ground beef.
• Add the chopped tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and dill pickle relish.
• Drizzle generously with the burger sauce.
• Add any additional toppings you like.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Add extra veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots. Use Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise for a lighter sauce. These bowls are perfect for meal prepping; store each component separately to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy. Get creative with toppings like bacon, avocado, red onion, jalapeños, or a fried egg.