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Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe

4.9 from 85 reviews

This Savory Smash Burger Bowl combines crispy air-fried red potatoes with caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, and a spicy, creamy Cajun sauce. Topped with melted cheese, pickles, and fresh lettuce, this recipe offers all the flavors of a classic smash burger in a hearty bowl perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Potato Base

  • 3 medium Red Potatoes, diced
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for tossing potatoes)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Caramelized Onions

  • 1 cup Onions, diced
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for caramelizing)

Beef

  • 1 lb Ground Beef (lean for healthier option)
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp Ketchup (low-sugar preferred)
  • 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon recommended)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning

Toppings

  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or Pepper Jack)
  • 1/2 cup Pickles, sliced
  • 1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper to evenly coat. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and air fry the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown on the outside yet tender inside.
  2. Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook slowly for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and develop a sweet, rich flavor.
  3. Cook the Beef: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use a spatula to smash the beef down into an even layer and cook it without stirring for 3-4 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The goal is to create a flavorful crust typical of smash burgers.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking to balance creaminess and spice.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: Start by placing the crispy air-fried potatoes in a serving bowl. Layer the smashed beef over the potatoes, followed by the caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Drizzle the prepared Cajun sauce generously over the top. Finish with pickles and fresh lettuce for crunch and freshness.

Notes

  • You can substitute the red potatoes with cooked brown rice for a lighter version.
  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning in the sauce based on your preferred spice level.
  • To make the recipe leaner, use lean ground beef and low-fat mayonnaise.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat the potatoes and beef in a skillet or air fryer to maintain crispness.
  • For extra flavor, add a fried egg on top of the bowl before serving.

Keywords: smash burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, Cajun sauce, ground beef bowl, easy dinner, quick meal