Burger Bowls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Loaded Burger Bowls are a fun and flavorful take on a classic burger. You get all the familiar tastes—juicy beef, crisp potatoes, creamy cheese, and tangy pickles—without the bun. Plus, they are incredibly versatile, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences. Want to go with turkey or chicken instead of beef? No problem! Looking for a vegetarian option? Swap the beef for a plant-based alternative. It’s the perfect dish for those nights when you need something quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Potatoes:

1.2 kg (2 lb 10 oz) washed potatoes (any variety), peeled or unpeeled, cut into cubes (approximately 2 cm/¾ inch)

2 tsp sea salt flakes

¼ tsp cracked black pepper

4 tbsp olive oil

For the Beef:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, finely diced

500 g (1 lb 2 oz) lean minced (ground) beef (or turkey or chicken)

1 tsp sea salt flakes

1 tsp sweet paprika

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp cracked black pepper

For the Burger Sauce:

1 cup (250 g) whole-egg mayonnaise

2 tbsp finely chopped gherkins (dill pickles)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp ketchup

1 tsp sweet paprika

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1–2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)

To Serve:

1 large cos (romaine) lettuce, cut into strips

½ cup (60 g) shredded cheddar or any other burger cheese

200 g (7 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved

½ red onion, finely sliced

¼ cup (45 g) sliced gherkins (dill pickles)

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) (200°C/400°F fan-forced). Place the potatoes in a large baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Season with sea salt, cracked black pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Toss the potatoes to coat evenly and bake for 40 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning halfway through.

Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 4–5 minutes until it starts to brown. Season with sea salt, sweet paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cracked black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another minute. Set aside.

Make the Burger Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped gherkins, Dijon mustard, ketchup, sweet paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Add 1 tablespoon of water at a time, stirring until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowls: Divide the chopped lettuce into four bowls. Top with the baked potatoes, cooked beef, and shredded cheese. Add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and sliced gherkins. Drizzle generously with the burger sauce and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Protein Swap: Replace the beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner version, or try a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian option.

Cheese Options: Feel free to use different cheeses such as mozzarella, Swiss, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.

Add Veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some avocado for added richness and texture.

Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to check your burger sauce ingredients for any hidden gluten.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. Keep in mind that the potatoes will soften slightly upon reheating but will still be delicious.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes, beef, and burger sauce in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat and assemble the bowls.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes would add a nice sweetness to the dish and are a great alternative to regular potatoes.

Can I make the burger sauce without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo alternative if you prefer a lighter version.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra spicy kick.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

While the assembled bowls are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the beef and potatoes separately. When ready to eat, reheat and assemble the bowls.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can use any cheese you like. Try American cheese for a classic burger feel, or go with something sharper like cheddar or gouda.

How can I make this recipe low-carb?

To make this recipe low-carb, you can substitute the potatoes with roasted cauliflower or a low-carb vegetable of your choice.

Can I add bacon to the bowls?

Yes, crispy bacon would make an excellent addition to these bowls, adding a savory crunch.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare all the components in advance and store them separately in the fridge for easy meal prep throughout the week.

How do I make these bowls vegetarian?

Simply swap the beef for a vegetarian patty or plant-based ground meat, and use a vegan mayonnaise in the burger sauce.

Conclusion

Loaded Burger Bowls are a fun and delicious alternative to traditional burgers, offering all the familiar flavors in a lighter, customizable bowl. With crispy potatoes, savory beef, fresh veggies, and a creamy burger sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need something quick and tasty. It’s easy to make, easy to adjust for dietary needs, and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this twist on a classic burger the next time you’re craving something hearty and satisfying!

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