If you have a craving for all the juicy goodness of a burger but want to skip the bun and keep things fresh and vibrant, the Smashburger Bowls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish perfectly blends savory smashed beef patties with crisp romaine, tangy pickles, creamy avocado, and a homemade special sauce that ties every bite together. It’s comfort food reinvented in a healthy, crave-worthy bowl that comes together quickly, making it an absolute winner for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Smashburger Bowls Recipe calls for simple, accessible ingredients that each bring their own magic to the bowl—layering textures, tastes, and colors that make every mouthful a delight.
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20): The perfect ratio for juicy, flavorful burger patties without too much grease.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami depth to the beef mix.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle savory punch that complements the meat.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the burger’s aroma and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that makes the patties irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground to add a slight heat and complexity.
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, it’s the perfect bed for the hearty toppings.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten the bowl.
- 1/2 cup red onion thinly sliced: Offers a sharp, tangy bite that cuts through the richness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, sharp, and melty cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.
- 1/2 cup sliced dill pickles: Tangy crunch that adds a classic burger touch.
- 1 ripe avocado sliced: Creamy texture and mild flavor that balance the savory elements beautifully.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The rich base of the special sauce, binding everything together.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang for that true burger flavor.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: A little zing that livens up the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice: Gives the sauce a bright, tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional): For those who like a hint of spice in their Smashburger Bowls Recipe.
How to Make Smashburger Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Beef
Start by mixing the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Be gentle with the mixing to keep the meat tender but evenly seasoned—this little step sets the stage for juicy, flavorful patties.
Step 2: Cook the Smashburger Patties
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat to ensure a perfect sear. Divide the beef mixture into four equal parts, then press each into thin patties in the hot skillet. Let them cook without disturbing for 2 to 3 minutes per side, allowing the outside to caramelize beautifully while the inside stays juicy and cooked through. Once done, set the patties aside—your kitchen is already starting to smell incredible!
Step 3: Whisk Up the Special Sauce
While the patties cook, prepare the magic behind this bowl—your special sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle juice, and any hot sauce you enjoy. Whisk it well until smooth. This creamy, tangy sauce is what truly elevates your Smashburger Bowls Recipe into something unforgettable.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Now it’s time to build your bowls. Divide the fresh chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onions, shredded cheddar cheese, dill pickles, and avocado slices among four bowls. Top each with a warm smashed burger patty—slice the patty if you prefer to spread it throughout the bowl for easy bites. Finish by drizzling the special sauce generously over everything and serve immediately while the patties are still warm.
How to Serve Smashburger Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to take your Smashburger Bowls Recipe to the next level, fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro add a burst of color and brightness. A sprinkle of crispy fried onions or a few jalapeño slices can bring crunch and a little heat. Don’t underestimate the power of a lemon wedge to add a zesty squeeze just before digging in!
Side Dishes
This bowl is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with some classic sides. Crunchy sweet potato fries or kettle-cooked chips complement the burger flavors wonderfully. For a lighter option, consider a simple cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw that plays off the rich sauce and beef.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, serve the components buffet-style and let guests build their own Smashburger Bowls Recipe. Another fun twist is layering the ingredients in a large glass bowl or mason jar—perfect for a picnic or weekend lunch. The vibrant layers also make for a visually stunning presentation, guaranteed to impress anyone at your table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any Smashburger Bowls leftover (unlikely, but worth knowing), store the components separately in airtight containers. Keep the patties in one container and the fresh veggies in another to maintain crispness. The special sauce can be refrigerated in a small jar. Assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh and delicious.
Freezing
While the fresh veggies don’t freeze well, you can freeze the cooked smashed burger patties by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the thawed patties gently in a skillet over medium heat, about 2 minutes per side, just until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can dry out the meat. Reassemble your Smashburger Bowls Recipe just before serving to keep the fresh ingredients crisp and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! For a lighter, leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great. Just be mindful they cook a bit faster and can dry out, so watch cooking times carefully and consider adding a bit of olive oil or a small amount of ground pork to keep them juicy.
Is this Smashburger Bowls Recipe low-carb?
Yes! Since this dish skips the bun and focuses on fresh veggies and protein, it’s naturally low in carbs. For an even lower carb count, add more veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or extra avocado.
What can I swap for cheddar cheese?
Feel free to experiment with cheeses like pepper jack for a little heat, Swiss for mild nuttiness, or even a sprinkle of feta for tang. The cheese adds a creamy texture and sharpness that’s key to the bowl’s flavor balance.
How spicy is the recipe?
The base recipe is mild, but the optional hot sauce in the special sauce gives you control over how much heat you want. You can also add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a kickier bowl.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can definitely make the special sauce and even cook the burger patties ahead of time. Just keep the fresh veggies separate and assemble the bowls right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully satisfying about the Smashburger Bowls Recipe that makes it a true crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, delicious, and customizable—whether you’re craving a classic burger flavor or want to get creative with add-ins. Give it a go, and you might just find yourself making this recipe on repeat—it’s just that good!
Print
Smashburger Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Smashburger Bowls are a delicious low-carb, gluten-free twist on the classic burger. Ground beef patties are seasoned and cooked stovetop, then served in a bowl with fresh romaine, cherry tomatoes, red onions, cheddar cheese, pickles, and creamy special sauce. This recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal with all the taste of a burger without the bun.
Ingredients
Beef Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salad & Toppings
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced dill pickles
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
Special Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Cook the patties: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions. Place each portion in the skillet and smash into thin patties using a spatula or burger press. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until patties are browned and cooked through.
- Make the special sauce: While patties cook, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle juice, and hot sauce in a small bowl until smooth.
- Assemble the bowls: Distribute chopped romaine lettuce evenly among 4 bowls. Top each with cherry tomatoes, red onions, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced pickles, and avocado slices.
- Add the cooked patties: Place a smashed burger patty on top of the salad in each bowl. You can slice the patties if desired for easier eating.
- Drizzle and serve: Spoon the special sauce over each assembled bowl. Serve immediately while the patties are warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- You can swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- To keep the dish low-carb, add extra vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers.
- Make sure to use gluten-free condiments if you need this recipe to be gluten-free.
