These Easy Burger Bowls are a fun and healthy twist on your favorite burgers! They feature juicy ground beef and colorful veggies, served over a bed of fresh greens.
I love how customizable they are—add your favorite toppings like cheese, pickles, or ranch dressing. They’re quick to make and so tasty, you’ll wish you had them for every meal! 🍔🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend lean ground beef for less grease. If preferred, substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a healthier option or to fit dietary choices.
Romaine Lettuce: This adds crunch and freshness. Feel free to swap it with spinach, kale, or mixed salad greens if you want something different.
Potatoes: I used regular potatoes for fries, but sweet potatoes are a great alternative if you’re looking for more nutrients and sweetness. They’ll give the bowls a lovely flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic, but you can use any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Pickle Slices: These add a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t like pickles, try adding sliced jalapeños or capers for a zesty kick instead.
How Do I Get My Fries Extra Crispy?
Crispy fries make all the difference in these burger bowls! To achieve that perfect crunch, follow these tips:
- Cut potatoes into even-sized fries for uniform baking.
- Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes before baking. This removes excess starch.
- Make sure to coat them lightly but evenly with oil.
- Spread fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid crowding them.
- Flip halfway through baking for even cooking. Bake until golden and crispy, checking them toward the end to prevent burning.
Easy Burger Bowls Recipe for a Healthy Meal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, cut into fries
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8-10 pickle slices
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: salt and pepper, to taste
For the Burger Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total cooking time of about 40-45 minutes. The best part? You get delicious, healthy burger bowls ready to serve in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Fries:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cut potato fries with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden brown and crispy.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the fries are baking, heat another tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it before continuing.
3. Make the Burger Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth. Taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary. This sauce adds a delicious zing to your bowls!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
In serving bowls, start by dividing the chopped Romaine lettuce evenly. Then, layer on the cooked ground beef and baked fries. Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese and 8-10 pickle slices to your liking.
5. Drizzle and Serve:
Generously drizzle the burger sauce over each bowl, adding as much as you fancy. Serve immediately to enjoy the fun and fresh flavors!
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Dive into your delicious, healthy burger bowls without the guilt of traditional burgers. It’s a great meal for families or meal prep, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Burger Bowls Recipe
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that will still provide delicious flavor. Just ensure to cook them thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, simply omit the shredded cheddar cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute. For the burger sauce, ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free, or use an avocado-based alternative!
Can I Prepare the Ingredients in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the veggies, sauce, and even cook the ground beef ahead of time. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the beef and assemble your bowls!
What Vegetables Can I Add to the Bowls?
You can customize these bowls with any of your favorite vegetables! Consider adding diced tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, avocado, or even roasted corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
