Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe
This Savory Smash Burger Bowl combines crispy air-fried red potatoes, caramelized onions, and smashed ground beef, layered with a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce and topped with cheese, pickles, and fresh lettuce for a deconstructed burger experience in a bowl.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Base
- 3 medium Red Potatoes, diced
- Olive oil, for tossing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Beef and Onions
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean preferred)
- 1 cup Onions, diced
- Olive oil, for cooking onions
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Ketchup (low-sugar recommended)
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 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)
- Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Spread the potatoes evenly inside and air fry for 16-18 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, developing a rich, sweet flavor.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Using a spatula, smash the beef into the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed for desired creaminess and spice level.
- Assemble the Bowls: Start by placing the crispy air-fried potatoes as the base in your serving bowls. Layer on the smashed ground beef, then add the caramelized onions. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top while the beef and potatoes are still warm to allow the cheese to slightly melt. Drizzle the Cajun mayo sauce over the bowl, and finish with pickles and fresh lettuce for crunch and brightness.
Notes
- For a healthier variation, use lean ground beef and low-sugar ketchup.
- Substitute red potatoes with brown rice if you prefer a grain base.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the spice level in the sauce.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, double-check the ingredients in the Cajun seasoning and ketchup for hidden gluten.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat the beef and potatoes separately for best texture.
Keywords: smash burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed beef, Cajun mayo sauce, easy burger recipe, low sugar ketchup