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SMASH BURGER BOWL

SMASH BURGER BOWL

The SMASH BURGER BOWL is a hearty and juicy twist on the classic smash burger experience, replacing the bun with a vibrant bowl full of texture, color, and nutrition. Featuring crispy edged beef patties, gooey cheddar cheese, fresh veggies, and a customizable base of rice, greens, or cauliflower rice, this recipe offers a flavorful, bun-free delight that’s quick and easy to prepare for busy days or gatherings.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended) – 1 lb
  • Cheddar Cheese – 4 slices
  • Lettuce or Mixed Greens – 2 cups
  • Tomatoes – 1 medium, chopped
  • Onions (red or white) – 1 small, sliced thin or sautéed
  • Dill Pickles – 1/4 cup, sliced
  • Burger Sauce or Special Sauce – 1/4 cup
  • Rice or Cauliflower Rice – 2 cups cooked
  • Olive Oil or Butter – 2 tbsp
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black Pepper – to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Base: Cook your chosen base (white rice, cauliflower rice, or fresh greens) according to your preference. Lightly drizzle with olive oil or butter for added richness and a glossy finish.
  2. Form and Smash the Patties: Divide the ground beef into small balls, roughly 3-4 ounces each. Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Place the meatballs on the hot surface and use a spatula to firmly press down and smash the patties thin, creating crispy edges.
  3. Season and Cook: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on the smashed patties. Cook the first side for about 2 minutes until a dark crust forms. Flip quickly and place cheddar cheese slices on top. Cook the second side for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
  4. Prepare Toppings: While patties cook, chop tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Wash and dry lettuce or greens. Use onions raw sliced thin, or sauté them lightly for a mellow sweetness.
  5. Assemble the SMASH BURGER BOWL: Place the cooked base into a bowl. Arrange the smashed cheeseburger patties on top, then layer with fresh toppings. Drizzle with burger sauce or special dressing and finish with a sprinkle of seasoning or freshly cracked black pepper.

Notes

  • Ensure your pan is hot before smashing the patties for perfect crispy crust.
  • Handle ground beef gently to keep patties tender and juicy.
  • Add cheese immediately after flipping to maximize meltiness.
  • Use fresh, crisp veggies for contrast to rich meat.
  • A tangy sauce cuts through the richness and is essential for balance.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 14 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: smash burger bowl, bunless burger, quick dinner, healthy burger, gluten free burger bowl