Description

Want all the bold, juicy flavors of a classic burger but in a lighter, customizable format? Burger Bowls are the perfect solution! This deconstructed burger recipe swaps the bun for crispy oven-baked or air-fried potato fries, paired with seasoned beef mince, fresh lettuce, cheese, pickles, and a tangy homemade burger sauce

Ingredients

For the Spice Mix:

Smoked Paprika (1½ teaspoons): Adds smoky depth.
- Why it’s important: Gives the beef and potatoes a rich, burger-like flavor.
- Substitutions: Use regular paprika or chili powder for a spicier kick.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts savory flavor.
- Why it’s important: Adds a subtle garlicky note that enhances the meat and potatoes.
- Substitutions: Use onion powder or fresh minced garlic (1 clove, added during cooking).
Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds savory sweetness.
- Why it’s important: Complements the garlic and rounds out the spice mix.
- Substitutions: Use garlic powder or finely minced fresh onion.
Dried Oregano or Mixed Herbs (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy flavor.
- Why it’s important: Brings an herbaceous note that mimics burger seasonings.
- Substitutions: Use dried thyme, Italian seasoning, or fresh herbs (2 teaspoons).
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all flavors.
- Why it’s important: Brings out the natural taste of the beef and potatoes.
- Substitutions: Use sea salt, kosher salt, or reduce for a lower-sodium option.
Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds mild heat.
- Why it’s important: Balances the flavors with a touch of spice.
- Substitutions: Use white pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

For the Bowls:

Medium Potatoes (2–3): The starchy base.
- Why it’s important: Crispy oven-baked or air-fried fries replace the bun, adding heartiness and crunch.
- Substitutions: Use sweet potatoes, parsnips, or cauliflower for a low-carb option.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons, divided): For cooking and crispiness.
- Why it’s important: Coats the potatoes for roasting and helps brown the beef.
- Substitutions: Use avocado oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter.
Lean Beef Mince (500 grams, ~1.1 lbs): The protein star.
- Why it’s important: Provides the classic burger flavor and texture in a quick-cooking form.
- Substitutions: Use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or plant-based mince for a vegetarian option.
Lettuce (shredded): Adds fresh crunch.
- Why it’s important: Mimics the crisp lettuce on a burger, adding lightness.
- Substitutions: Use spinach, arugula, or shredded cabbage for variety.
Cheese (dairy-free or regular): Adds melty richness.
- Why it’s important: Brings that classic burger cheese flavor and creamy texture.
- Substitutions: Use cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or vegan cheese.
Pickle Slices: Add tangy crunch.
- Why it’s important: Provides the iconic burger pickle flavor and texture.
- Substitutions: Use pickled onions, jalapeños, or skip for a milder bowl.

For the Burger Sauce:

Mayonnaise (4 tablespoons): The creamy base.
- Why it’s important: Creates a rich, tangy sauce that mimics classic burger condiments.
- Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option or vegan mayo.
Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Adds sweetness and tang.
- Why it’s important: Balances the sauce with a familiar burger flavor.
- Substitutions: Use tomato paste with a pinch of sugar or BBQ sauce.
Mustard (1 teaspoon, Dijon or yellow): Adds zesty bite.
- Why it’s important: Provides a sharp, tangy contrast to the creamy mayo.
- Substitutions: Use spicy brown mustard or skip for a milder sauce.
Pickle Juice (1 teaspoon, from jar): Adds tangy depth.
- Why it’s important: Enhances the sauce with a briny, burger-like flavor.
- Substitutions: Use vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tang.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): Boosts savory flavor.
- Why it’s important: Adds a subtle savory note to the sauce.
- Substitutions: Use onion powder or fresh minced garlic (¼ teaspoon).
Smoked Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds smoky richness.
- Why it’s important: Ties the sauce to the spice mix for a cohesive flavor.
- Substitutions: Use regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder.

Pro Tip: Use lean beef mince (90/10 or 93/7) to avoid excess grease, and cut potatoes evenly for uniform cooking.

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Instructions

Prepare the Spice Mix:
- In a small bowl, combine 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano or mixed herbs, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Set aside.
- Tip: Double the spice mix and store in an airtight container for future meals.
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and cut 2–3 medium potatoes into fries (about ½-inch thick). Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
- In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and half the spice mix until well coated.
- Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet (for oven) or in the air fryer basket.
- Oven: Bake for 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Air fryer: Cook for 20 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Tip: Use parchment paper for easy cleanup in the oven. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer for crispier results.
Cook the Beef Mince:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Add 500 grams lean beef mince, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Sprinkle in the remaining spice mix and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the meat is darkened and excess moisture has evaporated.
- Tip: Drain any excess fat if using less lean beef to keep the bowl light.
Make the Burger Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon mustard, 1 teaspoon pickle juice, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Tip: Make extra sauce and refrigerate for up to a week—it’s great on sandwiches or as a dip!
Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide the crispy potatoes among 2–4 bowls (depending on portion size).
- Add shredded lettuce, cooked beef mince, cheese (shredded or crumbled), and pickle slices to each bowl.
- Drizzle with burger sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Tip: Arrange toppings in sections for a colorful, Instagram-worthy presentation.

Cooking Tip: Cook the beef while the potatoes are in the oven or air fryer to save time. Keep the beef warm on low heat if the potatoes need extra cooking time.