Description

Craving the bold, comforting flavors of a burger without the bun? Look no further than Slow Cooker Burger Bowls! This delicious recipe deconstructs the classic burger into vibrant bowls featuring tender, slow-cooked beef seasoned with a smoky spice mix, crispy oven-baked potato fries, shredded lettuce, cheese, pickles, and a tangy burger sauce drizzle.

Ingredients

For the Spice Mix

Smoked Paprika (1 ½ tsp): Adds smoky, rich flavor.
- Substitution: Regular paprika or chili powder.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Infuses savory warmth.
- Substitution: 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced, added to beef.
Onion Powder (1 tsp): Brings subtle, sweet depth.
- Substitution: ¼ cup finely diced onion or ½ tsp dried minced onion.
Dried Oregano or Mixed Herbs (1 tsp): Adds herbaceous notes.
- Substitution: Dried thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances overall flavor.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds mild heat.
- Substitution: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

For the Bowls

Lean Beef Mince (500 g / 1 lb): Provides a savory, burger-like base.
- Substitution: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based mince for vegetarian.
Medium Potatoes (2-3): Create crispy, fry-like texture.
- Substitution: Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or cauliflower for low-carb.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp, divided): Used for potatoes and beef.
- Substitution: Avocado oil, vegetable oil, or butter.
Lettuce, Shredded (2 cups): Adds crisp, fresh texture.
- Substitution: Spinach, arugula, or coleslaw mix.
Cheese, Dairy-Free or Regular (½ cup, shredded): Brings melty, burger-like flavor.
- Substitution: Cheddar, mozzarella, or omit for vegan.
Pickle Slices (½ cup): Adds tangy crunch.
- Substitution: Pickled onions, cucumbers, or capers.

For the Burger Sauce

Mayonnaise (4 tbsp): Creates a creamy, tangy base.
- Substitution: Greek yogurt, sour cream, or vegan mayo.
Ketchup (1 tbsp): Adds sweet, tomatoey depth.
- Substitution: Tomato paste with a pinch of sugar.
Mustard, Dijon or Yellow (1 tsp): Brings sharp, tangy flavor.
- Substitution: Whole-grain mustard or ½ tsp mustard powder.
Pickle Juice (1 tsp, from jar): Enhances tanginess.
- Substitution: White vinegar or lemon juice.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Adds savory depth.
- Substitution: 1 fresh garlic clove, minced.
Smoked Paprika (½ tsp): Infuses smoky warmth.
- Substitution: Regular paprika or chili powder.

Why They’re Important: The lean beef mince delivers the burger’s meaty core, while the spice mix adds smoky, savory depth. Potatoes mimic fries, lettuce and pickles provide freshness, and cheese ties in classic burger flavor. The burger sauce brings creamy, tangy balance, making each bowl a deconstructed delight.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

In a small bowl, combine 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried oregano or mixed herbs, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- Tip: Double the spice mix and store in an airtight container for future use. Adjust salt or pepper to taste for bolder flavor.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Beef

Place 500 g lean beef mince in the slow cooker, breaking it apart with a spoon. Sprinkle the entire spice mix over the beef, add 1 tbsp olive oil, and stir to coat evenly.
Add ¼ cup beef broth or water to keep the beef moist. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is cooked through and tender, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Stir the beef halfway through if possible to ensure even cooking. Break up any clumps with a spoon before serving.
- Tip: Use lean beef (90/10 or 93/7) to avoid excess grease. Drain any liquid after cooking if needed, reserving for another use (e.g., gravy). A slow cooker liner simplifies cleanup.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

About 40 minutes before the beef is done, preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Wash and cut 2-3 medium potatoes into chip-sized wedges or fries, then pat dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp smoked paprika (or a pinch of the spice mix). Arrange in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Alternatively, air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 20 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Tip: Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes and pat dry for extra crispiness. Ensure potatoes are spaced on the tray to avoid steaming.

Step 4: Make the Burger Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 4 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp ketchup, 1 tsp mustard, 1 tsp pickle juice, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp smoked paprika. Mix until smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more pickle juice for tang or ketchup for sweetness. Set aside at room temperature or refrigerate if preparing early.
- Tip: Use Dijon for a sharper sauce or yellow mustard for classic burger flavor. Double the recipe for extra drizzling or dipping.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the crispy potatoes among 4 serving bowls, creating a base. Add ½ cup shredded lettuce to each bowl, arranging it beside the potatoes.
Spoon the cooked beef mince over the potatoes and lettuce, ensuring an even portion (about ½ cup per bowl).
Top each bowl with 2 tbsp shredded cheese, 2-3 pickle slices, and a drizzle of burger sauce (1-2 tbsp per bowl).
- Tip: Layer ingredients for a colorful presentation—potatoes and lettuce on the bottom, beef in the center, and toppings as a crown. Warm bowls slightly for a cozy touch.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the bowls immediately, encouraging diners to mix the components for a blend of flavors and textures.
Pair with a side salad, coleslaw, or extra pickles for a complete meal. Serve with iced tea, soda, or a light beer (like a lager) for a diner-inspired vibe.
- Tip: Offer extra burger sauce and cheese on the side for customization. Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant layers.