Savory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe
Introduction
The Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious, deconstructed take on the classic smash burger. It combines crispy red potatoes, perfectly cooked beef, caramelized onions, and a flavorful sauce for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Lean beef for a healthier option)
- 3 medium Red Potatoes (Can substitute with brown rice)
- 1 cup Onions (Caramelized for added depth)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or pepper jack recommended)
- 1/2 cup Mayo (Adjust for desired creaminess)
- 2 tbsp Ketchup (Use low-sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon is a great choice)
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup Pickles (Adds crunch)
- 1 cup Lettuce (Any leafy greens work)
Instructions
- Step 1: Dice the red potatoes and toss them with olive oil and your choice of seasoning. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
- Step 2: While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and caramelized.
- Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Smash it flat using a spatula and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart slightly as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until the sauce is smooth. Adjust the seasoning and creaminess as desired.
- Step 5: To assemble the bowls, start with a base of crispy potatoes. Layer on the cooked beef, caramelized onions, and shredded cheese. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the top and finish with pickles and lettuce for crunch and freshness.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute brown rice for potatoes to make the dish gluten-free and lighter.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or Colby Jack for a mild, creamy taste.
- Add a fried egg on top for extra richness and protein.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level or replace with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding fresh lettuce and pickles after reheating to keep them crisp.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version that still delivers great flavor.
Is it possible to bake the potatoes instead of air frying?
Absolutely. You can roast the diced potatoes in the oven at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden.
PrintSavory Smash Burger Bowl Recipe
This Savory Smash Burger Bowl combines crispy air-fried red potatoes, caramelized onions, and perfectly cooked smashed ground beef, layered with melty cheese and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make twist on classic burger flavors served in a bowl form, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or casual lunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (Lean beef for a healthier option)
- 3 medium Red Potatoes (Can substitute with brown rice)
- 1 cup Onions (Caramelized for added depth)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or Pepper Jack recommended)
- 1/2 cup Mayo (Adjust for desired creaminess)
- 2 tbsp Ketchup (Use low-sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon is a great choice)
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (Adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup Pickles (Adds crunch)
- 1 cup Lettuce (Any leafy greens work)
- Olive oil (for tossing potatoes and caramelizing onions)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Toss them in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Air fry the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown, shaking the basket halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them slowly for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use a spatula to smash the beef as it cooks, allowing it to brown nicely for about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring the beef is cooked through and has a flavorful crust.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed to get your preferred balance of spicy and tangy flavors.
- Assemble the Bowls: Start by placing the crispy air-fried potatoes as the base in your serving bowls. Layer the smashed beef on top, followed by the caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Drizzle the prepared Cajun sauce over the top and finish by adding pickles and lettuce for freshness and crunch.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the ketchup and mustard are certified gluten-free.
- Substitute red potatoes with brown rice for a different base texture and grain option.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount based on your preferred spice level.
- Use lean ground beef to keep the dish lower in fat, or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- To add extra flavor, sprinkle additional cheese on top and melt under a broiler for a minute before serving.
Keywords: smash burger bowl, air fried potatoes, caramelized onions, easy burger recipe, Cajun sauce, ground beef bowls, quick dinner

