Description

This Savory Smash Burger Bowl combines crispy air-fried red potatoes with caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, melty cheese, and a zesty Cajun mayo sauce. It’s a flavorful, hearty, and customizable bowl perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner without the bun.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

1 lb Ground Beef (lean for a healthier option)
3 medium Red Potatoes (can substitute with brown rice)
1 cup Onions, diced (for caramelizing)
1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens)
1/2 cup Pickles (adds crunch)

Dairy

1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or pepper jack recommended)

Sauces and Seasonings

1/2 cup Mayonnaise (adjust for desired creaminess)
2 tbsp Ketchup (use low-sugar for a healthier option)
1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon recommended)
1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)
Olive oil (for cooking and tossing potatoes)
Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes into bite-sized pieces, toss them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and cook the potatoes for 16 to 18 minutes until they develop a crispy golden crust.
Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes are cooking, heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook slowly for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, enhancing 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 down, cooking it for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste while cooking.
Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning or creaminess to your preference.
Assemble the Bowls: In each serving bowl, start with the crispy air-fried potatoes as the base. Add the smashed ground beef, caramelized onions, and shredded cheese on top. Drizzle generously with the Cajun mayo sauce and finish with fresh lettuce and pickles for crunch and freshness.

Notes

You can substitute red potatoes with brown rice for a grain bowl variation.
Use lean ground beef or turkey for a lower-fat option.
Adjust Cajun seasoning and sauce ingredients according to your spice preference.
Feel free to add other toppings like tomatoes, avocado, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Leftover bowls keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days; add fresh greens when serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: smash burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, ground beef bowl, Cajun mayo, easy dinner bowl, low carb burger bowl