Too hot to turn on the oven? This smash burger bowl is for you. It is fast, fresh, and totally satisfying.
You get all the burger flavor without the heavy bun. It is the perfect summer weeknight dinner for busy families. Let’s get cooking!
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it is budget-friendly. It uses simple pantry staples you likely have now. You get a high-protein meal in minutes.
It is a great way to enjoy a healthy reset. Your kids will love the crispy beef bits. It makes meal prep for the week very easy.
Simple Method
You just need a heavy skillet for this. Roll the beef into loose balls first. Smash them flat for maximum flavor and crispy edges.
The sauce comes together in seconds. It is a very beginner-friendly process for any cook. You can do this with confidence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are fresh and easy to find at any store.
- 1 lb 80/20 Ground Beef
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 4 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce
- 1/2 cup Sliced Dill Pickles
- 1/2 cup Halved Cherry Tomatoes
- 1/4 cup Thinly Sliced Red Onion
- 1/2 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard
- 1 tbsp Sugar-free Ketchup
- 1 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish
Step-by-Step
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, and relish to create the signature sauce; set aside.
- Divide the ground beef into four 4-ounce portions and roll into loose balls.
- Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet over high heat until lightly smoking.
- Place beef balls into the dry skillet and immediately use a heavy spatula or burger press to flatten them into very thin patties.
- Season the patties with salt and pepper and sear for 2 minutes until a dark crust forms.
- Flip the patties and cook for an additional 1 minute until fully cooked.
- Layer shredded lettuce in two large bowls.
- Top lettuce with tomatoes, red onions, pickles, and shredded cheese.
- Place two smash burger patties into each bowl, breaking them into bite-sized pieces if desired.
- Drizzle with the prepared sauce and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this bowl while the beef is still warm. Drizzle the creamy signature sauce over everything generously. Pair it with some sweet potato fries.
It feels like a restaurant treat at home. Set the table and enjoy with your family. This is comfort food at its best.
Keep It Fresh
Store the beef and toppings in separate containers. This keeps the lettuce crisp and fresh. The beef stays good for three days. Reheat the patties in a skillet for 2 minutes. This keeps the edges nice and crunchy. Do not microwave the fresh lettuce!
Recipe Tips
- Use a very heavy spatula to press the beef.
- Don’t skip the cast-iron skillet for the best crust.
- Keep the beef cold until you are ready to cook.
- Soak red onions in cold water to soften their bite.
- For a summer BBQ feel, add a side of grilled corn.
- Double the sauce recipe because everyone will want extra.
- Add a handful of fresh summer berries on the side.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the red onions for fresh green onions in summer.
- Use ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for more heat.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients early. Keep the sauce and beef separate from the greens. Assemble right before you are ready to eat.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
You can use any heavy stainless steel pan. Avoid non-stick pans for this high-heat method. You want that golden sear on the beef.
Will kids eat this?
Most kids love this deconstructed burger. You can let them build their own bowls. It makes dinner time fun and interactive.
I hope this fresh bowl brings joy to your table. It is the perfect way to eat well without the fuss. Give it a try tonight!
— Lidia
Smash Burger Bowl - Prepper Protein
Ingredients
- 1 lb 80/20 Ground Beef
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 4 cups Shredded Iceberg Lettuce
- 1/2 cup Sliced Dill Pickles
- 1/2 cup Halved Cherry Tomatoes
- 1/4 cup Thinly Sliced Red Onion
- 1/2 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
- 1/4 cup Mayonnais e
- 1 tbsp Yellow Mustard
- 1 tbsp Sugar -free Ketchup
- 1 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, and relish to create the signature sauce; set aside.
- Divide the ground beef into four 4-ounce portions and roll into loose balls.
- Heat a heavy cast-iron skillet over high heat until lightly smoking.
- Place beef balls into the dry skillet and immediately use a heavy spatula or burger press to flatten them into very thin patties.
- Season the patties with salt and pepper and sear for 2 minutes until a dark crust forms.
- Flip the patties and cook for an additional 1 minute until fully cooked.
- Layer shredded lettuce in two large bowls.
- Top lettuce with tomatoes, red onions, pickles, and shredded cheese.
- Place two smash burger patties into each bowl, breaking them into bite-sized pieces if desired.
- Drizzle with the prepared sauce and serve immediately.
