why make this recipe
Burger bowls are a fun and delicious twist on traditional burgers. They allow you to enjoy all the flavors of your favorite burger without the bun. This makes them a great option if you’re looking for a lighter meal or trying to eat healthier. The special sauce adds a tangy kick that brings all the ingredients together, making each bite satisfying and tasty.
how to make Burger Bowls with Special Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or plant-based protein alternative
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups fresh lettuce, chopped or torn
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup diced pickles
- ½ cup diced onions (sweet or raw, as preferred)
- 1 avocado (optional), sliced
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Additional pickles
- Paprika or chili flakes for sprinkling
Directions:
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Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef or plant-based protein, seasoning with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices until it is browned and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
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In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. This will be your special sauce.
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Dice the tomatoes, onions, and pickles. Tear or chop the lettuce and slice the avocado if you are using it. Prepare all fresh produce for quick assembly.
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Place the cooked protein at the bottom of each bowl. While the protein is hot, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top so that it slightly melts.
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Add the fresh veggies over the cheese and drizzle generously with the special sauce.
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Garnish each bowl with extra pickles, freshly chopped herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), and a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for added freshness and color.
how to serve Burger Bowls with Special Sauce
Serve the burger bowls warm for a hearty meal. You can offer extra special sauce on the side for those who like more flavor. This dish is great for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed by everyone, whether they prefer meat or a plant-based option.
how to store Burger Bowls with Special Sauce
If you have leftovers, you can store the individual components in airtight containers. Keep the protein, cheese, and veggies separate to maintain freshness. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the protein and cheese before assembling your bowl again.
tips to make Burger Bowls with Special Sauce
- For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite spices to the protein while it cooks.
- You can customize the toppings according to your tastes—add jalapeños for a spicy kick or substitute the avocado with guacamole.
- If you want to make it even quicker, use pre-cooked or leftover protein.
variation
You can easily swap out the toppings in your burger bowl. Try adding grilled mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, use black beans or chickpeas in place of meat.
FAQs
1. Can I make the special sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the special sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the burger bowls are gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free protein alternative and skip any gluten-containing toppings.
3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or any type of cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or pepper jack.