Description

This Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious low-carb meal featuring crispy air-fried seasoned red potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, and a flavorful homemade sauce. Topped with shredded cheese, pickles, and fresh lettuce, it’s a perfect bowl for burger lovers seeking a healthier, grain-free alternative.

Ingredients

Scale

Potato Base

3 medium Red Potatoes (can substitute with brown rice)
Olive oil (for tossing and cooking, about 1-2 tbsp)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Caramelized Onions

1 cup Onions (diced)
1 tbsp Olive oil (for caramelizing)

Beef

1 lb Ground Beef (preferably lean for a healthier option)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Sauce

1/2 cup Mayonnaise (adjust for desired creaminess)
2 tbsp Ketchup (use low-sugar if preferred)
1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)

Toppings

1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or Pepper Jack recommended)
1/2 cup Pickles (sliced, adds crunch)
1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens)

Instructions

Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes evenly, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 16-18 minutes until they turn crispy and golden.
Caramelize Onions: While the potatoes cook, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they become soft and golden brown, developing a deep caramelized flavor.
Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high in the same skillet. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to press and smash the meat flat as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and Cajun seasoning until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning according to your preference for desired tanginess and spice.
Assemble the Bowls: Start your bowl with a base of the crispy air-fried potatoes, then layer on the smashed beef and caramelized onions. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over while the beef is hot so it melts slightly. Drizzle the prepared sauce on top, then finish with fresh pickles and lettuce for crunch and freshness.

Notes

For a grain-based alternative, brown rice can be used instead of red potatoes, though the texture will differ.
Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity based on your heat tolerance; add more for extra kick.
Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier and lower in fat.
Mayonnaise amount can be reduced or substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
If you don’t have an air fryer, potatoes can be oven-roasted at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
For vegan adaptation, substitute beef with plant-based ground meat and cheese with vegan alternatives; use vegan mayo.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: smash burger bowl, low carb burger bowl, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, easy dinner bowl, keto burger bowl, Cajun seasoning recipe