Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough burgers. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps prevent them from puffing up during cooking.1 pound ground beef, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the burger patties into the hot skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for about 3 minutes per side. Adjust cooking time for medium or well-done. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate to rest for a few minutes. You can also crumble the cooked beef directly into the bowl if you prefer to skip forming patties (see alternative method in step 5).1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 pound ground beef
- While the burgers are cooking or resting, divide the shredded lettuce evenly among four serving bowls. This forms the fresh and crunchy foundation for your Burger Bowls.4 cups shredded lettuce
- Top the bed of lettuce in each bowl with your cooked burger patty (or crumbled burger if using the alternative method). Next, artfully arrange the diced tomatoes, sliced red onion, and sliced pickles around the burger. Sprinkle the crumbled cheddar cheese generously over the top.4 cups shredded lettuce, 1 pound ground beef, 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup sliced red onion, 1/2 cup sliced pickles, 1/4 cup crumbled cheddar cheese
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and pickle juice (if using) until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This creamy, tangy sauce is the perfect complement to your Burger Bowls! Alternative Step for Crumbled Burgers: If you prefer a crumbled burger texture, after cooking the ground beef in step 2, drain off any excess grease. You can then add the crumbled, seasoned beef directly on top of the lettuce in step 4, followed by the other toppings and sauce.1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon pickle juice
- Drizzle the Special Sauce generously over each Burger Bowl. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!
Notes
These Burger Bowls offer a flavor explosion waiting to happen, packing all the savory satisfaction of your favorite burger into a refreshing and customizable salad. Making these Burger Bowls at home is a fantastic way to save money compared to dining at restaurants, offering a healthier and more budget-friendly option without sacrificing taste. The optional creamy special sauce elevates every bite, adding a decadent touch that's hard to resist.
