Fully Loaded Burger Bowl: A Tasty Twist on Tradition
Hey there! So, last weekend, I was rummaging through my fridge, trying to whip up something fun for dinner, and guess what popped into my mind? This Fully Loaded Burger Bowl I made a while back! It’s kinda like a burger, but without the bun, and with all the fun toppings you can think of. I still remember the first time I tried this; I was skeptical, thinking, ‘Can a burger without a bun really work?’ Spoiler alert: it totally does!
Why You’ll Love This
I make this whenever I want all the juicy goodness of a burger but without the carb overload (not that I’m against carbs, mind you!). My family goes crazy for this because they can customize their bowls just how they like. Plus, it’s a lifesaver when I have leftover toppings lurking around my kitchen. Oh, and if you’re like me and tend to forget the buns at the store — this is perfect!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, if you’re going for a lighter touch!)
- 1 onion, chopped (any kind, though my grandma swore by red onions)
- 2 cups mixed greens (spinach or arugula work great too)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is classic, but why not get adventurous?)
- 1 avocado, sliced (don’t you just love a creamy avo?)
- Pickles, to taste (I tend to go overboard, but hey, they’re pickles!)
- Sauce of choice (ketchup, mustard, or a fancy aioli if you’re feeling fancy)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Bacon bits or mushrooms (for a bit more oomph)
Let’s Put It Together
- Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper. This is where I usually sneak a taste — you gotta ensure it’s seasoned right!
- Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion. Let it cook until the onions are translucent. Don’t worry if it looks a bit weird at this stage; it always does!
- In your serving bowls, start with a base of mixed greens. This is like building a salad but with more character.
- Top the greens with your beef mixture, then go wild with the toppings — tomatoes, cheese, avocado, and pickles.
- Drizzle on your favorite sauce, and there you have it. A bowl full of burger goodness!
Notes from the Trenches
If the avocado isn’t ripe, don’t force it; it’s just not worth the hassle. Also, sometimes I form the beef into patties instead of crumbling it — gives it that classic burger vibe.
Variations Worth Trying
I’ve tossed in some jalapeños for a spicy kick, and it was a hit. But once, I tried adding pineapple (I know, I know), and let’s just say it wasn’t my brightest idea.
Equipment Needed
A decent skillet is your best friend here. But if you don’t have one, a pot works in a pinch, though the texture might be a bit different.
How to Store It
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. But honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day!
Serving Suggestions
I like to serve this with a side of sweet potato fries. It gives off that classic burger-and-fries feel but with a twist.
Pro Tips
Once I tried rushing the onion cooking step and regretted it because — surprise — raw onions aren’t great. Take your time here; it’s worth it.
FAQs
Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely, just swap the beef for a plant-based alternative. It’s a bit different, but still tasty!
What if I don’t have mixed greens? No worries, use whatever you have — romaine, iceberg, or even kale.
Is this dish kid-friendly? For sure! Kids can pick their toppings, which somehow makes them more likely to eat it!
Feel free to check out Simply Recipes or Serious Eats for more inspiration on burger variations!
