This Easy Healthy Burger Bowl is a fun and tasty twist on a classic burger! It features mouthwatering ground meat, fresh veggies, and your favorite toppings, all in one bowl.
It’s a great way to enjoy burger flavors without the bun! I love mixing in avocado and a drizzle of sauce for that extra kick. Plus, you can customize it however you like—how cool is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: I prefer lean ground beef for its flavor, but ground turkey is a lighter option. Great for cutting calories! If you want a plant-based version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Potatoes for Fries: I use regular potatoes, but sweet potatoes can add a nice twist and are packed with nutrients. Just keep the cooking time the same. You could also use frozen fries if you’re short on time!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic topping for burger bowls. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, try using dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Special Sauce: The sauce can be modified based on your taste. Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. You can also add some honey or sriracha for sweetness or heat!
What’s the Best Way to Get Crispy Oven Fries?
Cooking perfect oven fries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside requires a couple of tricks. Start with drying the potato wedges well after cutting them; this helps remove excess moisture, which is key for crispiness.
- Toss the potato wedges in olive oil and salt to coat evenly.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a single layer; overcrowding the pan steams the fries instead of roasting them!
- Turn the fries halfway through baking time for uniform cooking and browning.
Easy Healthy Burger Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sliced dill pickles
For the Fries:
- 2 medium potatoes, cut into wedges or fries
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp paprika (for fries)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for fries)
- Salt and pepper (for fries)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Optional: a few dashes of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 35-40 minutes total. Expect about 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for cooking while you multitask. It’s quick and simple, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they are crispy and golden brown.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the fries are baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your lean ground beef or ground turkey to the skillet, using a spatula to break it up. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for about 6-8 minutes or until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat before proceeding.
3. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix it all together until smooth. Feel free to add a few dashes of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you like!
4. Assemble the Burger Bowls:
In serving bowls, divide the chopped romaine lettuce evenly. On top of the lettuce, add a generous scoop of the cooked ground beef, followed by your crispy fries. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and add sliced dill pickles as you like.
5. Drizzle with Sauce:
Finish off your burger bowls by drizzling the special sauce over everything. This brings all the flavors together beautifully!
6. Serve Immediately:
Dig in and enjoy your delicious Easy Healthy Burger Bowl! It’s packed with all the flavors of a burger without the bun, making for a healthy and satisfying meal!
FAQ for Easy Healthy Burger Bowls
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option that will work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to check the seasoning as turkey can have a milder flavor compared to beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
To make it vegetarian or vegan, substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative like Beyond Meat. For the sauce, use a vegan mayo or Greek yogurt alternative to keep it dairy-free!
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
You can personalize your burger bowls with various toppings! Consider adding avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the components (meat, fries, and veggies) separate to maintain their textures. Reheat everything gently in the microwave or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy!
