Smash Burger Bowl- Best Easy Recipe

Craving that classic smash burger flavor without the bun? This Smash Burger Bowl is your answer! It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with all your favorite fixings, and delivers all the juicy, cheesy goodness you love in a deconstructed, wholesome meal. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying dinner in minutes!

Ingredients

• For the Smash Burgers:
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
• 4 slices American cheese (or cheddar)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)
• For the Burger Bowl:
• 4 cups mixed greens or shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup dill pickle slices, chopped
• Optional: 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• For the Special Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. 2. Prepare the Burger Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form them into loose balls – do not compress. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. 3. Cook the Smash Burgers: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot. Add olive oil or butter. Place two beef balls in the hot pan. Immediately smash each ball flat with a sturdy spatula or burger press, pressing down firmly for about 10-15 seconds, until very thin.
4. 4. Flip and Cheese: Cook for 2-3 minutes until a crust forms and edges are crispy. Flip the burgers. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside. Repeat with the remaining beef balls and cheese.
5. 5. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the mixed greens or shredded lettuce among four serving bowls.
6. 6. Add Toppings: Top each bowl with cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, chopped pickles, and crumbled bacon (if using).
7. 7. Add Burgers and Sauce: Place one or two cheesy smash burger patties in each bowl. Drizzle generously with the prepared Special Sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!