Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with “Special Sauce”

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that brings all the flavors of a classic burger into a bowl, then you’re in for a treat with this Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce! This is one of my absolute favorites because it’s versatile enough to please the whole family. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering, this burger bowl always hits the spot. Plus, it’s an easy way to enjoy all those beloved burger toppings without the fuss of buns!

What makes this recipe even more special is the homemade special sauce that adds a delightful tang to every bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this meal even on the busiest nights.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of flavors and textures makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the ingredients in advance for an effortless assembly when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Flavorful: Each component—from the seasoned beef to the creamy sauce—offers mouthwatering goodness in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. You’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen or at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Burger Bowl

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
• 1 teaspoon avocado oil (or melted refined coconut oil)

For the Special Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise (see Notes)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (see Notes)
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (or 1 tablespoon coconut aminos if on Whole30, see Notes)
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
• 2 teaspoons dried minced onion
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
• 1 pinch salt (more or less to taste)

For the Guacamole

• 2 medium avocados (pit removed, peeled)
• ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice (juice from approximately half of 1 lemon)
• ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)

For Toppings

• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 small heads romaine lettuce (leaves only, roughly chopped; approximately 8-9 cups total)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved; or grape tomatoes, halved)
• ½ cup pickle chips (plus more to taste)
• 8-10 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked, crumbled)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Top your burger bowl with jalapeños or hot sauce if you’re craving some heat.
• Go dairy-free: Replace mayonnaise with an avocado-based dressing for a creamy twist without dairy.

How to Make Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by making your special sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, maple syrup, dill pickle relish, dried minced onion, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix well until smooth. This sauce adds tangy creaminess that brings all the components together!

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add avocado oil and allow it to warm up. Then add your ground beef along with garlic powder and salt. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Breaking up the beef as it cooks helps ensure even seasoning and texture.

Step 3: Make Guacamole

While your beef is cooking, prepare your guacamole. In a separate bowl, mash together avocados with lemon juice and salt until creamy but still chunky. A little citrus not only enhances flavor but also prevents browning!

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Now comes the fun part! In each serving bowl, layer chopped romaine lettuce as your base. Top with cooked ground beef, guacamole, sliced red onions, cherry tomatoes, pickle chips, and crumbled bacon. Drizzle generously with your special sauce for that finishing touch.

And there you have it—your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce

Creating the perfect burger bowl is all about the little details, so here are some pro tips to ensure your dish is a smashing success!

• Choose lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef not only reduces fat but also allows the flavors of your toppings and special sauce to shine through without being overwhelmed by greasiness.
• Customize your special sauce: Feel free to adjust the ingredients in the special sauce to suit your taste. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika can give it a unique twist that sets your burger bowl apart.
• Prep ahead: If you’re short on time, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. Chopping vegetables and making the sauce a day before can save time on busy weeknights and make assembly a breeze.
• Use fresh toppings: Fresh toppings like crisp lettuce and ripe avocados not only enhance flavor but also add important nutrients that round out this delicious meal.
• Get creative with add-ins: Don’t be afraid to add other favorite toppings such as jalapeños, olives, or even corn. These additions can bring new textures and flavors to your fully loaded burger bowl!

How to Serve Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce

Presenting your fully loaded burger bowl can turn an ordinary meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas for serving this savory dish that will impress both family and friends!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Crumbled dairy-free feta: This adds creaminess and tanginess that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients in the bowl.
• Sliced green onions: A handful of sliced green onions provides a nice crunch and sharpness that complements the richness of the burger bowl.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a fantastic side that offers a slight sweetness, balancing out the savory elements of the burger bowl.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and brightness, making it an ideal accompaniment.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide extra fiber and nutrients while adding depth to your meal.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing can serve as a nutritious side that complements the flavors in your burger bowl beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that’s sure to become a favorite! Enjoy every bite of your fully loaded burger bowl with special sauce, knowing you’ve crafted something truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce is perfect for meal prep, making it not only a delicious dinner option but also a time-saver for busy weekdays. You can easily prepare components in advance and enjoy them throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover burger bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the special sauce separate to maintain its freshness.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal taste.

Freezing

• You can freeze the cooked ground beef mixture if you have leftovers.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing excess air before sealing.
• Use within 2-3 months for best flavor; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat, warm the ground beef mixture on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it to retain moisture.
• Add fresh toppings like avocado and lettuce after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out.

Can I make the Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply ensure that all sauces, including mayonnaise and ketchup, are gluten-free.

What can I use instead of bacon in the Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce?

For a bacon alternative, consider using turkey bacon or crispy chickpeas for a crunchy texture without meat.

How do I customize my Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as jalapeños, different cheese alternatives, or even sautéed mushrooms to personalize your bowl!

Is this burger bowl suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce is great for meal prep. Just store components separately to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavors that will leave you satisfied and happy. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing it with loved ones, I invite you to give this recipe a try. Happy cooking!