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Loaded Smash Burger Bowl Healthy Dinner Ideas

Loaded Smash Burger Bowl Healthy Dinner Ideas

This Loaded Smash Burger Bowl Healthy Dinner Ideas features crispy-edged beef patties, tangy special sauce, and fresh toppings for a high-protein meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Burger Base
  • 1.5 lb ground beef 80/20 preferred
  • 1 tsp salt sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper coarse ground
  • 1 tsp garlic powder dried
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese sharp
Bowl Components
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce shredded
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 0.5 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 0.5 cup dill pickles sliced rounds
Smash Sauce
  • 0.5 cup mayonnaise avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp yellow mustard classic
  • 1 tbsp dill pickle juice tart
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika for color

Equipment

  • Cast Iron Skillet
  • Sturdy Spatula
  • Mixing bowls
  • Chef Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Prepare the Components
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, pickle juice, and smoked paprika to create the signature smash sauce.
  2. Divide the ground beef into 8 equal-sized balls, keeping them loose and avoiding overworking the meat.
  3. Prepare the vegetable base by distributing shredded romaine, tomatoes, onions, and pickles into four large serving bowls.
Smash and Sear
  1. Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat until lightly smoking, then place beef balls onto the dry pan.
  2. Use a heavy spatula to press each ball completely flat until very thin, seasoning the tops generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. Sear for 2 minutes until the edges are dark brown and crispy, then flip and immediately top with half a slice of cheddar cheese.
  4. Cook for 1 more minute until the cheese is melted and the beef is fully cooked through.
  5. Place two crispy patties into each prepared bowl and drizzle with the smash sauce before serving.

Notes

For the best texture, ensure your skillet is screaming hot before adding the beef to achieve those signature crispy edges. Store the sauce and beef separately from the fresh vegetables if meal prepping for later in the week.