After a long day, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty meal. Often, my go-to has been traditional burgers, but as I searched for something fresh and exciting, I stumbled upon this delightful Fully Loaded Burger Bowl. Picture this: juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and vibrant veggies all coming together in a colorful bowl, topped with a zingy “special sauce” that elevates every bite.
This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a true crowd-pleaser that transforms classic flavors into a healthy and satisfying meal. With the ease of assembly and a quick cook time, it checks all the boxes for a weeknight dinner that you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Plus, who said you can’t have a burger in a bowl? Join me in discovering how this recipe brings the essence of a classic burger to a whole new level—without the bun, but with all the flavor!
Why Will You Love This Fully Loaded Burger Bowl?
Deliciously Unique: This bowl takes the classic burger and transforms it into a fresh, exciting meal that’s sure to impress.
Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this satisfying dish any night of the week!
Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of seasoned beef, crispy bacon, and creamy special sauce creates a flavor profile that bursts with every bite.
Versatile Options: Customize with your favorite toppings or switch out ingredients for a vegetarian twist—this bowl is all about you!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is a guaranteed hit, making you the star of the meal.
Elevate your dinner routine with this Ultimate Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Creamy Special Sauce, and relish all the deliciousness in every bite!
Fully Loaded Burger Bowl Ingredients
Get ready to dive into a bowl of joy with these simple yet flavorful ingredients!
For the Burger Base
- Lean ground beef – the star of the show, providing that classic burger flavor.
- Garlic powder – adds a delightful kick and richness to the beef.
- Salt – brings out the flavors; the right amount makes a difference!
- Avocado oil – perfect for cooking, it adds a subtle richness without overpowering.
For the Special Sauce
- Mayonnaise – the creamy base that makes this sauce indulgent.
- Ketchup – a sweet and tangy addition that makes the sauce classic.
- Pure maple syrup – brings a hint of natural sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Dill pickle relish – adds a pop of tanginess for that burger-inspired taste.
- Dried minced onion – imparts a depth of flavor that’s essential for a burger experience.
- Crushed red pepper flakes – gives a hint of heat; adjust according to your spice level.
- Salt – enhances the sauce flavor; don’t skimp on this!
For the Toppings
- Avocados – creamy and nutritious, they add a beautiful texture.
- Fresh lemon juice – brightens up the guacamole for a zesty finish.
- Sliced red onion – provides a crunchy bite and sharp flavor contrast.
- Romaine lettuce – adds freshness and a satisfying crunch to your bowl.
- Cherry tomatoes – juicy bursts that add color and sweetness.
- Pickle chips – for that classic dill crunch and flavor.
- Thick-cut bacon – crispy, smoky goodness that ties all the elements together.
Gather these ingredients to create your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl and prepare to delight your taste buds with each delicious layer!
How to Make Fully Loaded Burger Bowl
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Combine: In a medium mixing bowl, add the ground beef, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until fully blended, ensuring every bite will be flavorful. Set aside while you prepare the rest.
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Heat: Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add the avocado oil, swirling it around to coat the skillet. Once hot, carefully add the beef mixture to the pan.
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Cook: Sauté the ground beef, stirring frequently, until nicely browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. As the beef cooks, get your guacamole and special sauce ready.
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Mix Sauce: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, maple syrup, dill pickle relish, dried minced onion, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare Guacamole: In a small bowl, mash the avocados with lemon juice and salt until you reach your desired consistency. This will add a delightful creaminess to your bowl.
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Sauté Onions: Once the beef is done, remove it from the skillet and keep it warm. Return the skillet to medium heat, and lay in the sliced red onions in a single layer. Cook until they are lightly charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Serve: Divide the romaine lettuce among serving bowls as the base. Then, layer one portion of the cooked ground beef in the center of each bowl over the lettuce.
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Arrange Toppings: Surround the ground beef with cherry tomatoes, pickle chips, crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and a generous scoop of guacamole, creating a colorful display.
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Finish: Drizzle your creamy special sauce generously over each burger bowl, and get ready to dig in while it’s still warm!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Fully Loaded Burger Bowl
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for a lean ground beef with a good fat content to keep the burger juicy without excess grease; this makes your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl more enjoyable.
- Avoid Overmixing: When mixing the beef, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a tough texture—just combine until well-blended for perfect tenderness.
- Perfect Guacamole: To prevent browning, cover the guacamole tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface. This keeps it fresh and vibrant!
- Char the Onions: Don’t rush the onion charring process. Cooking them until lightly charred adds a beautiful caramelized flavor that elevates the whole dish.
- Customize Toppings: Personalize your bowl with seasonal veggies or your favorite condiments to make your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl a reflection of your tastes!
Make Ahead Options
These Fully Loaded Burger Bowls are perfect for busy weeknights! To save time, you can prepare the ground beef mixture and the special sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the ground beef with garlic powder and salt, then cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The special sauce can be whisked together and refrigerated as well to allow the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to serve, quickly reheat the beef in a skillet, sauté your onions, and assemble the bowls with fresh toppings like avocado and bacon for a meal that’s just as delicious as the day you made it! Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing flavor!
Fully Loaded Burger Bowl Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful bowl and tailor it to your taste buds!
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Turkey Alternative: Substitute lean ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
Ground turkey absorbs seasonings beautifully, providing a health-conscious twist without sacrificing taste. -
Vegetarian Delight: Replace beef with black beans or a plant-based meat alternative to make it vegetarian-friendly.
This swap brings both protein and texture to the dish while keeping it hearty and satisfying. -
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or diced chipotle peppers to the special sauce for a zesty burst of flavor.
Heat lovers will relish this addition, taking your burger bowl to a whole new level of excitement! -
Creamy Twist: Incorporate Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangy sauce that adds a nutritional boost.
The yogurt offers creaminess without all the calories and is sure to keep you coming back for more. -
Guacamole Infusion: Mix diced mango or pineapple into your guacamole for a sweet and tropical twist.
This unexpected ingredient not only enhances the flavor but also brings a wow factor to your bowl. -
Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon or crumble crispy tempeh as a healthier, plant-based option instead of traditional bacon.
Both alternatives will still give you that satisfying crunch while accommodating different dietary preferences. -
Crunchy Toppings: Add nuts or seeds—like toasted sunflower seeds or walnuts—for an unexpected crunch and a dose of healthy fats.
This adds an interesting texture while complementing the rest of the ingredients beautifully. -
Herbaceous Boost: Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley over the top just before serving for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Herbs not only elevate the dish visually but also enhance the overall freshness of your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl.
What to Serve with Fully Loaded Burger Bowl?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides and accompaniments that perfectly complement this colorful and hearty dish.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These golden fries add a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch, enhancing the burger bowl’s savory flavors.
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Classic Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the burger bowl beautifully.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of charred corn pairs perfectly, providing a delightful contrast to the bowl’s textures.
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Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for mopping up the special sauce, bringing comfort to your meal.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing salad featuring cucumbers in a tangy vinaigrette offers a crisp bite that brightens every forkful.
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Icy Lemonade: A cool, citrusy drink like freshly squeezed lemonade provides a thirst-quenching contrast to the savory depth of the burger bowl.
Enhancing your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with these delightful pairings will create a memorable meal, leaving everyone satisfied and craving more!
How to Store and Freeze Fully Loaded Burger Bowl
Fridge: Keep any leftover Fully Loaded Burger Bowl components in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days. This maintains freshness and flavor without sogginess.
Freezer: For longer storage, the cooked ground beef and guacamole can be frozen. Place them in airtight containers or freezer bags, where they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen beef and guacamole in the fridge overnight. Reheat the beef in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, and enjoy the guacamole fresh.
Assembly Tip: For best results, assemble your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl fresh before serving, adding toppings like tomatoes and lettuce right before you dig in!
Fully Loaded Burger Bowl Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ground beef is fresh?
When selecting ground beef, look for meat that is bright red and has a fine texture. A fresh cut should have minimal dark spots or graying. If you notice any strong odors or a slimy texture, it’s best to avoid it.
What’s the best way to store leftover Fully Loaded Burger Bowl?
Store leftover components in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The ground beef and bacon should stay fresh for about 3 days, while fresh vegetables are best consumed within 1-2 days to maintain their crunch.
Can I freeze the Fully Loaded Burger Bowl?
Absolutely! For freezing, separate the cooked ground beef and guacamole into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Remember to label the containers with the date!
What should I do if my guacamole browns too quickly?
To keep your guacamole vibrant, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, making sure it touches the surface of the guacamole to minimize air exposure. For extra flavor, add a bit more lemon juice; the acidity helps preserve its color.
Can I make this Fully Loaded Burger Bowl vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein or lentils, and adjust the seasonings accordingly. You can also use a homemade or store-bought veggie burger for a delicious, meat-free alternative.
Ultimate Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Creamy Special Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, add the ground beef, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until fully blended, then set aside.
- Warm a large skillet over medium heat. Add the avocado oil and coat the skillet. Add the beef mixture to the pan.
- Sauté the ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Prepare the guacamole and special sauce in the meantime.
- In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, ketchup, maple syrup, dill pickle relish, dried minced onion, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt.
- In a small bowl, mash the avocados with lemon juice and salt until desired consistency.
- Remove the beef, return the skillet to medium heat, and sauté the sliced red onions until charred, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Divide romaine lettuce among serving bowls, then layer cooked beef over the lettuce.
- Surround ground beef with cherry tomatoes, pickle chips, bacon, sautéed onions, and guacamole.
- Drizzle with special sauce and serve while warm.
