Savory Smash Burger Bowl: A Low-Carb Delight You’ll Love Recipe
Introduction
The Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious low-carb alternative to a traditional burger, packed with flavor and textures. Featuring crispy red potatoes, juicy ground beef, caramelized onions, and a creamy Cajun sauce, this dish is perfect for a satisfying meal without the bun.

Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean beef for a healthier option)
- 3 medium Red Potatoes (can substitute with brown rice)
- 1 cup Onions (caramelized for added depth)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or pepper jack recommended)
- 1/2 cup Mayo (adjust for desired creaminess)
- 2 tbsp Ketchup (use low-sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon is a great choice)
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1/2 cup Pickles (adds crunch)
- Optional: 1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens work)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Base: Dice red potatoes, toss with olive oil, and season to taste. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Step 2: Caramelize Onions: Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and sweet.
- Step 3: Cook the Beef: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and smash it down with a spatula. Cook for 5-7 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper, until browned and cooked through.
- Step 4: Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Adjust seasoning or quantities to your preference.
- Step 5: Assemble the Bowls: Start with a bed of crispy potatoes, add the smashed beef, caramelized onions, and shredded cheese. Drizzle with the Cajun sauce and finish with optional pickles and lettuce if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For a gluten-free option, ensure all seasonings and condiments are gluten-free.
- Substitute red potatoes with roasted cauliflower or sweet potatoes for different flavors and textures.
- Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness.
- Try different cheeses like sharp cheddar or mozzarella depending on your taste.
Storage
Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm potatoes and beef in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Reassemble with fresh lettuce, cheese, and sauce before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can roast the diced potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through, until crispy.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to moderate spicy kick but can be adjusted to your taste by reducing or increasing the amount used in the sauce.
PrintSavory Smash Burger Bowl: A Low-Carb Delight You’ll Love Recipe
This Savory Smash Burger Bowl is a delicious low-carb meal that combines crispy air-fried potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, it offers a flavorful twist on classic burger flavors without the bun, making it ideal for those looking to reduce carbs while enjoying bold, hearty tastes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 lb Ground Beef (lean beef for a healthier option)
- 3 medium Red Potatoes (can substitute with brown rice)
For the Toppings
- 1 cup Onions (caramelized for added depth)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Colby Jack or pepper jack recommended)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayo (adjust for desired creaminess)
- 2 tbsp Ketchup (use low-sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 tbsp Mustard (Dijon is a great choice)
- 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste)
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup Pickles (adds crunch)
- 1 cup Lettuce (any leafy greens work)
Instructions
- Prep the Base: Dice the red potatoes and toss them with olive oil and seasoning. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Cook the potatoes for 16-18 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they turn golden brown and develop a sweet flavor.
- Cook the Beef: Increase the heat of the skillet to medium-high. Add the ground beef and use a spatula to smash it down while cooking. Cook for 5-7 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper until the beef is cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, mustard, and Cajun seasoning until smooth. Adjust the seasonings to your taste preference for creaminess and spice.
- Assemble the Bowls: Start by layering the crispy potatoes at the base of the bowl. Add the smashed beef on top, followed by the caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Drizzle the prepared Cajun mayo sauce over the top and finish with optional toppings like pickles and lettuce for additional texture and freshness.
Notes
- Store each component separately to maintain freshness and texture; assemble just before serving.
- You can substitute red potatoes with brown rice to further reduce carbs.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning in the sauce for desired spice level.
- Use low-sugar ketchup and lean ground beef for a healthier meal option.
Keywords: smash burger bowl, low carb, air fryer potatoes, caramelized onions, smashed ground beef, Cajun mayo sauce, healthy burger bowl

