Introduction

Enjoy all the rich, savory flavors of a classic burger without the bun in these delicious burger bowls topped with caramelized onion aioli. This recipe brings together juicy seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and a sweet, tangy aioli for a satisfying and healthy meal.

A wooden bowl is filled with four main layers of food arranged side by side on a bed of green leafy lettuce; on the left is a round, browned beef patty with a slightly crispy texture, next to it on the right are golden French fries, then beside the fries are caramelized onion slices with a shiny, dark brown glaze, and finally, creamy white mashed potatoes topped with chopped green herbs and black pepper at the bottom right. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and the overall image has a cozy, rustic feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
6 cups mixed greens or chopped romaine lettuce
2 large tomatoes, diced, or 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large cucumber, diced
½ large red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup dill pickle slices
¼ cup fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and brown sugar, stirring to coat. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until the onions are deep golden brown and jammy.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
Step 3: Remove caramelized onions from heat and let cool slightly. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Fold in the caramelized onions and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Wash and prepare the vegetables: chop lettuce, dice tomatoes and cucumber, and thinly slice red onion. Arrange each in separate bowls.
Step 5: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for 8-10 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Remove the meat from heat and let rest briefly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 7: To assemble, start with a base of lettuce in serving bowls. Top with cooked beef in the center.
Step 8: Arrange diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion slices, and pickle slices around the beef for a colorful presentation.
Step 9: Add a generous dollop of caramelized onion aioli on top, sprinkle with shredded cheddar, and fresh chives. Serve immediately with extra aioli on the side.

Tips & Variations

Use Hungarian smoked paprika for extra smoky depth or regular paprika as a substitute.
Soak thin red onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness if desired.
Make the caramelized onion aioli a day ahead to let flavors develop and store it refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Substitute green onion tops if fresh chives are unavailable.
For leaner bowls, use 85/15 ground beef, though 80/20 provides the best juiciness and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover cooked beef and caramelized onion aioli separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep fresh vegetables separate and add just before serving for best texture. Reheat the beef gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The aioli is best served cold or at room temperature and can be stirred before use if separated.

How to Serve

A white bowl on a white marbled surface holds a colorful meal with several layers. In one section, there are golden brown fries, topped with a creamy white sauce with black pepper sprinkled on it. Next to the fries are two dark brown, grilled meat patties with a rough texture. The side of the bowl has fresh vegetables: bright red tomato slices, some green lettuce leaves, sliced yellow and red cherry tomatoes, and green avocado pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Keep in mind they have less fat, so add a little olive oil during cooking to maintain moisture and adjust seasoning to taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Prepare all components separately and store them in containers. Assemble bowls just before eating to keep vegetables crisp and toppings fresh.