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Close up shot of a Smash Burger Bowl in a white bowl showing the melted yellow cheddar cheese on charred ground beef patties and bright red cherry tomatoes.

Smash Burger Bowl Recipe (The Best Loaded Burger Salad)

This Smash Burger Bowl features crispy charred beef, melted cheddar, and caramelized onions over fresh shredded lettuce. A high-protein, low-carb way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic smash burger in one vibrant bowl.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 2 bowls
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 585
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Smash Burger Protein
  • 8 oz Ground Beef 80/20 fat ratio recommended (225g)
  • 4 slices Yellow Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar melts best
  • 1 tsp Salt For seasoning beef
The Bowl Base & Toppings
  • 4 cups Iceberg Lettuce Finely shredded (approx. 300g)
  • 1 large Yellow Onion Thinly sliced for caramelizing
  • 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes Sliced in halves
  • 1/4 cup Crinkle-Cut Pickles Dill variety
Creamy Burger Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise 120ml
  • 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard 30ml
  • 1 tbsp Sweet Relish 15ml
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika For orange color and smoke

Equipment

  • 1 Cast Iron Skillet Essential for high-heat searing.
  • 1 Burger Press or Heavy Spatula Used to create jagged charred edges.

Method
 

Caramelize the Onions
  1. Heat butter in a pan over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until golden-brown and jammy.
Prepare the Burger Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and smoked paprika until smooth and creamy orange. Set aside in the fridge.
Smash and Sear the Beef
  1. Divide ground beef into four 2-ounce (57g) balls. Do not pack tightly.
  2. Place balls in a smoking hot cast iron skillet. Use a press to flatten completely into thin patties with jagged edges. Season with salt.
  3. Cook for 90 seconds until a dark crust forms. Flip, top with cheddar slices, and cook for 30 seconds more until cheese is melted.
Assemble the Bowls
  1. Divide shredded lettuce between two white bowls. Top each with two cheesy patties, caramelized onions, tomatoes, and pickles. Finish with a thick drizzle of burger sauce.

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best crispy edges.
Place parchment paper between the press and meat to prevent sticking.