Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with “Special Sauce”

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that brings everyone to the table, you’ve come to the right place! My Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce is a family favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back gatherings with friends. It’s a delightful twist on classic burgers, served in a bowl filled with all the goodness you love—think pickles, crispy bacon, and an easy guacamole that adds a creamy touch.

This recipe is not only quick to whip up but also customizable, making it an ideal choice for everyone at your table. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids after school or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this burger bowl is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love building their own bowls with their favorite toppings.
• Healthy twist: Packed with fresh veggies and wholesome ingredients, it’s a satisfying meal without the guilt.
• Make-ahead options: Prepare components ahead of time for effortless assembly during the week.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of savory beef, crispy bacon, and zesty special sauce creates an explosion of taste in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make this burger bowl shine! These items are easy to find and make prepping a breeze.

For the Burger Bowl

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 4 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
• 1 teaspoon avocado oil (or melted refined coconut oil)

For the Special Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise (see Notes)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup (see Notes)
• 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (or 1 tablespoon coconut aminos if on Whole30, see Notes)
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
• 2 teaspoons dried minced onion
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
• 1 pinch salt (more or less to taste)

For the Guacamole

• 2 medium avocados (pit removed, peeled)
• ½ tablespoon fresh lemon juice (juice from approximately half of 1 lemon)
• ½ teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)

For the Toppings

• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 small heads romaine lettuce (leaves only, roughly chopped; approximately 8-9 cups total)
• 1 ½ cups cherry tomatoes (halved; or grape tomatoes, halved)
• ½ cup pickle chips (plus more to taste)
• 8-10 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked, crumbled)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still keeping all that flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in grilled zucchini or bell peppers for an extra crunch and nutrition boost.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute black beans or lentils for the beef for a hearty plant-based bowl.
• Change up the sauce: Try adding sriracha or hot sauce to give your special sauce an extra kick!

How to Make Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by heating up your skillet over medium heat. Add avocado oil and then toss in the lean ground beef. Sprinkle garlic powder and salt over it. Cooking until browned ensures you have juicy beef full of flavor. Remember to break it apart as it cooks!

Step 2: Mix Up the Special Sauce

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, maple syrup (or coconut aminos), dill pickle relish, dried minced onion, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. This special sauce adds creaminess and tanginess that ties everything together perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Guacamole

In another bowl, mash together your avocados with lemon juice and salt. This fresh guacamole brings a bright flavor that complements all those hearty ingredients beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls

Start by layering chopped romaine lettuce at the bottom of each bowl. Next, add your cooked beef followed by red onions and cherry tomatoes. Top with crumbled bacon and pickle chips for that added crunch. Finish off by drizzling on plenty of special sauce and spooning some guacamole atop each bowl.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce! Each bite is packed with flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce

Creating the perfect burger bowl is all about the details, and I’ve got some great tips to help you achieve that satisfying experience every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce not only enhances the flavor of your dish but also adds vibrant colors and textures that make your burger bowl visually appealing.
• Customize your toppings: Don’t hesitate to swap or add toppings to suit your taste! You can incorporate ingredients like jalapeños for a spicy kick or swap the guacamole for a creamy avocado dressing.
• Cook bacon to preference: Whether you prefer it chewy or crispy, cooking bacon just right can elevate the flavor of your dish. Make sure to drain excess grease if you’re aiming for a lighter meal.
• Make the sauce ahead: Preparing the “special sauce” in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it sits, the more delicious it gets!
• Experiment with greens: While romaine lettuce is fantastic, feel free to mix in other greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients and different textures.

How to Serve Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce

Serving this fully loaded burger bowl is all about making it look as delicious as it tastes! Here’s how to present it beautifully and enjoyably.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a lovely burst of color and mild onion flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who love a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños will bring an exciting kick to each bite.
• Fresh cilantro: A handful of chopped cilantro provides a refreshing herbaceous note that balances out the richness of the other ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a great side that offers a touch of sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors in your burger bowl.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette can add an extra crunch and freshness alongside your meal.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn brings summer vibes to your dinner table, making it a delightful companion to this hearty dish.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon juice provides a nutritious option that complements the richness of the burger bowl without being too heavy.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce—it’s sure to become a favorite at your dining table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce is not only a flavorful delight but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover burger bowl components separately in airtight containers.
• Refrigerate the ground beef, guacamole, and special sauce for up to 3 days.
• Keep chopped vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions ready to go for a fresh crunch.

Freezing

• The cooked ground beef can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• It’s best to avoid freezing the guacamole as it may alter its texture upon thawing.

Reheating

• To reheat the ground beef, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
• If you’ve stored your special sauce separately, add it right before serving to keep its freshness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this recipe!

Can I prepare the Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make all the components ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. This way, you can simply assemble your bowls when you’re ready to eat.

What can I use instead of bacon in my Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce?

If you’re looking for a bacon alternative, consider using turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon substitute. They provide that crispy texture without using pork!

How can I customize my Fully Loaded Burger Bowl?

Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, cheese alternatives, or other fresh veggies. The beauty of this bowl is that you can make it your own!

Is the special sauce customizable?

Yes! You can adjust the ingredients in the special sauce according to your taste. Try adding spices or herbs that you enjoy to create your version of this delicious dressing.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also replace mayonnaise with a vegan mayo for a fully vegan version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Fully Loaded Burger Bowl with Special Sauce! It’s not just about satisfying cravings but also about creating something delicious and fun to share with loved ones. Enjoy every bite as you personalize it to suit your tastes. Happy cooking!