Smash Burger Bowl (Printable)

Crispy smashed beef, fresh vegetables, tangy pickles, and creamy special sauce served over mixed salad greens.

# What You'll Need:

→ Beef Patties

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
02 - 1/2 tsp kosher salt
03 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Vegetables & Greens

04 - 6 cups mixed salad greens
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
07 - 1 cup dill pickles, sliced
08 - 1 avocado, sliced

→ Toppings

09 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 1/4 cup crispy fried onions

→ Smash Sauce

11 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
12 - 2 tbsp ketchup
13 - 1 tbsp yellow mustard
14 - 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
15 - 1 tsp white vinegar
16 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
17 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - Whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
02 - Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and allow it to get thoroughly hot.
03 - Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions and roll into balls. Season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
04 - Place beef balls on the hot skillet. Press each ball firmly with a heavy spatula to smash into thin patties. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms. Flip and cook 1–2 minutes longer until desired doneness. Remove from heat.
05 - Distribute mixed salad greens evenly among four bowls. Arrange cherry tomatoes, red onion, dill pickles, avocado, and shredded cheddar cheese on top of the greens.
06 - Place the cooked smashed burger patties over each bowl. Drizzle generously with smash sauce and sprinkle with crispy fried onions if desired. Serve immediately while patties are still warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You get every single element that makes a burger incredible without the carb coma that follows
  • The crispy beef edges against cool crisp lettuce creates this texture contrast that keeps you coming back for another bite
02 -
  • Getting your skillet hot enough is crucial because that initial sizzle creates the crispy edges that make this special
  • Do not overcrowd the pan or the beef will steam instead of developing that beautiful crust
03 -
  • Pre-slice all your vegetables and toppings before you start cooking so assembly is effortless
  • Warm your bowls slightly in the oven before serving to keep everything at the perfect temperature