Build‑Your‑Own Burger Bowl

A fresh, no‑bun twist on classic burger night. Burger bowls are one of my favorite “I want something delicious but also kind of healthy” meals. And these were amazing. They taste like a full burger experience — juicy beef, crisp veggies, all the toppings — but without the heaviness of a bun. Plus, they’re super customizable, which makes them perfect for picky eaters, busy nights, or anyone who likes their dinner to feel a little bit like an art project. This bowl has all the essentials: seasoned beef, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, tangy pickles, and a simple sauce that pulls everything together. It’s colorful, satisfying, and honestly way easier than shaping patties and grilling outside (especially when it’s freezing or you have homework). Serve with your choice of gluten-free fries for a fun addition to the meal.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Bowls

• 4 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup sliced pickles

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup diced red onion

• Optional: avocado, jalapeños, or cooked bacon bits

For the Simple Burger Sauce - you can make own (recipe below) or do what we did and use Trader Joe's Magnifisauce.

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon ketchup

• 1 teaspoon mustard

• ½ teaspoon pickle juice (trust me)

• Pinch of paprika

Directions

Cook the Beef

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks.

• Once it’s mostly browned, sprinkle in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

• Stir well and cook until fully browned and fragrant.

• Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Make the Sauce or use Trader Joe's Magnifisauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, and paprika.

• Taste and adjust — more ketchup for sweetness, more mustard for tang.

Build Your Burger Bowls

• Start with a base of chopped greens.

• Add a generous scoop of warm seasoned beef.

• Top with tomatoes, pickles, cheese, and red onion.

• Drizzle with the burger sauce.

• Add any extras you love — avocado is always a win.