Burger bowls with fries are a fun and tasty twist on a classic meal! Picture juicy burger patties piled high with fresh veggies, all served in a bowl instead of a bun—great for a healthier option.
And let’s not forget the fries! They’re crispy and golden, making every bite satisfying. I love crafting my bowl exactly how I want it—lots of toppings, please! 🍔👍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work too, but they may require more seasoning for flavor.
Fries: Russet potatoes are my go-to for homemade fries due to their starchy quality. If you want a different flavor, sweet potatoes make a great alternative. Just adjust cooking time as they may cook faster.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If avocados aren’t ripe, feel free to use guacamole or omit it entirely. You could also consider using a sprinkle of nuts or seeds for crunch instead.
Spicy Sauce: I love the kick that hot sauce gives to the dish! If you want a milder version, you can use a compliant BBQ sauce or leave out the hot sauce completely.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Fries?
Crispy fries are a must for this bowl, and it’s all about the technique! Here’s how to achieve that golden crunch:
- Cut your potatoes into even sticks to ensure they cook evenly.
- Make sure to soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to reduce starch, which helps in crisping.
- Dry them thoroughly after soaking – moisture leads to soggy fries.
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet and give them space. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping!
- Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
Burger Bowls with Fries {Whole30}
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fries:
- 2 large russet potatoes (or Yukon gold)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Veggie Toppings:
- 1 medium ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Eggs:
- 2 large eggs (fried sunny side up)
Spicy Sauce (Whole30 compliant):
- 1/4 cup compliant mayonnaise (like Primal Kitchen)
- 1 tbsp Whole30-compliant hot sauce or chili sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for cooking, so you’ll be ready to enjoy this delightful meal in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and dry the potatoes well, keeping the skins on for extra crunch. Cut them lengthwise into sticks about 1/2 inch thick. Toss the potato sticks in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until nicely coated. Spread them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for around 25-30 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through for even crispiness.
2. Make the Burger Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix. Shape the mixture into two equal-sized patties. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until they’re nicely browned and cooked to your liking. Once done, take them off the heat and let them rest.
3. Cook the Eggs:
Using the same skillet (reduce the heat to medium), add a little oil if needed. Crack the eggs into the skillet and fry them sunny side up until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny—about 2-3 minutes.
4. Prepare the Spicy Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, hot sauce, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary to get your desired level of spiciness.
5. Assemble the Burger Bowls:
In each bowl, start with a burger patty. On one side, add a good handful of fries. On the other side, arrange slices of avocado, diced tomato, and thinly sliced red onion. Top each burger patty with a sunny-side-up egg and drizzle the spicy sauce generously over everything. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a lovely garnish!
6. Serve:
Enjoy your burger bowls right away while the fries are still warm and crispy. This dish is satisfying and takes the classic burger experience in a new and delicious direction!
Your Whole30-friendly burger bowl with fries brings a delightful, hearty meal without any non-compliant ingredients—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey if you prefer! Just remember that turkey is leaner, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning or some olive oil to keep the patties juicy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The burger patties and fries will keep for about 3 days; just reheat gently in the oven or skillet. Assemble the bowls fresh when you’re ready to eat!
What Can I Use as a Substitute for the Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with a creamy avocado sauce or make a cashew cream by blending soaked cashews with a little lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the burger patties and fries in advance. Just refrigerate them after cooking, and when you’re ready to serve, reheat the fries in the oven for that crispy texture and cook fresh eggs for topping!