Burger bowls with fries are a fun and tasty meal! You’ll get all the burger goodness with fresh toppings, all served in a bowl. Plus, crispy fries make it even better!
This dish is perfect for meal prep too. I love how easy it is to switch up the toppings each time. If I’m feeling wild, I might even add some avocado or jalapeños. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using grass-fed beef as it tends to have better flavor and nutrients. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian choice, consider using a plant-based meat substitute.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are perfect for fries, but sweet potatoes are a delicious alternative if you want to mix things up! They’ll add a slightly different flavor and texture while staying Whole30 compliant.
Red Cabbage: This adds a nice crunch, but green cabbage or even shredded carrots can work well too, depending on what you have on hand. The color of red cabbage is a great pop for the bowl!
Avocado: I love adding avocado for creaminess. If you don’t have any, a dollop of compliant guacamole could be a nice touch, or simply skip it if you’re out.
Mayonnaise: Make sure to use a Whole30 approved mayo. If you want something different, you can also try a tahini dressing, which adds a unique flavor.
How Do I Make Perfectly Crispy Fries?
Getting those fries crispy can be tricky! The key is in the preparation and cooking method.
- Start with washed and cut potatoes – keep the skin for added texture!
- Make sure to coat the fries evenly with olive oil and seasonings. This helps them brown nicely.
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to soggy fries.
- Flipping halfway through is crucial for even cooking. This ensures both sides get nice and crispy.
Keep an eye on them at the end. Ovens can vary, so they might need a couple extra minutes to achieve that golden brown finish!
Burger Bowls with Fries {Whole30}
Ingredients:
- For the Bowls:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably grass-fed)
- 1/2 small red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or green onion, finely chopped, for garnish
- Optional: Lime wedges for serving
- For the Fries:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (compliant with Whole30)
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (Whole30 compliant, no added sugar)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (Whole30 compliant)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and approximately 30 minutes for cooking. With both the fries and the burger patties cooking at the same time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash the russet potatoes well and cut them into fry shapes, leaving the skin on for added texture. In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, adding salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure every fry is well coated! Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they’re crispy and golden brown.
2. Make the Burger Patties:
While the fries are baking, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form the beef into 4 equally-sized patties. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Once they’re done, remove them from the skillet and keep warm.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This creamy sauce is a scrumptious Whole30-friendly addition to your burger bowls!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Take 4 bowls and start by dividing the crispy fries evenly among them, placing the fries around the edge of each bowl. Next, add a portion of the sliced red cabbage to each bowl, then place a cooked burger patty in the center of each. Drizzle the prepared sauce generously over the burgers, then add avocado slices and cherry tomatoes (or roasted red peppers) on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh chives or green onions for garnish!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious burger bowls immediately, with optional lime wedges on the side for that fresh zing! These bowls are a great way to enjoy all the flavors of a burger meal, minus the bun, all while staying true to your Whole30 journey!
Can I Use Another Type of Meat for the Burger Patties?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure any substitutes also fit Whole30 guidelines.
Can I Make the Fries Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the fries in advance! Slice the potatoes and soak them in water to prevent browning. You can then bake them just before serving for that fresh, crispy texture. Leftover fries can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp back up!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can use avocado mashed up for creaminess, or blend tahini with a bit of lemon juice and water for a different flavor profile that’s still Whole30 compliant!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The burger patties can last for up to 3 days, while the fries are best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal crispiness. Reheat them in the oven to help restore their crunch!