Looking for a satisfying, veggie-packed meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor? These Burger Bowls with Caramelized Onion Aioli are everything you love about a juicy burger—reimagined in a bowl! Made with pan-seared hamburger patties, crispy fries, fresh veggies, and a dreamy caramelized onion aioli, this recipe is a weeknight winner. Bonus: it’s customizable for different diets and perfect for meal prep!
What Is a Burger Bowl?
A burger bowl is essentially a deconstructed burger served in a bowl instead of on a bun. Think of it as your favorite burger, but with a fork and loaded with all your favorite toppings and sides.
What You’ll Need
For the Caramelized Onion Aioli:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ large yellow onion, finely diced
- 1½ tsp brown sugar
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80–85% lean)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
For Serving:
- Roasted potatoes or French fries (homemade or frozen)
- Cherry or sliced tomatoes
- Chopped romaine lettuce
How to Make Burger Bowls
1. Make the Caramelized Onion Aioli
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the brown sugar and continue cooking for another 5–10 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and jammy.
If the onions begin to burn or dry out, lower the heat and add a splash of water to the pan.
Transfer onions to a bowl and stir in mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, vinegar, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
2. Cook the Burger Patties
Divide ground beef into 5–6 portions and shape into patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Wipe out the skillet, return it to medium-high heat, and sear the patties for 2–3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your preference.
3. Assemble the Bowls
In serving bowls, layer chopped romaine lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and crispy fries. Add your burger patties and a generous dollop of caramelized onion aioli. Customize with your favorite toppings!
Topping Ideas
- Pickles
- Sliced avocado
- Melted cheese
- Bacon
- Grilled veggies (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant)
- Sweet potato fries
- Baked potato chunks
Recipe Tips & Variations
Make It Vegan:
Use plant-based burger patties and swap in vegan mayo and yogurt for the aioli.
Try Other Proteins:
Turkey burgers, chicken patties, or even seasoned meatballs work well. Don’t want to shape patties? Just brown the meat and spoon it into the bowls.
Customize Your Base:
Swap out romaine for iceberg or spring greens. Use sweet potatoes or roasted cauliflower instead of fries for a lower-carb option.
Storage & Meal Prep
These burger bowls are ideal for meal prep! Store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat. The caramelized onion aioli keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and makes a delicious dip or spread for other meals too.
More Bowl Recipes to Try
- Honey Lime Salmon Bowls
- Sheet Pan Chicken Burrito Bowls
- Blackened Miso Salmon with Cucumber Salad
- Cauliflower Bowls with Pineapple Salsa