If you’re craving all the satisfying flavors of a classic burger but want to keep things light and low-carb, these Burger Bowls with Caramelized Onion Aioli Recipe are going to become your new favorite meal. Imagine juicy, well-seasoned ground beef nestled over crisp romaine and topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy avocado, sharp cheddar, tangy pickles, and that dreamy, savory aioli made from slowly caramelized onions. It’s like all the best parts of a burger, but served in a bowl, making it perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or anytime you want a flavorful, bun-free twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these burger bowls just right means choosing the perfect blend of fresh, simple ingredients that bring texture, color, and bold flavors to the table. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s the richness of the beef or the brightness of the fresh veggies.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean): Provides juicy, flavorful protein for the bowls.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the beef’s natural flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a bold, savory depth to the meat.
- 4 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens: Creates a crisp, fresh base that adds great crunch.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Adds creamy texture and healthy fats.
- ½ red onion, sliced: Offers a sharp, slightly sweet bite that complements the burger.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a rich, tangy flavor.
- ¼ cup dill pickle slices: Provides a tangy crunch that brightens every bite.
- For the caramelized onion aioli:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to slowly caramelize the onions, unlocking their sweetness.
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced: Turns golden and tender to build the aioli’s deep flavor.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base of the aioli.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a little tang and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the aioli, balancing the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Finishes off the aioli, ensuring perfect seasoning.
How to Make Burger Bowls with Caramelized Onion Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions and cook them slowly for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and to encourage even browning. The onions will transform into a deep golden, soft, and sweet base that forms the heart of the caramelized onion aioli.
Step 2: Prepare the Caramelized Onion Aioli
Once the onions are caramelized and slightly cooled, chop them finely. In a small bowl, combine these chopped onions with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated. This creamy aioli will elevate the burger bowls with its rich, savory-sweet flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Season the ground beef evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. You can form the beef into four small patties or cook it crumbled, depending on your preference. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes until the meat is nicely browned and cooked through. This juicy beef is the hearty centerpiece of these burger bowls.
Step 4: Assemble the Burger Bowls
Divide the chopped romaine or mixed greens evenly between four bowls. Top each with the cooked beef, halved cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and dill pickle slices. To finish, drizzle each bowl generously with the luscious caramelized onion aioli. Serve immediately and get ready to dig into that amazing blend of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Burger Bowls with Caramelized Onion Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
To make your burger bowls pop even more, consider sprinkling chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A dash of smoked paprika on top can also add a subtle smoky note that pairs beautifully with the caramelized onion aioli. These little touches enhance both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This burger bowl pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like roasted sweet potatoes, crispy zucchini fries, or even a refreshing cucumber salad. Each option complements the hearty bowls without overpowering their bold taste.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, layer the ingredients in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and textures. You can also serve components separately in small bowls for a DIY assembly experience at the table—perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers where everyone loves customizing their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked beef and the chopped veggies in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the caramelized onion aioli in a small jar or container to maintain its flavor and texture. This way, everything stays fresh and ready to assemble later.
Freezing
The cooked beef can be frozen for up to three months, but avoid freezing the fresh vegetables and aioli, as their texture and flavor might be compromised. For quick meals later, freeze the beef in portioned bags, then thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat the beef gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling your burger bowls again. Avoid reheating the aioli; instead, stir it well and serve cold for that perfect creamy contrast. Fresh veggies should always be added after reheating for the best crunch and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner alternative and will still absorb the delicious seasoning and pair beautifully with the caramelized onion aioli.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes, simply skip the shredded cheddar cheese and use a dairy-free mayonnaise for the aioli to keep the dish dairy-free while maintaining its creamy, bold flavor.
How long does the caramelized onion aioli keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the caramelized onion aioli will stay fresh for up to one week. Its flavors often deepen after a day or two, so feel free to make it ahead!
Can I prepare this recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! Keep all components stored separately in the fridge and assemble your bowls just before eating to keep everything fresh and delicious.
What can I substitute for pickles if I don’t have them?
You can use capers, sliced banana peppers, or even a splash of vinegar-based slaw for that bright, tangy bite that pickles provide.
Final Thoughts
These Burger Bowls with Caramelized Onion Aioli Recipe offer all the flavors you love from a traditional burger but in a fresh, vibrant bowl that feels lighter and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal that impresses with minimal effort, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Give it a try—you might just find yourself coming back to it again and again!
Print
Burger Bowls with Caramelized Onion Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low-Carb, Gluten Free
Description
These burger bowls with caramelized onion aioli offer a delicious, low-carb alternative to the traditional burger. Featuring juicy ground beef served atop fresh romaine or mixed greens and topped with cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, cheddar cheese, and pickles, this meal is elevated by a creamy, savory homemade caramelized onion aioli. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anyone craving the rich flavors of a burger without the bun.
Ingredients
For the Burger Bowls
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ red onion, sliced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup dill pickle slices
For the Caramelized Onion Aioli
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced yellow onions and cook slowly for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply golden and soft. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Aioli: Finely chop the caramelized onions. In a small bowl, combine the chopped onions with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well incorporated, then set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Season the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Form the beef into 4 small patties or leave as crumbles. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties or crumbles for about 6 to 8 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Assemble the Burger Bowls: Divide the chopped romaine or mixed greens evenly among four bowls. Top each with cooked beef, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, sliced red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and dill pickle slices.
- Add the Aioli and Serve: Drizzle each bowl generously with the prepared caramelized onion aioli. Serve immediately for a fresh, satisfying low-carb meal.
Notes
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner protein alternative.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the cheddar cheese and use a dairy-free mayonnaise.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prepping; store the components separately and assemble bowls just before eating to maintain freshness.
