These Budget-Friendly, 30-Minute Burger Bowls Are Even Better Than Takeout

Instructions

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1. 1 Bake or air fry the french fries according to the package directions. If baking, spread the fries into an even layer on a baking sheet and bake until crisp and lightly browned, typically 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once during cooking.
2. 2 While the fries are cooking, in a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, pickle juice, ketchup, mustard, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and a few drops of Worcestershire sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed. Set aside.
3. 3 Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula or meat chopper , until it's in small crumbles and partly browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the salt, pepper, onion powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon paprika and stir everything together. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat, if needed, then cover and keep warm while you prepare the toppings.
4. 4 Divide the hot fries among four serving bowls. Add a generous scoop of seasoned beef to each bowl. Nestle in the lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, red onions, cheese, or your other favorite burger toppings. Drizzle with the reserved sauce and extra ketchup, if desired, and serve immediately. Like a fast food order you pick up at the drive-through, burger bowls are best eaten fresh—especially the fries. But you can store everything else in individual airtight containers in the fridge. The beef will keep for 2 to 3 days and can be reheated gently in a skillet or in the microwave. The burger sauce will keep well for 1 to 2 weeks; just give it a stir before using. Lastly, store the toppings separately and assemble the bowls just before serving to maintain the best texture. Love the recipe? Leave us stars and a comment below!