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Savory Keto Smash Burger Bowl Recipe with Pickles and Secret Sauce Made Easy

keto smash burger bowl - featured image

A hearty, low-carb keto smash burger bowl featuring crispy smashed beef patties, fresh veggies, tangy pickles, and a creamy secret sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil or other high-heat oil
  • 4 cups shredded iceberg lettuce (or romaine)
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced
  • 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped chives or scallions
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently by hand for about 3 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
  3. Rinse and shred the lettuce. Dice the tomato and thinly slice the red onion. Arrange in a large bowl or individual bowls.
  4. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  5. Divide beef into 4 equal portions and roll each into a ball. Place one ball in the hot skillet and smash down firmly with a spatula to about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with remaining balls, cooking 2-3 at a time.
  6. Cook patties without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip carefully, add cheddar cheese if using, and cook 1-2 more minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
  7. Assemble the bowl by placing cooked patties over the lettuce and tomato mixture. Top with sliced pickles, drizzle secret sauce, and sprinkle chopped chives or scallions.
  8. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Use cold beef for easier handling and better texture. Avoid pressing patties after initial smash to retain juiciness. The secret sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated. For dairy-free, omit cheese and use vegan mayo. For vegetarian, use plant-based ground meat alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, smash burger, low-carb, burger bowl, secret sauce, pickles, easy dinner, keto recipe