The heart of your burger bowl is the perfectly seasoned and cooked protein. Here’s how to do it for different options:
For Ground Beef, Turkey, or Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil if needed.
In a bowl, mix ground meat with:
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, but adds depth)
Form the meat into small burger patties or crumbles for easier eating.
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side (patties) or until browned and fully cooked (crumbles).
Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes to keep the juices inside.
For Steak, Chicken Breast, or Salmon:
Season generously with salt, pepper, and a dash of olive oil.
Grill or sear in a pan over medium-high heat for:
Steak: 3-5 minutes per side for medium doneness
Chicken: 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked
Salmon: 4 minutes per side until flaky
For a Plant-Based Burger Bowl:
Use a plant-based burger patty (store-bought or homemade).
Pan-sear for 3-4 minutes per side or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until crispy.
If using a black bean or lentil-based patty, handle gently to keep its shape.