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

Cook the fries: 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.

Meanwhile, make the sauce: 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.

Cook the beef: 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.

Assemble the bowls and serve: 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.