Why These Vegan Burger Bowls Are a Game-Changer

Since perfecting this recipe, I’ve been consistently making these vegan cheeseburger bowls for my meal prep lunches. I’ve experimented with various burger options, including Beet Burger patties and store-bought veggie burgers, but the TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) filling remains my absolute favorite. Its crumbly texture mimics ground beef perfectly, and it absorbs flavors beautifully.

• Budget-Friendly: TVP is a significantly more affordable vegan protein source compared to pre-made vegan burgers and grounds. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a high-protein meal without breaking the bank. Plus, it adapts to any flavor profile you create!
• Customize Your Way: Just like a traditional burger, these vegan cheeseburger bowls are incredibly versatile. Love Caramelized Onions on your burgers? Add them! Prefer Sweet Potato Fries over regular fries? Go for it! The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor the bowl to your exact preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These bowls are ideal for meal prepping. Simply divide all the components into individual containers for a quick and easy, protein-packed lunch throughout the week. The separate containers prevent sogginess and keep everything fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create these protein-packed vegan cheeseburger bowls. For precise quantities and step-by-step instructions, please scroll down to the recipe card.

Potato Wedges Recipe:

• Russet Potatoes: These are the foundation for our crispy potato wedges. Cut them into fries, leaving the skin on for added nutrients and texture (though peeling is optional).
• Olive Oil: Used to coat the potatoes, helping them crisp up perfectly in the air fryer.
• Seasonings: A blend of kosher salt, garlic powder, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor of the fries.
• Cornstarch: The secret to achieving an extra crispy exterior on the potato wedges.

Vegan Cheeseburger Filling:

• Textured Pea Protein: Also known as textured vegetable protein (TVP). Rehydrate it in vegetable broth to add moisture and flavor. This is the key component for a meat-like texture.
• Seasonings: A combination of liquid smoke, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a savory and smoky burger flavor. Consider adding browning for an even deeper flavor profile.
• Oil: Any cooking oil you prefer, used for sautéing the onions and TVP.
• Red Onion: Adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor to the burger filling.

Burger Sauce:

• Greek Vegan Yogurt: Provides a thick and creamy base for the sauce. You can substitute with Vegan Mayo if desired.
• Ketchup and Yellow Mustard: The classic burger condiments! Use a standard yellow mustard, not a fancy Dijon, for the most authentic flavor.
• Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess. If you’re not a fan of sweet relish, finely minced dill pickles work as a great alternative.
• White Vinegar: Provides a necessary acidity to balance the sweetness and richness of the sauce.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper to create a complex and flavorful sauce.

To Assemble:

• Shredded Vegan Cheese: Adds that classic cheeseburger gooeyness. Choose your favorite brand and flavor.
• Greens: Such as lettuce or spinach, to create a fresh and healthy base for the bowl.
• Dill Pickles: Sliced or chopped, they add a crucial tangy and crunchy element.
• Optional Toppings: Sliced tomatoes, red onions, or any other burger toppings you enjoy!

Step-by-Step: Making Your Vegan Cheeseburger Bowl

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious and satisfying Vegan Cheeseburger Bowl.

1. Prepare the Crispy Potato Wedges

• Season the Potatoes: In a bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, kosher salt, garlic powder, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and cornstarch. Ensure the wedges are evenly coated for maximum flavor and crispiness.
• Air Fry: Place the seasoned potato wedges in a preheated air fryer. Cook at 400ºF (200ºC) for approximately 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. The fries should be golden brown and crispy when done. If you don’t have an air fryer you can also bake the potatoes on a baking sheet at 400F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. Craft the Savory Vegan Burger Crumbles & Burger Sauce

• Make the Burger Meat: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the rehydrated textured pea protein (TVP), liquid smoke, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. If using, add the browning sauce for a richer color and flavor. Cook for approximately 5-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the TVP is slightly browned and the flavors have melded together. Set aside.
• Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the vegan Greek yogurt, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Assemble: In a bowl, layer the shredded lettuce or spinach, crispy potato wedges, and savory vegan burger crumbles. Top with shredded vegan cheese, sliced dill pickles, and any other desired toppings, such as sliced tomatoes or red onions. Generously drizzle the creamy burger sauce over the bowl.

Topping & Variation Ideas to Elevate Your Bowl

One of the best things about this vegan cheeseburger bowl is its incredible versatility! There are countless ways to customize it and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Explore Other Vegan Meats: While I love the affordability of TVP, feel free to use your favorite vegan ground meat alternative. Crumbled tempeh or even cooked lentils can also be delicious substitutes. For a more gourmet option, crumble up a homemade vegan burger, such as these Grillable Veggie Burgers.
• Drizzle with Cheese Sauce: For an extra melty and gooey experience, skip the shredded cheese and top your bowl with my Creamy Vegan Queso. It adds a rich and decadent flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
• Turn Up the Heat: If you enjoy a spicy kick, add pickled jalapeños, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Add Vegan Bacon: Craving the smoky flavor of bacon? Crumble some Crispy Vegan Bacon over the top for an irresistible salty and savory addition.

Meal Prep for a Week of Deliciousness

For easy meal prepping, I like to divide the different components of these vegan cheeseburger bowls into containers with dividers. This helps to keep the lettuce and cold toppings separate from the warm ingredients, preventing them from getting soggy. I usually keep the lettuce, pickles, and tomatoes on one side and the burger crumbles and potatoes on the other. When it’s time to eat, simply warm up the burger crumbles and potatoes in the microwave, then combine all the ingredients in a bowl and drizzle with the burger sauce. This method ensures that your vegan cheeseburger bowls stay fresh and delicious throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers for Maximum Freshness

If you have any leftover vegan cheeseburger bowl components, store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should keep for approximately 2 to 3 days. When reheating, try to scoop out the lettuce, pickles, and tomatoes if possible to prevent them from becoming soggy. Microwave the vegan burger crumbles and fries until heated through, then add back the cold ingredients and drizzle with fresh burger sauce.

Explore More Vegan Bowl Recipes

If you enjoyed this Vegan Cheeseburger Bowl, be sure to check out these other delicious and satisfying vegan meal bowl recipes:

• Nourishing Vegan Buddha Bowl
• Vegan Burrito Bowls
• Vegan Sushi Rice Bowl with Sesame Soy Dressing
• Banh Mi Bowl With Rice Noodles