In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 2 patties.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Remove from pan and keep warm.
In the same skillet, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Once done, remove and set aside. Crumble the bacon once cooled.
Layer the bottom of your bowl with chopped romaine lettuce.
Place your cooked burger patties on top of the lettuce.
Add the sliced bacon, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, pickles, and red onion around the burger patties.
Combine mayonnaise and ketchup. Drizzle the special sauce over the entire bowl, if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
Let the meat sit at room temperature before cooking for even doneness and juicier patties.Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook to keep them from drying out.If using bacon, cook it first to use the drippings for extra flavor when frying the patties.Slice the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning too soon.Keep your lettuce and veggies chilled for a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm meat and bacon.Adjust the seasoning before shaping the patties to ensure the flavor is balanced and just right.