This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a tasty mix of seasoned beef, rice, and colorful veggies, all piled up in one bowl! It’s like a trip to your favorite taco shop, but at home!
Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both delicious and easy to make? I like to load mine with extra toppings like cheese and salsa. It’s fun to customize! 🌯❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (at least 80/20) for less grease. If you prefer, swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Taco Seasoning: A packet is easy, but homemade is fun! Mix cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder for a personal touch. Adjust spices to your taste!
Rice: White or brown rice works well; brown offers more fiber. Quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative and adds a nice texture.
Beans: Black beans are classic, but pinto or kidney beans would work too. Canned beans are convenient—just remember to rinse them to reduce sodium!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor, but if you’re not a fan, try parsley or omit it altogether for a different taste.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can be simple, but a few tips will help you achieve the best flavor and texture. Start with a hot skillet to sear the meat, which keeps juices in. Here are some steps to follow:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
- If there’s extra fat, drain it carefully. This step helps keep your bowl from being too greasy.
- Add taco seasoning and a splash of water to help the flavors blend, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
How to Make a Ground Beef Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 avocado, mashed (for guacamole)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings, allowing you to enjoy a delicious burrito bowl in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Ground Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s too much fat in the skillet, drain some of it out, but be careful not to lose too much flavor!
2. Seasoning the Beef:
After browning the beef, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add a splash of water (about 1-2 tablespoons). Stir everything together well and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the meat is flavorful and thoroughly coated with the seasoning. Taste and add salt and pepper if you like!
3. Assembling Your Burrito Bowl:
Grab some individual bowls. Start by spooning a good base of cooked rice in each bowl. Then, layer on the seasoned ground beef, followed by the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion. You want each bite to be bursting with flavor!
4. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Next, add a generous scoop of mashed avocado on top for a creamy texture (this is your guacamole!). Finish with a dollop of sour cream for tanginess, and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the burrito bowls with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over everything. Mix all the ingredients together before enjoying for a delicious meal! Dive in and savor the flavors of your homemade Ground Beef Burrito Bowl!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just remember that poultry can dry out more quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Adjust the seasoning as needed, as these meats can have a milder flavor.
How Can I Prepare the Burrito Bowl in Advance?
To make this burrito bowl ahead of time, cook the ground beef and prepare the rice, beans, and any veggies you plan to use. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and rice, then assemble your bowl with fresh toppings!
What Can I Substitute for Rice?
If you’re looking for a healthier or gluten-free alternative to rice, try using quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both provide a similar texture and absorb flavors well. Just cook them according to package instructions, and assemble your bowl as usual!
How Should I Store Leftover Burrito Bowls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the components separate if possible to maintain freshness. Reheat the meat and rice before serving, and add fresh toppings like lettuce and avocado just before eating for the best texture and flavor!
