This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a fun and tasty meal piled high with seasoned beef, rice, beans, and your favorite toppings. It’s colorful, filling, and perfect for sharing (or not!).
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for less grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist!
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor, but you can substitute with canola or avocado oil if you’d like. These options also have higher smoke points, making them perfect for frying.
Taco Seasoning: A packet is super convenient, but you can make your own at home. Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder for a homemade version. Adjust spices based on your taste – don’t be afraid to experiment!
Rice: I usually go for brown rice for more fiber, but white rice or even quinoa works perfectly. If short on time, look for pre-cooked rice packs; they’re a lifesaver!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, try kidney beans or chickpeas instead. Canned beans are a huge time-saver, just remember to rinse them well!
Avocado: Mashed avocado is creamy and delicious. If you don’t have one, store-bought guacamole is a quick swap. You can also skip it altogether if you’re not an avocado fan!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Ground Beef?
Cooking ground beef may seem simple, but there are a few tips to get it just right. First, use medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring it cooks through. Keep stirring to break the meat apart evenly. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil in your skillet before adding the beef for best browning.
- Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
- Cook until no pink remains and the meat is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it to avoid a greasy dish.
This will guarantee your ground beef is flavorful and perfectly cooked for your burrito bowl!
How to Make a Ground Beef Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 avocado, mashed (or store-bought guacamole)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes in total, with around 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. You’ll enjoy a delicious and hearty meal that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally and breaking up the beef with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. This means it’s ready to move on!
2. Season the Beef:
If there’s excess fat, drain it carefully. Next, stir in the taco seasoning (either from the packet or your homemade blend). Follow the package instructions—usually, this means adding a bit of water and simmering the mixture for about 5 minutes until everything is well combined and flavorful.
3. Prepare the Rice:
If you don’t have cooked rice ready, you can prepare it now according to the package instructions. This usually takes around 15 minutes, so you can do this while the beef is cooking!
4. Assemble the Burrito Bowl:
Grab a serving bowl and layer the cooked rice at the bottom to form a nice base. Now it’s time to stack on the good stuff: start with the seasoned ground beef followed by the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and shredded lettuce. You can add as much or as little of each item as you like!
5. Add Toppings:
Next, add a generous scoop of mashed avocado or use guacamole if you prefer. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream for that creamy finish.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for added flavor and color. Serve your burrito bowl with lime wedges on the side so you can squeeze fresh lime juice over your meal for an extra burst of zest!
7. Enjoy!
Dig into your Ground Beef Burrito Bowl! Mix in the flavors as desired, and enjoy every bite of this hearty, customizable dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for beef if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just cook them the same way you would the ground beef, and be sure to season well to enhance the flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Rice?
If you want a low-carb alternative, try using cauliflower rice or quinoa. Both options provide a unique texture and flavor while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the components separate if possible. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to Customize My Bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, cheese, or different veggies such as bell peppers. You can also incorporate different beans like pinto or kidney beans for added variety!
