This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a fun and tasty meal! It’s filled with juicy ground beef, colorful veggies, and topped with cheese and fresh salsa.
What’s not to love? You can make it just how you like it—maybe add some guacamole because we all know that makes everything better! 😄
I enjoy making this bowl for a quick dinner. Just cook the beef, toss in the veggies, and layer it up. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit with family and friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for less fat. If you’re looking for healthier options, ground turkey or chicken work well too. You can also try plant-based ground meat as a vegetarian alternative!
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought seasoning is convenient, but it’s easy to make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you can control the spice level.
Rice: I like using brown rice for extra fiber and a nutty flavor, but white rice or even quinoa makes a great base too. Feel free to use what you have on hand!
Black Beans: Canned beans are a time saver. If you’re out of black beans, pinto or kidney beans can be good substitutes. Just make sure to rinse them to reduce sodium.
Guacamole: Fresh guacamole is delicious, but store-bought can save time. If you don’t have avocados, you can add some diced green peppers or a layer of salsa instead.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef can be simple, but getting it just right makes a big difference. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a skillet over medium heat to ensure even cooking. Avoid high heat as this can char and toughen the beef.
- Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks to ensure all sides are browned.
- Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it, leaving some for flavor.
How to Make a Ground Beef Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat, carefully drain it from the skillet. This will keep your burrito bowl from being too greasy!
2. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. If your seasoning packet calls for water, add a splash according to the instructions. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors come together nicely.
3. Prepare the Rice:
If you haven’t cooked your rice yet, you can do that now according to the package instructions. If it’s already ready, then move on to the next step!
4. Assemble Your Burrito Bowl:
In a large serving bowl, start layering your ingredients. First, spoon in the cooked rice, then add the seasoned ground beef on top. It’s like building a tasty tower of goodness!
5. Add the Fresh Veggies:
Next, add the black beans, corn, diced cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and shredded romaine lettuce on top of the beef. This will make your bowl colorful and nutritious!
6. Top It Off:
Add dollops of guacamole and sour cream on top. Then, sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor boost! These toppings make everything extra delicious.
7. Serve with a Zing:
Don’t forget to serve your burrito bowl with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the top before digging in for a zesty kick!
8. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to enjoy your homemade ground beef burrito bowl! Mix everything together if you like, or dive in layer by layer. It’s customizable, so feel free to add any other toppings you love!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great lean alternative. Just follow the same cooking instructions, but keep in mind that the cooking time may be slightly shorter as these meats can cook faster than beef. Season well to make sure it has that classic taco flavor!
How Can I Make This Burrito Bowl Vegetarian?
To make this a vegetarian dish, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with an extra can of black beans or some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add tofu or tempeh for added protein.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the toppings like guacamole and sour cream separate to maintain freshness. To reheat, warm the beef and rice mixture in the microwave or stovetop, then assemble your burrito bowls again!
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the ground beef and rice ahead of time and keep them refrigerated for up to 2 days. You can also chop the veggies in advance. Just assemble the bowls right before serving to keep everything fresh!
