Ground Beef Rice Bowls

Name: Ground Beef Rice Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and hearty ground beef rice bowls that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:21:29.732Z

Ground beef rice bowls are a comforting and satisfying meal option that brings together seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for hungry appetites
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings

      

A Flavorful Meal in Minutes

Ground Beef Rice Bowls are the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve in about 30 minutes. This recipe allows you to enjoy the robust flavors of seasoned ground beef paired with fluffy rice, making it a comforting dish that everyone will love.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer brown rice, quinoa, or a different protein, the base of the dish remains versatile and accommodating. Feel free to experiment with spices or additional veggies to make it your own!

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef is not only delicious but also a great source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair. It provides important nutrients like iron and zinc, which are crucial for overall health. When combined with the fiber-rich beans and fresh vegetables in this recipe, you create a balanced meal that keeps you full and satisfied longer.

Adding toppings like avocado and fresh cilantro not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal. Avocados are packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, while cilantro adds a refreshing touch and is known for its detoxifying properties. This meal isn't just filling; it's a wholesome choice for you and your family.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Ground Beef Rice Bowls are an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe and portion it out for the week ahead. Store the components separately to maintain freshness, and simply reassemble the bowls when you're ready to eat. This not only saves time but also helps you stick to your healthy eating goals.

When meal prepping, consider varying your toppings throughout the week. One day, you might add salsa and jalapeños for a kick, while another day could feature sour cream and green onions. This keeps your meals exciting and prevents boredom, making it easier to enjoy nutritious food every day.

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice and Toppings

2 cups cooked white rice
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Feel free to add any additional toppings you love!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.

Prepare the Rice

While the beef is cooking, prepare the rice according to package instructions if not using pre-cooked rice.

Assemble the Bowls

In a bowl, layer the cooked rice, followed by the beef mixture, corn, black beans, avocado, and cheese. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious ground beef rice bowls!

Serving Suggestions

These Ground Beef Rice Bowls are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to fit various tastes and occasions. For a Mexican-inspired twist, consider adding pico de gallo, sour cream, or guacamole. If you prefer an Asian flair, top your bowls with sesame seeds and a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki glaze. The possibilities are endless, making this dish suitable for any palate.

You can also serve these bowls alongside a fresh garden salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch. Pairing with a simple beverage, like iced tea or sparkling water, can elevate your meal experience, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and entertaining guests.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store each component of the Ground Beef Rice Bowls in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the ingredients. Properly stored, your leftovers should last for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to keep the toppings separate until you're ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

When reheating, it's best to warm the beef and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For added freshness, consider topping with freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving. This small touch can bring your meal back to life and enhance its flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative!

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or textured vegetable protein.

→ What can I use instead of rice?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and rice in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.