This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a tasty mix of seasoned beef, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies. It’s like having your favorite burrito but in a cozy bowl, ready to dig in!
I love how you can top it off with cheese and salsa for extra flavor. Plus, it’s a one-bowl meal that makes cleanup super easy! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient! I like using lean ground beef to cut down on grease while still keeping the flavor. If you prefer, ground turkey or even a plant-based substitute like lentils can work well here.
White Rice: Regular white rice is a great base, but you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Quinoa is a lovely gluten-free option too!
Black Beans: Canned black beans are super easy and quick! You can swap these for kidney beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have on hand.
Corn: Frozen corn is convenient, but canned works just as well. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding roasted corn for a smoky touch.
Salsa: Fresh salsa adds brightness to the bowl. If you can’t find it, diced canned tomatoes with some chopped jalapeños give a tasty alternative.
Guacamole: A must for creaminess! If you’re out, try using a simple avocado mash with lime and salt—it brings the same flavor!
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef may seem simple, but there are a few tricks to keep it juicy and full of flavor:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat—this helps the beef brown without burning.
- Don’t rush! Let it cook for about 7-10 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Break it apart with your spatula for even cooking.
- If using taco seasoning, sprinkle it on halfway through cooking. This lets the flavor soak in without overpowering.
- Drain the excess fat after cooking if necessary; this helps keep your bowl light!
How to Make a Ground Beef Burrito Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup fresh salsa or diced tomatoes
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need about 10 minutes to cook the beef and rice, and then just a few minutes to layer your ingredients in the bowl. It’s quick and super easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, which will take about 7-10 minutes. If there’s too much fat, carefully drain the excess. If you want, sprinkle in some taco seasoning, salt, and pepper while cooking for extra flavor!
2. Prepare the Rice:
If you haven’t cooked your rice yet, now’s the time to do it! Follow the instructions on the package to prepare 1 cup of white rice. If it’s already cooked, you can skip this step.
3. Build Your Bowl:
Grab a nice serving bowl and start with a layer of the cooked rice at the bottom. This will be your delicious base!
4. Add the Toppings:
Now it’s time to pile on the goodness! Begin layering with the cooked ground beef, followed by the black beans, corn, fresh salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, chopped red onion, and cilantro. The more, the merrier!
5. Serve with a Twist:
Finish off your burrito bowl by serving it with lime wedges and a dollop of sour cream on top. The lime adds a fresh zing!
6. Dig In:
Before you eat, you can mix everything together if you like, or enjoy it layer by layer for a fun experience. Either way, enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Burrito Bowl!
## Ground Beef Burrito Bowl FAQs
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as different proteins may need different cooking durations.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the meat and beans separately from the rice and toppings. When reheating, make sure to heat thoroughly to at least 165°F.
Can I Make This Burrito Bowl Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep most ingredients in advance! Cook the beef, rice, and beans, and keep them in the fridge. Assemble the bowl right before serving to keep the fresh ingredients like lettuce and salsa crisp.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re not a fan of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or try a dairy-free sour cream substitute. Additionally, a drizzle of lime crema made from blending sour cream with lime juice and zest could also be a great replacement!
