This Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a delightful one-dish meal! It’s packed with tender beef, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice that all come together for a tasty bite.
Who knew dinner could be this simple and pleasing? I love how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can mix it up with your favorite veggies! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option but feel free to use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. They work well and still offer great flavor.
Red Bell Pepper: Red peppers add sweetness, but green, yellow, or orange peppers can be substituted based on what you have. They’re all delicious and colorful!
Cooked White Rice: While I use white rice, brown rice or jasmine rice can add a nutty taste and extra fiber. Cauliflower rice also makes a low-carb alternative.
Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, use tamari instead. Coconut aminos are a nice sweeter alternative as well.
Hoisin Sauce: Optional but adds a nice touch of sweetness. You can skip it or use a dash of honey mixed with soy sauce instead.
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef correctly is key for this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a large skillet to provide enough space for the beef to brown evenly.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.
- Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces with a spatula.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s browned all over. Remember to drain excess fat, but don’t overdo it as some fat adds flavor.
- Lastly, add minced garlic and ginger for another minute – that’s where the tantalizing aroma comes from!
Following these steps ensures your beef is perfectly cooked and flavorful. Happy cooking!
Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (a mix of black and white if available)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl takes about 25 minutes in total to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, simple, and ready for your busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
First, cook the white rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, keep it warm on the stove or cover it to retain heat while you prepare the beef and peppers.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it from the skillet.
3. Add Aromatics:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Cook everything together for about 1 minute, until fragrant. This step brings so much flavor to your dish!
4. Incorporate the Peppers:
Add the diced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes. You want them tender but still a little crisp. This gives a lovely texture to your rice bowl!
5. Flavor It Up:
Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Stir everything together to mix well and let it heat through for another minute.
6. Season:
Finally, season your beef and pepper mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference!
7. Serve:
Now it’s time to dish up! Serve the beef and pepper mixture over a generous scoop of warm cooked rice. This hearty meal is sure to satisfy!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off by garnishing your bowl with sliced green onions and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top. It adds a wonderful touch to your rice bowl!
Enjoy your flavorful and quick beef and pepper rice bowl! It’s a tasty and satisfying dinner option that’s easy to make. 🍚
FAQ for Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great option and adds extra fiber. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions, as it may take longer than white rice to prepare.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well. Vegetarian alternatives like tempeh or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat can also be used for a plant-based version!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet or the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking, and adjust cooking times as needed so they remain tender-crisp.
