This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is packed with flavor! With tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies, it’s a tasty one-bowl meal that everyone will love.
I enjoy mixing everything together for a fun and colorful dinner. You can even top it with cheese or salsa for that extra kick. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is a classic choice for this dish due to its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, try crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute. I’ve had great success with lentils too!
Taco Seasoning: Taco seasoning packet makes things easy, but it can be high in sodium. I often use homemade seasoning made from chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder. It’s fresh and you can adjust flavors to taste!
Rice: White or brown rice work well, but you can switch it up with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. I love using brown rice for its nuttier taste and added fiber.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are super convenient, just be sure to rinse them to reduce sodium. If you’re not a bean fan, try pinto beans or even roasted chickpeas for a different flavor!
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess, but feel free to use store-bought guacamole if you’re short on time. If avocados aren’t available, some plain Greek yogurt could provide a similar richness.
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef might seem straightforward, but there are a few key steps to ensure it turns out great. The goal is to achieve nice browning while keeping it juicy. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a medium skillet over medium heat. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with the spatula as it cooks.
- Cook until it’s fully browned, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep things from being too oily.
- After draining, sprinkle in the taco seasoning combined with a bit of water, stirring well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld smoothly.
These steps will help you achieve tasty and tender beef for your burrito bowl!
How to Make Ground Beef Burrito Bowl?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 avocado, mashed (or guacamole)
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 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 delicious Ground Beef Burrito Bowl takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. It includes cooking the beef and rice, plus some time for assembling everything together. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, start cooking the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. If there’s extra grease, carefully drain it off.
2. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle the taco seasoning over it. Add some water according to the instructions on the seasoning packet, and stir well to combine everything. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend together.
3. Prepare the Rice:
If the rice isn’t already cooked, prepare it according to the package instructions now. You can use either white or brown rice, depending on your preference.
4. Build Your Burrito Bowl:
Grab a bowl and start layering! First, add a generous amount of the cooked rice as your base. Then, in sections, layer on the seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, mashed avocado, and diced red onion.
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Top your colorful burrito bowl with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that burst of flavor. Don’t forget to give it a little salt and pepper to taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the burrito bowl with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the top just before diving in for an extra zing!
Feel free to customize your burrito bowl with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients like cheese, jalapeños, or salsa. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier substitute. Just ensure to cook them thoroughly until they’re no longer pink, and season well to maintain flavor. You may need to adjust cooking time slightly, as they can cook faster than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Taco Seasoning?
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own! Combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This mix can be adjusted to your preference!
How to Store Leftover Burrito Bowl?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the components separate (like the rice and veggies) to maintain their texture. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water to the rice to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Burrito Bowl Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Use dairy-free sour cream and avoid cheese. For added flavor, use a dash of lime juice in the guacamole to brighten everything up!
