Save A vibrant and hearty bowl layered with seasoned beef, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, beans, and zesty toppings—a satisfying Tex-Mex favorite perfect for any meal.
I first made burrito bowls for a family movie night, and everyone loved being able to pile on their favorite toppings. It is now our go-to when we want something fun and filling without much fuss.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- Rice: 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice (rinsed), 2 cups (480 ml) water, 1/2 tsp salt
- Beans (and Veggies): 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup (150 g) corn kernels, 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup (100 g) shredded lettuce
- Toppings: 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro (chopped), 1 avocado (sliced), lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat to low. Simmer 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and water absorbed. Fluff with a fork; set aside.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion; cook 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic; cook 1 minute more. Add ground beef, break up with a spoon, cook until browned (5 to 7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season the Beef:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper. Add tomato sauce, simmer 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Other Ingredients:
- While beef cooks, warm black beans and corn in a small saucepan or microwave until heated through.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide rice among four bowls. Top each with seasoned beef, black beans, corn, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, add sour cream, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Save When I make these for my kids, they love putting together their own bowls. It is a fun way to get everyone involved at mealtime.
Required Tools
Large skillet, saucepan with lid, cutting board and knife, mixing spoon, bowls for serving
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, sour cream). May contain soy (depending on tomato sauce and cheese). Avocado sensitivity possible. Always check labels for cross-contamination if needed.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 610 calories, 28 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, 34 g protein
Save This burrito bowl is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy building your bowl with all your favorite fresh toppings!
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What are the main ingredients in this bowl?
Key components include seasoned ground beef, long-grain rice, black beans, corn, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and shredded lettuce, topped with cheese, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by ensuring all packaged ingredients are gluten-free, the bowl fits a gluten-free diet.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Increase or reduce chili powder, or add sliced jalapeños for more heat, to tailor the spiciness to your preference.
- → What substitutions work well for the beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option, and plant-based alternatives can offer a vegan variation.
- → Are there any suggestions for different rice bases?
Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be used as alternatives to white rice for varied nutrition and texture.
- → What cooking tools are needed?
A large skillet for the beef, saucepan for rice and beans, cutting board and knife for prep, plus mixing spoon and serving bowls.