This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor! It has juicy ground beef, zesty beans, and fresh veggies, all piled high in a bowl for a fun twist on burritos.
Who needs a plate when you can enjoy all your favorite ingredients in one bowl? I love topping mine with cheesy goodness and a little salsa. Yum! 🌮
Making this burrito bowl is super easy! Just cook the beef, mix in your favorite toppings, and dig in. It’s a perfect meal for busy nights or when you want something tasty without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This dish shines with 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat!
Taco Seasoning: A packet is convenient, but I love using homemade seasoning. Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a fresh flavor boost. You can adjust the spices to your taste!
Rice: White rice is common, but brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. Quinoa is another great substitute if you’re after something gluten-free and protein-packed.
Beans: Black beans give great texture and nutrition, but pinto or kidney beans work well, too. If you want to skip the beans, consider adding more veggies instead!
Toppings: For guacamole and sour cream, feel free to use low-fat versions or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. You could even try salsa if you’re looking for extra zing!
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef seems simple, but there’s a little finesse required to make it tasty. First, don’t rush the browning process. Use a skillet over medium heat, and be sure to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
- Let it cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to get a nice brown crust.
- Stir it occasionally until fully cooked, draining any fat if needed.
- Mix in taco seasoning with a splash of water to keep it moist and flavorful.
This ensures even seasoning and a rich taste in every bite! Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper at the end for depth.
How to Make a Ground Beef Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 cup 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
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the beef and prepping the ingredients, then about 20 minutes assembling everything into delicious bowls. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, heat your stove to medium. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s browned. Use a spatula to break the beef apart as it cooks. Once it’s nice and brown, drain any excess fat to keep your dish light and tasty.
2. Season the Beef:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef and pour in 1/4 cup of water. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This will help the flavors mix beautifully while thickening the mixture. Add salt and pepper to taste for extra flavor.
3. Layer Your Bowls:
Grab your serving bowls and start layering! Begin with a scoop of cooked rice as the bottom layer. Then, spoon the seasoned ground beef right on top. Next, add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes in layers as you go. This makes for a colorful and appetizing dish!
4. Add Fresh Toppings:
Top your bowl with a handful of fresh shredded lettuce and some diced red onion for crunch. Don’t forget to add generous dollops of guacamole and sour cream to make it creamy and delicious!
5. Garnish and Serve:
For the final touch, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top and serve each bowl with lime wedges. Squeezing the lime over the bowl just before eating gives it a zesty kick that really enhances the flavors!
6. Enjoy!
Mmm, it’s time to dig in! Enjoy your fabulous Ground Beef Burrito Bowl with friends or family for a fun and tasty meal.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. Simply substitute the same amount (1 pound) of ground turkey for the beef and follow the same cooking instructions. Just be sure not to overcook it to keep it moist!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add extra beans or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the taste when cooking the taco seasoning!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep everything fresh, it’s best to keep the toppings separate from the rice and meat. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the ground beef and store it in the fridge, and you can also pre-cook the rice. Just assemble the bowls right before serving for the best freshness!
