Ground Beef Rice Bowls

Name: Ground Beef Rice Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 1 cup corn (canned or frozen); 1 cup black beans (canned, drained and rinsed); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Ground beef rice bowls are a hearty and delicious meal perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:42:40.168Z

Ground beef rice bowls are a versatile and satisfying dish that can be customized with your favorite toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes
Customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces
A complete meal in one bowl, perfect for busy nights

      

A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion

Ground beef rice bowls are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a spicy kick with jalapeños or a refreshing crunch with shredded lettuce, the options are endless. This dish can be enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or dressed up for a gathering with friends and family.

Additionally, the ingredients used in this recipe are commonly found in most kitchens, making it a convenient choice for busy nights. With just a few staple items, you can whip up a hearty meal that satisfies everyone at the table. The simplicity of this dish makes it an excellent option for novice cooks or anyone looking to streamline their dinner routine.

Healthy and Nutritious

One of the standout features of these ground beef rice bowls is their nutritional profile. Ground beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and overall health. Paired with fiber-rich black beans and fresh vegetables like tomatoes and avocado, this meal offers a balanced ratio of macronutrients that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Moreover, using brown rice instead of white can further enhance the health benefits of this dish. Brown rice is a whole grain, packed with vitamins and minerals, and has a lower glycemic index, making it a better choice for those watching their blood sugar levels. By incorporating wholesome ingredients, these rice bowls can easily fit into a healthy lifestyle.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

If you're looking to save time during the week, ground beef rice bowls are an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch of the ground beef mixture and portion it out into individual containers along with rice and toppings. This way, you have ready-to-eat meals that only require a quick reheat before serving.

Not only does meal prepping help you maintain a healthy diet, but it also ensures that you have delicious homemade meals on hand, preventing the temptation of takeout. You can easily customize each bowl with different toppings, keeping your meals exciting and varied throughout the week.

Ingredients

For the Beef

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowls

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
1 cup black beans (canned, drained and rinsed)
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Feel free to add any other toppings you love!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, layer the cooked rice as the base. Top with the cooked ground beef, corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and avocado slices.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and any additional toppings you desire.

Enjoy your delicious ground beef rice bowls!

Storage Tips

To store leftover ground beef rice bowls, allow them to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you want to store the ingredients separately, keep the beef, rice, and toppings in separate containers to maintain the freshness of each component.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked beef mixture. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking. When you're ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef rice bowls are delicious on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate them even further. Consider serving with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for added crunch. You can also offer a variety of sauces, such as hot sauce, ranch dressing, or a zesty lime vinaigrette, allowing everyone to customize their bowls to their liking.

For a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes. If you're feeling adventurous, top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. The goal is to make each bowl reflect your personal taste, making every meal an enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a healthier alternative while still providing a delicious flavor. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check that the meat is fully cooked through.

What toppings do you recommend? Some popular toppings include sliced black olives, shredded cheese, diced onions, or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Feel free to get creative and use whatever toppings you have on hand or that you enjoy the most.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or any vegetables you like.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and rice ahead of time, then assemble the bowls when ready to serve.