This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a fun and tasty meal! With seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and fresh toppings, every bite is full of flavor.
Create your own burrito bowl and load it with what you love! I always add extra guacamole and a sprinkle of cheese for a yummy finish. Who can resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The main protein in this dish, ground beef gives great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute like lentils or crumbled tofu.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is super convenient. If you want to save money or control the ingredients, make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you can adjust the spice level to your liking.
Rice: White rice is classic, but brown rice adds a nice nutty flavor and more fiber. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can also be used for a gluten-free or low-carb option.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re looking for something different, pinto beans or chickpeas are great substitutes. You could even use a mix of different beans for variety.
Avocado: Essential for guacamole, ripe avocados add creaminess. If they’re hard to find, try using store-bought guacamole or Greek yogurt for a different twist.
How Do You Make Guacamole Easily?
Guacamole is a nice touch to this bowl, and it’s quite simple to prepare. Here are the steps to ensure your guacamole turns out smooth and flavorful:
- Start by slicing the avocado in half, removing the pit, and scooping the flesh into a bowl.
- Using a fork, mash the avocado until it’s creamy but still has some small chunks for texture.
- Add freshly squeezed lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Lime not only adds flavor but also helps prevent browning.
Feel free to mix in diced tomatoes, onions, or spices for extra zing! The key is to adjust the seasoning based on your own taste. Enjoy the process!
How to Make a Ground Beef Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burrito Bowl:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon 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
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/4 red onion, diced
For the Guacamole:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 lime (for juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional lime wedges (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the beef and preparing the guacamole, plus a few minutes assembling your delicious bowl. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is browned and fully cooked. If there’s too much fat, drain it off carefully.
2. Season the Beef:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef, then mix it in well. Follow the package instructions, and add a splash of water if needed to help the seasoning stick. Let it cook a few more minutes to combine the flavors.
3. Prepare the Rice:
If you haven’t cooked your rice yet, do so according to the package instructions. You can use either white or brown rice, depending on your preference.
4. Make the Guacamole:
In a small bowl, slice the avocado and mash it with a fork until smooth. Squeeze in some lime juice, and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. Assemble Your Burrito Bowl:
Start building your bowl with a nice layer of cooked rice at the bottom. On top of the rice, add a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef, followed by black beans, corn, chopped romaine, diced tomatoes, and red onion.
6. Top It Off:
Finish your wonderful burrito bowl with a dollop of guacamole and sour cream right on top. Sprinkle chopped cilantro for that fresh taste, and don’t forget a wedge of lime on the side for a little zing!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in right away! This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is perfect for a tasty meal any day of the week. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options like lentils or crumbled tofu. If you’re using a leaner protein like turkey or chicken, you may want to add a bit of oil to keep it moist while cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’d like a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat while it cooks. You can also include spicy salsa on top when assembling your burrito bowls for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the components separate (like the rice, beef, and veggies) to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep a lot of components ahead! Brown the beef and prepare the rice the day before, and simply assemble your bowls when you’re ready to eat. This is perfect for meal prep or quick dinners!
