Ground Beef Burrito Bowls
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Delicious and customizable ground beef burrito bowls that bring the flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant right to your kitchen.
These ground beef burrito bowls are a quick and satisfying meal. Packed with protein and flavor, they're perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Customizable to your taste with a variety of toppings
- Packed with protein and hearty ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat
Easy to Make at Home
Creating ground beef burrito bowls at home is a breeze, making it a fantastic choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal that rivals your favorite Mexican restaurant. The best part? You can control the quality of the ingredients, tailoring each bowl to your personal preferences and dietary needs.
This recipe is designed for convenience, allowing you to cook the beef, rice, and other components simultaneously. With a little multitasking, you'll have everything ready to assemble in about 30 minutes. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Ground beef burrito bowls are ideal for meal prepping, making it easy to plan your meals for the week ahead. Prepare a larger batch of the ground beef and rice, and portion out the ingredients into individual containers. This way, you can grab a bowl on your way out the door or heat one up for a quick lunch at work.
The versatility of these bowls means you can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you want to add extra veggies, switch up the protein, or try different salsas, the options are endless. Preparing a variety of toppings allows for exciting flavors throughout the week, keeping your meals fresh and enjoyable.
Flavorful and Nutritious
Not only are these burrito bowls delicious, but they are also packed with nutrition. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, keeping you full and satisfied, while the addition of black beans and corn provides fiber and essential nutrients. Diced tomatoes and avocado contribute vitamins and healthy fats, making this meal both hearty and nourishing.
By customizing your toppings, you can further enhance the nutritional value. Consider adding sautéed bell peppers for extra crunch, or swapping out cheese for a dairy-free alternative. With so many healthy ingredients, these bowls can easily fit into a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
For the Burrito Bowls
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to add your favorite toppings and ingredients!
Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Rice
If you haven't cooked the rice yet, prepare it according to the package instructions.
Assemble the Bowls
In bowls, layer cooked rice, ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
Add Toppings
Top each bowl with avocado slices, salsa, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious burrito bowls!
Tips for Customization
One of the best aspects of burrito bowls is their adaptability. If you're looking to spice things up, try adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to your bowl. For those who prefer milder flavors, opt for sour cream or Greek yogurt as a cooling contrast to the heat of the salsa. You can also switch out the ground beef for shredded chicken, turkey, or a plant-based alternative for a different protein profile.
Don't forget about the toppings! Fresh ingredients like diced onions, radishes, or lime wedges can elevate your bowl to new heights. Experimenting with different combinations can keep your meals exciting and prevent monotony during your meal prep.
Storage and Reheating
To ensure your burrito bowls remain fresh, store each component separately in airtight containers. Keep the cooked beef, rice, and beans together, while storing toppings like avocado and cheese in separate containers to maintain their freshness. Most ingredients will stay good in the refrigerator for up to four days, making this a practical meal prep solution.
When it's time to enjoy your burrito bowl, simply reheat the beef and rice in the microwave until hot. Add fresh toppings like avocado and salsa after reheating to preserve their texture and flavor. This makes for a quick, satisfying meal that feels just as fresh as the day you made it.
Serving Suggestions
Ground beef burrito bowls can be served as a standalone meal or paired with sides for a more extensive spread. Consider serving them alongside tortilla chips and guacamole for an appetizer or as part of a taco night with friends. Adding a refreshing side salad can help balance out the meal, providing additional veggies and crunch.
For a fun twist, turn your burrito bowls into burritos! Simply fill a large tortilla with all your favorite ingredients, roll it up, and enjoy a handheld version of your delicious creation. This is a great way to mix things up and bring variety to your weeknight dinners.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these burrito bowls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble just before serving.
→ What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute.
→ Are these burrito bowls gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice and beans, this recipe is gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze the burrito bowls?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled bowls, but it's best to freeze them without fresh toppings like avocado.
Ground Beef Burrito Bowls
Delicious and customizable ground beef burrito bowls that bring the flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant right to your kitchen.
Created by: Felicity Grant
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Burrito Bowls
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper.
If you haven't cooked the rice yet, prepare it according to the package instructions.
In bowls, layer cooked rice, ground beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
Top each bowl with avocado slices, salsa, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g