Beef Burrito Bowl
If you’re craving all the bold, satisfying flavors of a classic burrito but want something a bit lighter and easier to eat, this beef burrito bowl is your new best friend.
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Serving bowls
- Citrus Juicer
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 1 lb 450g ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or brown rice
- 2 cups water or broth
- ½ tsp salt
Toppings and Extras
- 1 cup black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 medium tomato diced (or salsa)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup guacamole or sliced avocado
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving
- Fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
- Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for about 30 seconds.
- This removes excess starch and helps the grains stay fluffy, not sticky.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rinsed rice with 2 cups of water or broth and ½ tsp salt.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 more minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
- Pro Tip: Keep the lid on the whole time — no peeking! This traps steam and ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Make the Seasoned Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Once hot, add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spatula.
- Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and no pink remains.
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to coat the beef evenly.
- Add ¼ cup of water to loosen the mixture, reduce heat, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Don’t rush the browning! Letting the beef sit undisturbed for a minute or two between stirs helps develop a richer flavor.
Step 3: Prep the Toppings
- Dice the tomato, shred the lettuce, rinse the black beans, and prep the corn.
- Slice the avocado or make guacamole, if using.
- Chop fresh cilantro and cut lime into wedges.
- Warm the beans and corn (optional)
- For a cozy bowl, you can warm the beans and corn in a small saucepan or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
- Add a pinch of salt or seasoning for extra flavor if you'd like.
Step 4: Assemble the Burrito Bowl
- Spoon a generous amount of rice into each serving bowl.
- Layer the seasoned ground beef over the rice.
- Add black beans, corn, lettuce, tomato or salsa, shredded cheese, avocado or guac, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overload one side — spread the toppings out for a colorful, balanced bowl (and a prettier presentation!).
Notes
Nutritional Value (per serving — approximate)
- Calories: 580–650 kcal
- Protein: 28–32g
- Carbohydrates: 55–65g
- Fat: 25–30g
- Fiber: 7–9g
- Sugars: 4–6g