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 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups water; 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and hearty, these ground beef rice bowls are a perfect weeknight meal.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:42:41.672Z

These ground beef rice bowls are the ultimate comfort food. Packed with flavor and nutrition, they are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes
Versatile – customize with your favorite toppings
Hearty and satisfying for the whole family

      

A Hearty Family Meal

Ground beef rice bowls are an excellent choice for a nutritious and filling family dinner. Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the vegetables, this dish covers all the bases for a well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable. You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a lighter option. The versatility of this dish allows each family member to customize their bowl with their favorite toppings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of these ground beef rice bowls is their quick preparation time. In just 30 minutes, you can go from prepping ingredients to serving a delicious meal. This efficiency is a game-changer for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a home-cooked dinner.

The simplicity of the cooking process means that even novice cooks can easily follow along. With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll create a hearty dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. This is a recipe that encourages even the busiest of individuals to embrace home cooking.

A Canvas for Creativity

These rice bowls serve as a blank canvas, allowing you to showcase your culinary creativity. Have leftover veggies from the week? Toss them in! Want to add some spice? A splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the dish to new heights. This adaptability means you can enjoy a different flavor profile every time you prepare them.

Consider adding toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or even a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavor and texture. Each addition contributes to a unique dining experience, making these rice bowls a staple recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to time and again.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowls

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups water
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or sauces to customize your bowls!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Stir in diced bell pepper, soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide cooked rice among bowls. Top with ground beef mixture and garnish with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious ground beef rice bowls!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover ground beef rice bowls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them perfect for meal prep, ensuring that you have a hearty meal ready to go on busy days. To reheat, simply microwave in a bowl, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist for best results.

If you want to freeze the mixture, it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for those looking to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also contains vital nutrients like iron and zinc, important for overall health and immune function. By combining it with rice and vegetables, you create a balanced meal rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

The addition of bell peppers and onions not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of your meal. Bell peppers are high in vitamin C, while onions provide antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. Together, they contribute to a well-rounded diet while keeping your family satisfied.

Serving Suggestions

These ground beef rice bowls can be served with a variety of sides to enhance your meal. Consider pairing them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the hearty bowls. A side of pickled vegetables can also add a delightful crunch and tang that balances the richness of the beef.

For a fun twist, you can serve the rice bowls in taco shells or lettuce wraps for a lighter option. This not only changes up the presentation but also adds an element of fun, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Get creative and make it a family build-your-own bowl night!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and rice ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve.

→ What can I add to the bowls?

You can add any vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn, and top with sauces like sriracha or teriyaki.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the ground beef mixture?

Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.