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 pound ground beef; 1 cup rice (white or brown); 2 cups water or beef broth; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and hearty ground beef rice bowls that are quick and easy to make for a satisfying meal.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:45:39.607Z

These ground beef rice bowls are a family favorite, combining savory beef with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, they're both nutritious and satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A complete meal in one bowl
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite toppings

      

A Complete Meal in One Bowl

Ground beef rice bowls are the epitome of comfort food, offering a complete meal in just one dish. With a hearty serving of protein from the ground beef, fiber from the rice, and essential vitamins from the colorful bell peppers, this dish provides balanced nutrition without the need for multiple sides. It's perfect for families or anyone looking for a satisfying meal that doesn't require extensive preparation.

Not only is this dish filling, but it also allows for easy portion control. You can adjust the ingredients based on your appetite or dietary needs, making it a versatile option for various lifestyles. Whether you're looking to indulge or keep it light, these rice bowls can cater to your preferences while keeping your taste buds happy.

Quick and Easy Preparation

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to cook can be challenging. This ground beef rice bowl recipe fits seamlessly into busy weeknights. With most of the cooking time spent simmering rice and browning the beef, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a meal with loved ones.

The simplicity of the recipe is another highlight. With just a few staple ingredients and minimal cooking techniques, even novice cooks can successfully whip up this dish. It's a great way to build confidence in the kitchen while producing a satisfying and impressive meal.

Customization Options

One of the best features of ground beef rice bowls is their incredible versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or make it vegetarian by using plant-based meat alternatives. The choice of toppings is also endless—consider adding shredded cheese, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and texture.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables as well. Zucchini, carrots, or corn can be excellent additions to the mix, enhancing both the taste and nutritional value of your meal. The ability to tailor this dish to your liking makes it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to keep meals exciting.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup rice (white or brown)
2 cups water or beef broth
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepared and ready to use before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your ground beef rice bowls:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water or beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning

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

Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice among bowls, top with the ground beef mixture, and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty ground beef rice bowls!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, ground beef rice bowls store exceptionally well in the refrigerator. Simply transfer the cooled dish into an airtight container and it will last for up to three days. Reheating is a breeze—just microwave individual servings until heated through or warm them up in a skillet for a few minutes to maintain the texture of the rice and beef.

For longer storage, consider freezing the beef mixture separately from the rice. This allows you to enjoy the meal at a later date without compromising the quality. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed for a quick meal option.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your ground beef rice bowls, consider serving them with a side of crispy egg rolls or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the hearty nature of the main dish while adding a refreshing crunch. You can also create a themed night by pairing these bowls with Asian-inspired beverages like iced green tea or a light beer.

For a family-friendly twist, let everyone build their own bowl! Set out a variety of toppings and sauces, such as sriracha, teriyaki sauce, or sesame seeds, and let each person customize their meal. This interactive dining experience is not only fun but also encourages creativity in flavor combinations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the ground beef while cooking.

→ Can I prepare this meal in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook the beef and rice ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with these rice bowls?

These bowls pair well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.