Ground Beef Burrito Bowl

Introduction

The Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a hearty, colorful, and flavor-packed meal that brings all the best parts of a burrito—without the tortilla. It’s simple, nourishing, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making dinner for the family, this dish checks every box: quick, balanced, and absolutely delicious. Here at Bake Warely, we love recipes that are easy to make, easy to customize, and always deliver comfort in a bowl.

My Recipe Story

This recipe was born out of a craving for something filling yet fuss-free on a busy weeknight. Instead of rolling burritos for everyone, I thought—why not just throw everything in a bowl? The result was magic. Each bite had the perfect balance of textures: the savory taco-seasoned beef, fluffy rice, tender black beans, sweet corn, and cool, refreshing toppings. It’s become a go-to meal at home, especially for meal prep Sundays when I need a versatile dish that stays fresh for days.

Ingredient Breakdown

• Ground beef (1 lb): Choose 85% lean for flavor balance. It browns beautifully and adds that rich, savory base.
• Taco seasoning (2 tsp): Store-bought or homemade — this blend adds smoky, spicy depth.
• Cooked rice (2 cups): White, brown, or even cauliflower rice work great.
• Black beans (1 cup): Provide plant-based protein and creamy texture.
• Corn kernels (1 cup): Adds natural sweetness and crunch; use fresh, frozen, or canned.
• Garnishes: Salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, and cilantro take this bowl to the next level.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet for browning the ground beef.
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
• Medium pot or rice cooker for cooking the rice.
• Mixing bowls for prepping toppings.
• Serving bowls for assembling your burrito bowls.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the rice

Prepare your rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, cook it in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. While the rice cooks, you can prep your other ingredients. Fluff the rice once done and set it aside. This warm, fluffy base will soak up all the rich burrito flavors later.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, allowing the fat to render and the edges to brown. This step takes about 6–8 minutes. Browning properly develops deep flavor, creating a savory base for your Ground Beef Burrito Bowl.

Step 3: Add taco seasoning

Sprinkle in your taco seasoning and a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons). Stir well to coat the beef evenly. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. The seasoning brings smoky chili notes, balanced saltiness, and just the right amount of heat.

Step 4: Assemble the bowls

Divide the rice evenly among serving bowls. Top each with a generous spoonful of seasoned ground beef. Add black beans, corn, and your favorite garnishes — salsa, guacamole, cheese, and cilantro. The beauty of a burrito bowl is in the layering and color contrast.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Serve your Ground Beef Burrito Bowl warm. Mix everything together or savor each layer separately — it’s up to you. For a restaurant-style experience, add a squeeze of lime juice and drizzle of sour cream over the top before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
• Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Try pinto beans instead of black beans for a creamier texture.
• Add roasted bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy, protein-packed topping.

Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. For freezing, keep the beef and rice in separate containers — they’ll last up to 2 months. Add fresh toppings after reheating for the best texture and taste. Perfect for weekly meal prep!

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This Ground Beef Burrito Bowl pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, a simple avocado salad, or even roasted sweet potatoes. For a complete Tex-Mex experience, serve with Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos on the side. For cooking inspiration and flavor ideas, check out Serious Eats for their expert seasoning guides and cooking techniques.

FAQ

Can I make this burrito bowl vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for lentils, tofu crumbles, or extra beans for a hearty, meat-free version.

What kind of rice works best?

White rice gives a classic flavor, but brown or jasmine rice add extra fiber and aroma. Even quinoa works great!

How do I keep the rice from drying out?

Store it in a sealed container with a damp paper towel on top before reheating — this keeps it moist and fluffy.

Can I use leftover taco meat?

Absolutely. This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover taco filling into a whole new meal.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! It’s one of the best meal prep dishes — pack each component separately, then mix and match during the week.

Final Thoughts

The Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced — bursting with color, texture, and flavor in every bite. It’s the perfect recipe for busy cooks who want a wholesome meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Easy to make, easy to customize, and always satisfying — it’s everything you love about burritos, reimagined for your bowl.

Ground Beef Burrito Bowl

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• Author: Sarah Mitchell
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

A hearty and customizable ground beef burrito bowl packed with bold flavors, protein, and colorful toppings!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

→ For the Ground Beef

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup water

→ For the Rice Base

• 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice/quinoa for a healthier option)

• Juice of 1 lime

• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

• 1/2 tsp salt

→ For the Toppings

• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Salsa or pico de gallo (to taste)

• Jalapeño slices (optional)

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

• Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

• Add flavor: Stir in diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Mix in taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in water and simmer for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes saucy.

• Prepare the rice: In a bowl, mix cooked rice with lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Fluff with a fork to combine.

• Assemble the bowls: Start with a scoop of cilantro-lime rice at the bottom. Top with seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, and cheese.

• Add toppings: Finish with sour cream or Greek yogurt, salsa, and optional jalapeños.

• Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy immediately!

Notes

• For meal prep, store ingredients separately and assemble just before eating.

• Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

• Add grilled veggies or lettuce for extra crunch.

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Adjust spice levels by adding more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx.)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 80mg