Pin A vibrant and hearty bowl layered with seasoned beef, fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, beans, and zesty toppings—a satisfying Tex-Mex favorite perfect for any meal.
I first tried assembling loaded burrito bowls for a quick family dinner on a busy weeknight. Everyone loved how they could personalize their own bowl, making this recipe both easy and fun for all ages.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- Rice: 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice (rinsed), 2 cups (480 ml) water, 1/2 tsp salt
- Beans & Veggies: 1 can (15 oz/425 g) black beans (drained and rinsed), 1 cup (150 g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned), 1 red bell pepper (diced), 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup (100 g) shredded lettuce
- Toppings: 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro (chopped), 1 avocado (sliced), lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender and water absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 2 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season the Beef:
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add tomato sauce and simmer for 2 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Other Ingredients:
- While beef cooks, warm the black beans and corn in a saucepan or microwave until heated through.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide rice among four bowls. Top each with seasoned beef, black beans, corn, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, add sour cream, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and garnish with lime wedges.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Pin We love piling up these burrito bowls and sitting down as a family to enjoy a meal filled with bold flavors and fresh vegetables. It’s become a go-to dinner for easy weeknight gatherings.
Required Tools
Large skillet, saucepan with lid, cutting board and knife, mixing spoon, bowls for serving
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, sour cream). May contain soy (tomato sauce, cheese labels) and avocado sensitivity. Gluten-free if all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Always check labels for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 610, Total Fat: 28 g, Carbohydrates: 58 g, Protein: 34 g
Pin Finish your bowls with a squeeze of lime and extra cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and easy versatility of this satisfying family meal.
Recipe Q&A
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Lean ground beef is ideal to ensure a good balance of flavor and texture without excessive grease.
- → Can I substitute the white rice with other grains?
Yes, brown rice or cauliflower rice make great alternatives for a healthier or low-carb option.
- → How can I add more heat to the bowl?
Incorporate sliced jalapeños or increase chili powder during cooking to boost the spiciness.
- → Are there vegetarian options for this bowl?
Plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms can replace beef, and dairy-free cheese and sour cream work well.
- → What toppings add the best freshness?
Fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and lime wedges provide vibrant, refreshing accents enhancing the overall flavor.
- → How should I store leftovers for best quality?
Keep components separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine just before serving to preserve texture.