Save 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 made this loaded beef burrito bowl on a busy weeknight when everyone wanted something different. Creating these individual bowls let everyone build their own just the way they liked it, and it quickly became a regular request at our table.
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, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, or 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 3 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 7 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 3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Other Ingredients:
- While beef cooks, warm the black beans and corn in a small 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 a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and garnish with lime wedges.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Save My kids love creating their own versions of this burrito bowl, and it is always fun to see who piles on the most toppings. Making it together at dinner time gets everyone involved.
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 depending on tomato sauce and cheese. Gluten-free if all packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 610 calories, 28 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, 34 g protein
Save This burrito bowl is a snap to prepare and makes cleanup easy, while leaving plenty of room for customization at the table.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you keep the beef tender and flavorful?
Sauté the beef with onion and garlic, then season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer with tomato sauce to lock in moisture and deepen flavors.
- → What rice type works best for this bowl?
Long-grain white rice is preferred for its fluffy texture, but brown rice or cauliflower rice can be substituted for a healthier twist.
- → Can I make the bowl spicier?
Absolutely. Add sliced jalapeños or increase chili powder during beef seasoning to boost the heat level according to taste.
- → How to prepare the toppings for freshness?
Use freshly shredded cheddar, ripe avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges served immediately to maintain vibrant flavors and textures.
- → Are there alternatives for dairy toppings?
Dairy-free sour cream and vegan cheese work well as substitutes, especially for those avoiding milk products.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, provided all ingredients, especially canned goods and sauces, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.