The Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a colorful and hearty meal that brings together juicy, seasoned ground beef with fresh ingredients like rice, beans, corn, and plenty of zesty spices. It’s a bowl full of flavors and textures that make every bite exciting—from the tender beef to the crisp lettuce and creamy guacamole on top.
I love making this bowl because it’s so easy to customize. Sometimes I add extra cheese or a dollop of sour cream, while other times I pile on the salsa or chopped cilantro for a fresh kick. It’s one of those dishes that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to share with friends or family.
My favorite way to eat it is scooping it all up with crunchy tortilla chips or wrapping it in a warm tortilla for a makeshift burrito. It’s filling, flavorful, and always leaves me feeling satisfied without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser in your house too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken, but add a little oil to keep it moist.
Taco Seasoning: Using a packet is super convenient, but a homemade mix lets you control the salt and spice. Adjust chili powder and cumin to your liking for mild or spicy bowls.
Brown Rice: I like brown rice for its nutty flavor and fiber. White rice works too if you prefer something softer. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice.
Black Beans & Corn: These add texture and color. Canned beans are great for speed; just rinse to lower sodium. Frozen or canned corn works well as a sweet, crunchy contrast.
Avocado & Guacamole: Fresh avocado slices add creaminess and richness. If you don’t have guacamole, mashed avocado with a squeeze of lime and salt is a quick fix.
Cheese & Sour Cream: Cheddar brings a nice sharpness, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend are tasty choices too. Sour cream can be swapped with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef So It’s Tender, Not Dry?
Getting the ground beef just right makes all the difference. Here’s a simple way:
- Heat your pan well before adding the beef, but don’t use too much oil since the meat has fat.
- Break it into small chunks with a spatula, letting it brown without stirring constantly—this gives good texture.
- Once browned, drain excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Add your seasoning with a splash of water and simmer briefly. This locks in flavor and keeps the beef juicy.
Remember, patience during cooking means tastier meat. Avoid overcooking or pressing the beef too much; let it naturally brown and brown pieces will add flavor and mouthfeel to your bowl.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I recommend a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for even browning and easy cleanup.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate seasoning and rice quantities.
- Cooking spoon or spatula – makes breaking up the beef and mixing ingredients simple.
- Small pot or microwave-safe bowl – to warm the rice, beans, and corn quickly.
- Serving bowls – to layer all the ingredients beautifully for serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for cooked shredded chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
- Mix in sautéed peppers or onions with the beef for extra flavor and crunch.
- Try using pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a different melt and flavor.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños if you like some spice.
How to Make a Ground Beef Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper)
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (or pico de gallo)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Tortilla chips, for serving
- Optional: lime wedges for squeezing
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15–20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the beef and warming the rice and beans, and a few more minutes assembling the bowl and adding toppings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it while breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
2. Add Seasoning:
Drain any excess fat if you wish. Stir in the taco seasoning and about 1/4 cup water (or follow the seasoning packet instructions). Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the flavors blend and the sauce thickens a bit.
3. Warm the Rice and Beans:
While the beef cooks, warm the cooked brown rice and black beans together in a small pot over low heat or in the microwave. Stir in the corn kernels to heat through if you like.
4. Assemble the Burrito Bowl:
Start by laying a base of the rice, beans, and corn mixture in your serving bowl. Spoon the seasoned ground beef onto one side of the base. Add the chopped tomatoes or pico de gallo on another side. Place avocado slices and a scoop of guacamole beside those.
5. Add Cheese and Toppings:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef and tomatoes. Drizzle sour cream or Mexican crema in thin lines on top. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor.
6. Serve:
Add a few crunchy tortilla chips on the side. Optionally, serve with lime wedges for a bright squeeze of citrus right before eating. Enjoy immediately!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess water from making the dish soggy.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Rice?
White rice works perfectly if you prefer a softer texture. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a great substitute that cooks quickly and adds extra veggies to your bowl.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover components, like cooked beef, rice, and toppings, separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef and rice on the stove or microwave, then add fresh toppings before serving.
Can I Make This Burrito Bowl Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for sautéed veggies, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative. Keep the beans, corn, and other toppings for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian bowl.
