There’s something so comforting and versatile about a burrito bowl! This recipe for Ground Beef & Rice Burrito Bowls is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with vibrant flavors and hearty textures. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even a gathering of friends.

Made with perfectly seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and all your favorite burrito toppings, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll be hooked on its simplicity and versatility!

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Why You’ll Love These Ground Beef & Rice Burrito Bowls

There’s so much to love about this recipe. Here are just a few reasons it’ll win a spot on your weekly meal rotation:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights.
Customizable: The toppings can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste.
Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.

What Do Ground Beef & Rice Burrito Bowls Taste Like?

Imagine the warmth of savory, spiced ground beef combined with fluffy rice as a hearty base. Then comes the fresh crunch of lettuce, the creamy richness of guacamole and sour cream, the tangy zing of salsa, and the melty goodness of cheddar cheese. Every bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavors—comfort food at its finest!

Benefits of This Recipe

One-Pan Wonder: Aside from cooking the rice, everything comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Nutrient-Packed: Customize with fresh veggies for added vitamins and fiber.
Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love building their own bowls with the toppings they enjoy most.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious burrito bowls:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup white or brown rice, cooked
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup salsa
1/2 cup guacamole
1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

Large skillet
Saucepan or rice cooker for cooking rice
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Bowls for serving

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

Ground Beef: Swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Rice: Try cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb twist.
Cheese: Substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a dairy-free alternative.
Toppings: Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.

How to Make Ground Beef & Rice Burrito Bowls

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Prepare the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned ground beef. Pour in the water and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Grab your serving bowls and start with a base layer of the cooked rice. Add a generous scoop of the seasoned ground beef on top.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings. Sprinkle on shredded cheddar cheese, add a handful of shredded lettuce, and dollop salsa and guacamole. For an extra kick, finish with sour cream and chopped green onions.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Your burrito bowls are ready to be devoured. Serve immediately and savor the delicious blend of flavors.

What to Serve with Burrito Bowls

These burrito bowls are a complete meal on their own, but here are a few ideas to round out your feast:

Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up extra salsa or guacamole.
Mexican Street Corn: A flavorful side dish to complement the bowls.
Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds a zesty freshness to each bite.
Refried Beans or Black Beans: A classic pairing for any Tex-Mex meal.

Tips for Perfect Burrito Bowls

Prep Ahead: Cook the rice and chop the toppings ahead of time for an even quicker meal.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the ground beef for extra heat.
Keep it Fresh: Use fresh guacamole and salsa for the best flavor.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm the ground beef and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add toppings fresh before serving.
Freezing: Freeze the seasoned ground beef and cooked rice separately for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a mix of black beans and sautéed vegetables.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Be sure to fluff the rice with a fork after cooking, and avoid overcooking it in the first place.

Can I use homemade taco seasoning?

Yes! A mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of oregano makes an excellent homemade taco seasoning.

Wrap-Up

Ground Beef & Rice Burrito Bowls are a simple, flavorful way to bring the joy of Tex-Mex into your home. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or prepping lunches for the week, this recipe has you covered. With its endless topping possibilities and rich, comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

If you’re looking for more easy and flavorful recipes, don’t miss this Club Sandwich Pasta Salad for a refreshing twist on a classic dish, or try this Crispy Potato & Smoked Sausage Skillet for a hearty one-pan meal.

Let’s See Your Burrito Bowls!

If you try this recipe, snap a photo and share it on Pinterest or Instagram. Don’t forget to tag us—we’d love to see your creations! And if you have a moment, leave a review below to let us know what you think.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 30g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 3g