Ground Beef Rice Bowls

Name: Ground Beef Rice Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup steamed broccoli; 1/2 cup shredded cheese; Sliced green onions; Sriracha or hot sauce (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious and hearty ground beef rice bowls, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-24T11:30:38.328Z

These ground beef rice bowls are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrients. It's a perfect meal for busy weeknights that the whole family will enjoy.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory ground beef seasoned to perfection
Versatile and customizable with your favorite toppings
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy evenings

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Ground beef rice bowls are the ideal solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish allows you to serve a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory beef and fluffy rice creates a comforting base that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Additionally, this recipe lends itself well to batch cooking. Prepare a larger quantity of the beef mixture, and you can enjoy it across multiple meals throughout the week. Simply store it in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat when needed, making it a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts.

Customizable Toppings

One of the best aspects of ground beef rice bowls is their versatility. You can easily customize this dish with a variety of toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try adding roasted vegetables, avocado slices, or even a fried egg on top for a delicious twist.

Don't hesitate to experiment with different sauces as well! While sriracha adds a nice kick, you can also drizzle on teriyaki sauce, hoisin sauce, or even a tangy vinaigrette to elevate the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, making each meal unique and exciting.

Healthy Additions

To make your ground beef rice bowls even more nutritious, consider incorporating additional vegetables. Leafy greens, bell peppers, or snap peas can add color, texture, and extra vitamins to your meal. Steaming or sautéing these veggies alongside your beef mixture ensures they retain their nutrients while enhancing the overall flavor.

For a heartier bowl, you can also substitute brown rice or quinoa for white rice. These whole grains offer more fiber and protein, helping to keep you full longer. This slight change can transform your dish into a wholesome, balanced meal that supports your health goals.

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup steamed broccoli
1/2 cup shredded cheese
Sliced green onions
Sriracha or hot sauce (optional)

Feel free to add any other toppings you love!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.

Season the Mixture

Stir in the soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.

Assemble the Bowls

In bowls, layer cooked rice, the seasoned beef mixture, steamed broccoli, and top with shredded cheese and green onions. Drizzle with sriracha if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying your delicious ground beef rice bowls, storing them is a breeze. Allow the bowl components to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store the beef mixture and rice separately to maintain their texture and flavor.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to prevent drying out and to keep everything moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Ground beef rice bowls make a fantastic main dish, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides. A light salad or a side of pickled vegetables can complement the savory flavors of the beef while adding freshness to the meal. Consider serving with a refreshing cucumber salad for an extra crunch.

For those who enjoy a little something sweet after dinner, fruit salad or a simple sorbet can provide a nice contrast to the hearty main course. This balance of flavors not only enhances your dining experience but also makes your meal feel complete.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use beans.

→ What kind of rice should I use?

You can use any type of rice you like, such as white, brown, or jasmine rice.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.