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Healthy Ground Beef Burrito Bowls - A Fresh, Balanced Weeknight Favorite

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Ground beef: 90–95% lean for a lighter bowl with plenty of flavor.
  • Cooked rice: Brown rice for fiber, or white rice if you prefer. Cauliflower rice works too.
  • Black beans: Drained and rinsed for extra protein and fiber.
  • Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned. Adds sweetness and crunch.
  • Bell pepper: Diced. Any color works.
  • Red onion: Diced. For bite and brightness.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Halved, or use diced Roma tomatoes.
  • Romaine or mixed greens: Thinly sliced. Lightens the bowl.
  • Avocado: Diced or sliced for healthy fats and creaminess.
  • Fresh cilantro: Chopped. Optional but highly recommended.
  • Lime: Zest and juice for finishing.
  • Olive oil: For sautéing.
  • Low-sodium beef broth or water: A splash to keep the beef juicy.
  • Seasoning blend: Chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Optional extras: Shredded cheese, Greek yogurt (in place of sour cream), salsa, hot sauce, pickled jalapeños.

Method
 

  1. Cook the base: Make your rice according to package directions. Fluff and set aside. If using cauliflower rice, sauté in a little olive oil with salt and pepper until tender.
  2. Prep the produce: Dice bell pepper and red onion, halve cherry tomatoes, shred romaine, chop cilantro, and cube the avocado. Cut your lime into wedges.
  3. Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 1.5 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  4. Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  5. Season and simmer: Sprinkle the spice mix over the beef. Stir to coat. Add a splash (2–3 tablespoons) of broth or water and let it simmer for 2 minutes to bloom the spices and keep the meat moist.
  6. Warm the beans and corn: In a small pan, warm black beans and corn with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime. Alternatively, microwave in a bowl for 60–90 seconds.
  7. Build your bowls: Start with a scoop of rice. Add a portion of the seasoned beef. Top with black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion, tomatoes, and romaine.
  8. Add the finishers: Spoon on avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. If using, add a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cheese, and your favorite salsa or hot sauce.
  9. Taste and adjust: Add a pinch of salt or another squeeze of lime if needed. Serve right away.