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.
The first time I made this loaded beef burrito bowl, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how much my whole family loved piling on their favorite toppings. It's become a go-to for busy weeknights in our house.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Onion (finely chopped): 1 small
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Chili powder: 1 tbsp
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Dried oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (plus 1/2 tsp for rice)
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Tomato sauce: 1/4 cup
- Long-grain white rice (rinsed): 1 cup (200 g)
- Water: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Black beans (drained and rinsed): 1 can (15 oz/425 g)
- Corn kernels: 1 cup (150 g) (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Red bell pepper (diced): 1
- Cherry tomatoes (halved): 1 cup (150 g)
- Shredded lettuce: 1 cup (100 g)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): 1/4 cup (10 g)
- Avocado (sliced): 1
- Lime wedges: For serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and 1/2 tsp 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 scooping their favorite ingredients into their own bowls around the dinner table — it turns mealtime into a fun, interactive experience that brings us together.
Customization Ideas
Try swapping in brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa as a base. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or keep it plant-based with vegan cheese and mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the burrito bowl with tortilla chips on the side, or roll everything up in a burrito wrap for an on-the-go meal. A squeeze of lime juice brightens all the flavors right before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving provides about 610 calories, 28 g total fat, 58 g carbohydrates, and 34 g protein, making it satisfying and filling for lunch or dinner.
Save This loaded beef burrito bowl is just as delicious served hot or cold — leftovers make the perfect lunch. Try it once and it may become your new Tex-Mex staple.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I cook the beef for a tender texture?
Cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat and simmer with spices and tomato sauce to enhance tenderness and flavor.
- → Can I substitute the rice for a different base?
Yes, you can use brown rice or cauliflower rice as alternatives for a healthier or low-carb option without sacrificing the overall taste.
- → What toppings complement this bowl best?
Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges add creamy, tangy, and fresh notes that perfectly balance the dish.
- → How can I make this more spicy?
Add sliced jalapeños or increase the chili powder in the beef seasoning to introduce extra heat and depth to the bowl.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
This bowl is gluten-free if all ingredients, such as tomato sauce and spices, are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to avoid cross-contamination.
- → Are there vegetarian options for this bowl?
Yes, replace ground beef with plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms, and use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly bowl.