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Easy Flavor-Packed Beef and Bean Burrito Bowl

beef and bean burrito bowl - featured image

A quick and satisfying beef and bean burrito bowl packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef, preferably 85% lean
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 2 cups cooked rice or cauliflower rice (about 300g)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • A handful of chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional), cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for topping
  • Fresh salsa or pico de gallo, for topping

Instructions

  1. Cook 2 cups (about 300g) of rice according to package instructions or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. Drain and rinse the black beans under cold water to remove excess sodium and starch.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  6. Sprinkle in ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook for 2 minutes to let flavors meld.
  7. Add the drained black beans and stir gently to heat through for about 2 minutes.
  8. Remove skillet from heat and squeeze lime juice over the beef and bean mixture. Stir to combine.
  9. Divide the cooked rice or cauliflower rice between 4 bowls. Spoon the beef and bean mixture over the rice.
  10. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and shredded cheese if using.
  11. Top each bowl with sour cream or Greek yogurt and fresh salsa or pico de gallo. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

If the beef feels dry, add a splash of water or broth during cooking to keep it juicy. Avoid burning garlic to prevent bitterness. Taste and adjust seasoning before assembling. Warm bowls before serving to keep the meal cozy longer. Add beans last to maintain texture. Use pre-cooked or leftover rice to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef burrito bowl, quick dinner, healthy meals, ground beef recipe, black beans, easy burrito bowl, weeknight dinner