I first made these beef burrito bowls on a weeknight when I had absolutely no plan for dinner and just a few random ingredients in the fridge and pantry. I had ground beef and leftover rice and a couple of limes sitting on the counter and I thought maybe I could throw together something similar to what I always order at my favorite Mexican spot and to my surprise it turned out even better than takeout.

Since then I’ve made these bowls so many times and they’ve become a go-to meal whenever I want something filling and quick and still loaded with fresh flavors. I love how easy it is to customize every bowl with what I have on hand and the combination of seasoned beef with fluffy rice and guacamole and crunchy toppings makes every bite exciting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Ground beef – The hearty and flavorful base of the bowl.
Cooked rice – A fluffy and mild base that soaks up all the flavors.
Black beans – Adds fiber and protein while pairing well with the beef.
Cheddar cheese – Brings a sharp and melty finish to the bowl.
Pico de gallo – Offers a fresh burst of tomato and lime flavor.
Guacamole – Creamy and rich with the perfect amount of zing.
Lime wedges – For that bright and tangy final touch.
Fresh cilantro – Adds freshness and a little herbaceous lift.
Olive oil – Helps to cook the beef and add a touch of richness.
Taco seasoning – Infuses the beef with bold spices.
Salt and pepper – Essential for balancing the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

Skillet – Perfect for browning and seasoning the ground beef.
Wooden spoon – Helps break up and stir the beef while cooking.
Rice cooker or pot – Used to cook fluffy rice.
Cutting board – Great for prepping fresh ingredients like limes and cilantro.
Knife – For chopping vegetables and herbs neatly.
Mixing bowl – Useful for preparing guacamole or pico de gallo.
Serving bowls – To build each personalized burrito bowl.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

I start by cooking the rice until it’s fluffy and tender and I usually use a rice cooker to keep things easy and consistent and then I keep it warm while preparing the rest.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Next, I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat then I add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through and then I stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 3: Prep the Toppings

While the beef simmers I prepare the toppings – I chop tomatoes and onions for fresh pico de gallo and mash ripe avocados with a bit of lime and salt to make creamy guacamole and I also shred the cheddar and slice up some lime wedges.

Step 4: Warm the Beans

I like to warm the black beans in a small saucepan or in the microwave just until heated through and I usually add a pinch of salt and cumin for extra flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Now comes the fun part – building the bowls. I start with a scoop of rice at the bottom then I layer on the seasoned beef black beans pico de gallo guacamole cheese and finish it with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and fresh lime wedges.

Tips

I often make a big batch of rice and beef ahead of time to speed things up during the week. If I’m short on time I use store-bought pico and guacamole and it still tastes great. For a healthier twist I sometimes swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice. You can also switch the beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken if you prefer something lighter.

Ways to Serve

These beef burrito bowls are perfect for meal prep – I pack them in containers for lunch and just add fresh toppings right before eating. They’re also great for a build-your-own dinner night where everyone can customize their own bowl. Serve them with tortilla chips on the side for scooping or add some hot sauce for an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make beef burrito bowls ahead of time?

Yes, just keep the hot ingredients and fresh toppings separate until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of beef in burrito bowls?

You can use ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Are these beef burrito bowls gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your taco seasoning and other toppings are gluten-free, the whole dish is naturally gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers from beef burrito bowls?

Store the beef, rice, and beans in one container and the cold toppings in another and assemble when ready to eat.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these beef burrito bowls a try! They’re one of the easiest and most flavorful meals I keep on rotation and I’d love to know what fun twists you add to make it your own. Don’t forget to save this recipe for your next busy day or meal prep Sunday.

Happy Cooking!