A Quick and Flavorful Dinner

If you love Tex-Mex flavors but want a simple, customizable dinner, these Ground Beef & Rice Burrito Bowls are the perfect solution. They combine all the delicious elements of a classic burrito—seasoned beef, fluffy rice, fresh toppings, and creamy sauces—without the fuss of wrapping everything in a tortilla. Each bowl can be built to suit individual tastes, making them ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The best part? They’re quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a weeknight dinner, these burrito bowls are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Why Burrito Bowls Are a Favorite

Burrito bowls have grown in popularity because they’re both versatile and wholesome. By layering rice, seasoned ground beef, and fresh toppings, you get a complete meal in one bowl. The rice serves as a hearty base, while the taco-seasoned beef adds rich, savory flavor. Fresh lettuce and salsa bring brightness, while cheese and guacamole add creaminess. With so many textures and flavors in each bite, it feels indulgent but can be tailored to fit your nutritional needs. These bowls are also endlessly adaptable—you can swap rice for quinoa, beef for chicken or turkey, or load up on veggies for a lighter option. It’s comfort food made customizable.

Tips for Perfect Burrito Bowls

To get the best results, cook your rice ahead of time so assembling the bowls is quick and easy. For extra flavor, cook the rice in chicken broth instead of water. When preparing the ground beef, make sure to brown it thoroughly for rich flavor before adding taco seasoning. Fresh toppings like lettuce, guacamole, and salsa balance the richness of the beef, so don’t skip them. For meal prep, store ingredients separately and assemble bowls just before eating to keep them fresh. If you love spice, add jalapeños, hot salsa, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra kick. These small adjustments make the bowls even more satisfying.

Serving and Storing

These burrito bowls are best served fresh, but they also make excellent leftovers. Store rice, beef, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop, then add fresh toppings before serving. They’re perfect for meal prep, as you can prepare several portions in advance and mix and match toppings to keep things interesting. For a lighter version, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or reduce cheese. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a quick lunch, or meal prepping for the week, these burrito bowls are both convenient and delicious.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup white or brown rice, cooked
1 packet taco seasoning
½ cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
½ cup salsa
½ cup guacamole
¼ cup sour cream (optional)
¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

Cook rice according to package directions; set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Assemble bowls: start with a base of rice, add seasoned beef, then top with cheese, lettuce, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and green onions.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Can I use another type of meat?

Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter option.

Can I make these bowls vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based meat alternative.

What rice works best?

Both white and brown rice work well. You can also use cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb option.

Can I meal prep burrito bowls?

Yes. Store the components separately and assemble fresh when ready to eat for the best texture.

How do I make it spicier?

Add hot salsa, jalapeños, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.