Beef Burrito Bowl
All the bold flavors of a loaded beef burrito, served in a bowl without the tortilla. Seasoned ground beef, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and fresh salsa come together for a satisfying, colorful meal that's ready in about 40 minutes.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~15 min
Cook the black beans.
Soak dried black beans overnight. Drain, then pressure cook with 3 cups water for 15 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- boil · ~15 min
Cook the cilantro-lime rice.
Bring 2 cups water to a boil in a saucepan. Add rinsed basmati rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in juice of 1 lime and 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro.
TIPLet the rice rest covered for 5 minutes after cooking for the fluffiest texture. - fry · ~4 min
Sauté the aromatics.
1.Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.2.Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.3.Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. - fry · ~8 min
Brown the seasoned beef.
1.Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula.2.Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 7 minutes.3.Drain off excess fat, then stir in cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.4.Cook 1 more minute until spices are fragrant.TIPDon't stir the beef constantly — letting it sit for a minute builds a nice crust. - prep · ~3 min
Prepare the fresh toppings.
Dice the tomato and avocado. If using frozen corn, thaw it. Set aside for assembly.
- assemble · ~2 min
Assemble the burrito bowls.
1.Divide cilantro-lime rice evenly among 4 bowls.2.Top each with seasoned beef, black beans, corn, tomato, and avocado.3.Drizzle with remaining lime juice and garnish with remaining cilantro.TIPLayer ingredients in sections for a vibrant presentation, not all mixed together. - serve
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Soak basmati rice for 20 minutes before cooking to achieve separate, fluffy grains.
- 2Let the beef sit undisturbed in the pan for a minute to develop a flavorful brown crust.
- 3Drain excess fat after browning the beef to keep the bowl from becoming greasy.
- 4Fluff the rice with a fork and let it rest 5 minutes after cooking for the best texture.
- 5Assemble ingredients in separate sections in the bowl for a vibrant, restaurant-style look.
- 6If using frozen corn, thaw and pat it dry to prevent watering down the bowl.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-carb / keto
Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or extra lettuce for a low-carb version. Increase the avocado and add cheese for more healthy fats.
higher proteinHigher-protein
Replace half the ground beef with crumbled firm tofu or extra-lean ground turkey, and add a dollop of Greek yogurt or queso fresco on top.
vegetarianVegetarian
Skip the beef and double the black beans, then add sautéed bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty, meatless bowl.
spicySpicy
Add a minced jalapeño with the garlic, and stir in 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder or hot sauce into the beef for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Black beans provide soluble fiber that supports digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Avocado supplies monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
Good Source of Protein
Lean ground beef delivers high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and satiety.
Packed with Antioxidants
Cumin and smoked paprika contain antioxidant compounds that help reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, use one 15-ounce can of black beans, rinsed and drained. Skip the soaking and pressure cooking, and add them to the bowl directly.



