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Flavorful Beef and Bean Burrito Bowls

beef and bean burrito bowls - featured image

A quick and hearty meal featuring seasoned ground beef, black beans, and fresh toppings served over fluffy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 can (15 oz / 425g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups (400g) cooked rice (white or brown, jasmine preferred)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro (chopped), diced tomatoes or salsa, shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), sour cream or Greek yogurt, avocado slices or guacamole, pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice: Rinse 1 cup (200g) of rice under cold water until clear. Add to a saucepan with 2 cups (480ml) of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes (white rice) or 40 minutes (brown rice). Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  2. Prepare the aromatics: While rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef to the skillet. Break apart with a spatula and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Season the meat: Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to let spices bloom.
  5. Add the beans: Stir in the drained black beans. Lower heat to medium and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are heated through and meld with the beef mixture.
  6. Prepare the toppings: Chop fresh toppings such as cilantro, tomatoes, avocado, or others as desired.
  7. Assemble the bowls: Place about 1 cup (200g) cooked rice per serving in bowls. Spoon beef and bean mixture over rice. Add desired toppings and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
  8. Final taste check: Adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when browning beef to ensure proper searing. Use tomato paste instead of sauce for concentrated flavor. Add salt and spices gradually and taste as you go. Stir beans in last and warm gently to keep their texture. Leftover rice can be refreshed with a splash of water and microwaved covered. For smoky flavor, try smoked salt instead of regular salt. The beef and bean mixture freezes well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef burrito bowl, bean burrito bowl, quick dinner, easy meal, ground beef recipe, black beans, Mexican bowl, weeknight dinner