Name: Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (90% lean); 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; salt to taste; chopped green onions (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

A Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is one of those healthy bowls for dinner that checks all the boxes. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and tastes amazing. This rice meat veggie bowl brings together savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice in one satisfying dish.

I remember the first time I made this meal. I was rushing home after a long day, staring at my fridge with no plan. I grabbed ground beef, some peppers, and leftover rice. Thirty minutes later, I had this incredible bowl that my whole family loved. That’s the beauty of this recipe. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but delicious enough to serve to guests.

This meat and rice bowl draws inspiration from Asian beef bowl recipes but keeps things flexible. You can adjust the flavors to match your mood. Want it spicy? Add some heat. Prefer it mild? Keep it simple. The recipe works either way.

The best part? This is one of those healthy and filling meals that actually keeps you satisfied. The combination of protein and rice meals gives you lasting energy without weighing you down. You get lean protein from the beef, vitamins from the peppers, and carbs from the rice. It’s balanced nutrition in one bowl.

Ingredients for Your Ground Beef Rice Bowl

This meat and veggie bowl recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have. Here’s what you need to make four servings:

For the Base:

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 90% lean)

• 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Flavor:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt to taste

• Chopped green onions for garnish

The ground beef provides the protein foundation. Choose lean beef to keep the dish lighter and healthier. The bell peppers add crunch, color, and vitamins. Any color works, but mixing red, yellow, and green makes the bowl more visually appealing.

Jasmine rice soaks up all the flavors beautifully. You can substitute brown rice for more fiber, but adjust the cooking time. The beef broth instead of water makes the rice extra flavorful. This small change makes a big difference.

The soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce create that savory depth. They work together to build umami flavor. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while black pepper gives a gentle kick.

Feel free to customize based on what you have. No jasmine rice? Use white or brown rice. Missing Worcestershire sauce? Add an extra splash of soy sauce. This ground beef and bell pepper recipe is forgiving and flexible.

Instructions: How to Make This Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

Making this rice protein bowl is straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start with the rice since it takes the longest. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup jasmine rice with 2 cups beef broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 more minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent.

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until completely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Peppers

Toss in your sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. Stir everything together and cook for 5 minutes. The peppers should soften but still have some crunch. The garlic will become fragrant and flavor the entire dish.

This is what makes it a true meat and veggie bowl. The peppers add texture and sweetness that balances the savory beef.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the beef and peppers. Pour in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Heat everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This final step lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve

Spoon the mixture into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. The green onions add a bright flavor and make the dish look restaurant-quality.

The entire process takes about 40 minutes from start to finish. Most of that time is hands-off while the rice cooks.

Pro Tips and Variations

This ground beef bowl recipe is versatile. Here are some ways to change it up and make it even better.

Make It a Korean Beef Rice Bowl

Transform this into a Korean-inspired dish with a few tweaks. Add 1 tablespoon brown sugar and 1 tablespoon sesame oil to the beef mixture. Use 3 tablespoons soy sauce instead of 2. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top with the green onions.

The brown sugar creates that signature sweet-savory balance in Korean beef bowls. The sesame oil adds a nutty richness. These small changes create a completely different flavor profile.

Try Steak Rice Bowl Recipes Instead

Want something fancier? Use sliced steak instead of ground beef. Cut sirloin or ribeye into thin strips. Season with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot skillet for 2 to 3 minutes per side.

This creates a steak rice bowl that feels more upscale. The tender steak pieces mixed with peppers make it feel like a special occasion meal. You can even try pepper steak and rice recipes by adding more sauce.

Turn It Into Stuffed Peppers with Rice and Beef

Here’s a clever variation. Instead of mixing everything in a bowl, use the mixture to stuff bell peppers. Cut 4 large bell peppers in half and remove seeds. Fill each half with the beef and rice mixture.

Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes. Now you have stuffed peppers with rice and beef using the same great flavors.

Other Ideas:

• Add mushrooms for more umami flavor

• Include snap peas or broccoli for extra veggies

• Use ground turkey for a leaner protein option

• Add a fried egg on top for extra richness

• Drizzle with sriracha mayo for heat

• Sprinkle with crushed peanuts for crunch

The beauty of rice protein bowls is how adaptable they are. Start with this base recipe and make it your own.

Serving Suggestions for Healthy and Filling Meals

This protein and rice meal is satisfying on its own, but these additions make it even better.

Side Dishes:

• Simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar

• Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt

• Quick pickled vegetables

• Crispy wontons for crunch

• Fresh spring rolls

Toppings Bar:

Set up a toppings station if you’re serving a group. Let everyone customize their bowl. Offer:

• Sliced avocado

• Kimchi

• Sriracha or hot sauce

• Lime wedges

• Fresh cilantro

• Crushed red pepper flakes

• Extra soy sauce

This turns dinner into an interactive experience. Everyone can make their perfect bowl.

Make It a Meal Prep:

This dish works perfectly for better me recipes throughout the week. Divide into meal prep containers after cooking. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also reheat in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Lunch Box Idea:

Pack this in a thermos for a hot lunch at work. It stays warm for hours and tastes even better after the flavors have time to blend.

Family Style:

Put the entire skillet on the table and let everyone serve themselves. Place the rice in a large serving bowl and the beef mixture in another. This creates a casual, family-friendly vibe.

These healthy bowls for dinner become even more enjoyable with the right sides and presentation.

Conclusion

This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is everything a weeknight dinner should be. It’s quick, nutritious, and packed with flavor. The combination of ground beef, colorful peppers, and perfectly seasoned rice creates a meal that satisfies every time.

What makes this ground beef bowl recipe special is its versatility. You can keep it simple for busy nights or dress it up for guests. Transform it into a Korean beef rice bowl, try it with steak, or even turn it into stuffed peppers. The possibilities are endless.

This is truly one of those healthy and filling meals that doesn’t feel like a compromise. You get protein, vegetables, and carbs in perfect balance. It’s comfort food that actually fuels your body.

The best part? Once you make it a few times, you’ll have the process memorized. No recipe needed. Just grab your ingredients and let your taste guide you.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this meat and rice bowl delivers. It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I think it will in yours too. Give it a try tonight and see why these protein and rice meals have become so popular.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works great in this recipe. Keep in mind it takes longer to cook, about 40 to 45 minutes. Start the rice first, then prepare the other ingredients while it cooks. Brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients to your meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken makes a leaner version. Cook it the same way as ground beef. You might want to add a bit more oil since these meats are less fatty. The flavor will be milder, so adjust seasonings to taste.

What other vegetables work in this recipe?

Many vegetables work well. Try zucchini, mushrooms, snap peas, broccoli, or carrots. Add harder vegetables like carrots earlier in the cooking process. Softer vegetables like zucchini can go in with the peppers. This flexibility makes it perfect for using up whatever vegetables you have.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, the basic recipe is mild. The black pepper adds subtle heat, but nothing overwhelming. If you want it spicy, add red pepper flakes, fresh chili peppers, or sriracha. Start with a little and adjust to your preference.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, this is excellent for meal prep. Make a full batch and divide into containers. It reheats well and the flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge. Pack it for work lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

What’s the best type of ground beef to use?

Choose 90% lean ground beef for the best balance. It has enough fat for flavor but won’t leave excess grease. If you use 80% lean, drain the fat well after browning. For the leanest option, go with 93% lean, but add a touch more oil.

Can I make this in one pot?

Yes, with a slight modification. Cook the rice separately as directed, or use a large pot with a lid. After browning the beef and cooking the vegetables, push everything to the sides. Add the uncooked rice in the center with the broth. Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked, about 20 minutes.

John