Go Back

Easy Beef Burrito Bowls - A Simple, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (85–90% lean works well)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for cooking)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth or water
  • 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen, canned, or fresh)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or pico de gallo)
  • 1 avocado, diced or sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • Optional add-ins: sliced jalapeños, pickled onions, shredded lettuce, hot sauce, salsa, sautéed peppers

Method
 

  1. Cook the rice: Make your favorite rice while you prepare the beef. For extra flavor, stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro at the end.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium. Add olive oil, then the onion. Cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Season it: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toast the spices for 30 seconds.
  5. Make it saucy: Add the tomato paste and stir to coat the beef. Pour in beef broth or water. Simmer 2–3 minutes until thick and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Warm beans and corn: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, warm the black beans and corn with a pinch of salt. Drain any liquid if needed.
  7. Prep toppings: Halve tomatoes, dice avocado, chop cilantro, and set out cheese, sour cream, and lime wedges.
  8. Build your bowls: Add a base of rice. Top with seasoned beef, black beans, corn, tomatoes, avocado, and cheese.
  9. Finish strong: Add a dollop of sour cream, a squeeze of lime, chopped cilantro, and any extras like jalapeños or salsa. Serve right away.