This Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a quick and tasty meal. It features juicy beef, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice, all tossed together in one bowl for simple enjoyment!
Don’t be surprised if you keep going back for seconds—it’s just that good! I love whipping this up on busy nights; it’s fast and perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This provides great flavor, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer plant-based options, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu, seasoned well.
Bell Pepper: The red bell pepper adds sweetness, but any color will work! Yellow or green peppers are perfect alternatives. You can also use other veggies like zucchini or snow peas for a change.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, tamari works great. Coconut aminos is another alternative if you’re looking for something soy-free.
Rice: While I typically use white rice, brown rice offers more fiber and nutrients. Quinoa is a nice grain substitute too; it cooks faster and adds a nutty flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef just right ensures tenderness and flavor! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium-high heat to sear the meat. This locks in the juices.
- Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks; this promotes even cooking.
- Cook until the beef is no longer pink—usually about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat for a leaner dish.
- Don’t rush it! Allow time for browning to develop that rich flavor.
Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (white and black mixed preferred)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, set it aside to keep warm while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet or wok, add the vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir it around for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s a lot of grease accumulated, carefully drain the excess fat.
4. Add the Peppers:
Next, stir in the diced red bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the peppers to become slightly tender yet still crispy. This adds a nice texture to your dish.
5. Season the Mixture:
Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well so the flavors mix thoroughly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Finish it Off:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the beef and pepper mixture. Give it a final stir to distribute the green onions.
7. Serve!
To serve, spoon the cooked rice into bowls and top it with your beef and pepper mixture. If you like, you can add more green onions and sesame seeds as a garnish on top.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this delicious, colorful rice bowl that packs a punch of flavor!
This Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a delightful meal, perfect for any day of the week, balancing savory ground beef, fresh veggies, and fluffy rice all in one bowl!
FAQ for Easy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a healthier option and adds extra fiber. However, keep in mind that it takes longer to cook, typically around 40-45 minutes. Adjust your cooking time accordingly!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef for Another Protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork work great as alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a similar texture and flavor. Just season as you would the beef!
What Should I Serve with This Rice Bowl?
This rice bowl is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a light salad for added freshness. Enjoy it with some soy sauce or sriracha drizzle for extra flavor!
