High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl

Name: High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup salsa; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love creating flavorful and nutritious meals, and this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl always hits the spot! Packed with tender beef, fresh veggies, and satisfying grains, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. I enjoy customizing my bowl with my favorite toppings, making it a versatile option for any day of the week. Plus, it's quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when I want something delicious yet healthy. This recipe has become a staple in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:39:35.212Z

Creating my High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl has been a game-changer for my weeknight dinners. The juicy, spiced beef pairs perfectly with the fresh toppings I choose, allowing for creativity in every bite. I found that using lean grass-fed beef not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a healthier meal.

I've experimented with various beans and grains, and I must say that quinoa adds a lovely nuttiness that elevates the whole dish. Adding a squeeze of lime just before serving brings all the flavors to life, making it a dish I never tire of.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with flavor and high in protein to fuel your day
Quick and customizable for picky eaters and different preferences
A colorful presentation that makes healthy eating enjoyable

Mastering the Beef Technique

To achieve perfectly cooked beef, it’s crucial to use medium heat when browning the ground beef. Too high of a heat can easily lead to uneven cooking, resulting in tough texture rather than the tender bite you desire. Stir frequently and break up any large clumps of beef to ensure even browning. Look for a rich, browned color, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. If your beef begins to stick to the pan, a little splash of water or broth can help deglaze and lift those flavorful bits.

When seasoning the beef mixture, add your spices after the meat is fully cooked. This allows the flavors to bloom over a gentle heat, releasing aromatic compounds that infuse the beef beautifully. Cooking the spices for an additional 2-3 minutes not only enhances the flavor profile but also deepens the overall taste of your burrito bowl. A well-seasoned base is vital as it sets the foundation for the entire dish.

Building Your Burrito Bowl

The order in which you layer the ingredients is more than just aesthetics. Starting with the cooked brown rice or quinoa creates a stable base that absorbs moisture from the ingredients above, preventing a soggy bottom. Brown rice offers nuttiness and chewy texture while quinoa brings a slight crunch; choose based on your preference. For a gluten-free option, quinoa is particularly favorable and adds additional protein to the bowl.

When it comes to toppings, customization is key. Slice your avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant. If you're not fond of avocado, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute, adding creaminess and a tangy bite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or jalapeños. Each addition can give a completely new character to your dish, catering to individual tastes.

Ingredients for High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup salsa
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Gather all your ingredients for a delicious meal!

Instructions to Prepare Your Burrito Bowl

Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Season the Mixture

Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the spices bloom and combine with the beef.

Prepare the Base

In a bowl, layer the cooked brown rice or quinoa, followed by the beef mixture. Add black beans and corn on top.

Add Toppings

Finish with diced bell peppers, avocado slices, and a generous scoop of salsa. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the burrito bowls with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!

Enjoy every bite of your delicious Burrito Bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your burrito bowl with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice or frozen vegetables to speed up the process.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prep this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl ahead of time, consider making the beef and grains in advance. The beef mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it also freezes well for about 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent dryness and heat it on medium until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

To maintain the freshness of your toppings, store them separately. Prepped bell peppers, avocado, and salsa can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you cut the avocado early, store it with a slice of onion or sprinkle it with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Serving Ideas

Serve your burrito bowl family-style during gatherings by providing various toppings in small bowls. This encourages everyone to build their own bowl with flavors they enjoy. It can also make meal prep fun and engaging, allowing for creativity at the dining table.

For a low-carb version, skip the rice or grains altogether and use cauliflower rice instead. This not only cuts down carbohydrates but also adds a different texture, making the dish feel light yet satisfying. The versatility of this bowl means you can enjoy it year-round, adjusting toppings based on seasonality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa and check your salsa label for gluten-free certification.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the beef with extra beans or lentils and add more vegetables for flavor and texture.