Looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal? These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are the answer! Packed with savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice, this dish is a complete meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is easy to make and customizable to your taste. Let’s dive into this delicious and wholesome dish!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are a winner for so many reasons. First, they’re incredibly flavorful. The combination of savory beef, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic spices creates a dish that’s rich and satisfying.
Second, they’re quick and easy to make. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice or veggies.
Finally, they’re versatile. Customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables, swap the beef for chicken or tofu, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. It’s a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)
Equipment Used
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Directions & Instructions
- Cook the Rice: If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the vegetables and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Combine Everything: Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet and toss to combine with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with the beef and pepper mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, and serve warm.
Nutritional Information
These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are a balanced and satisfying meal. Per serving (1 bowl), it contains approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Sugar: 4g
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh.
- Spicy Twist: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for more heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork works well as a substitute for beef.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store the beef and pepper mixture separately from the rice and reheat before serving.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet.
Pro Tips By Elisa
- Use a hot skillet or wok for the best sear on the beef and veggies.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables to keep them crisp and vibrant.
- Add a splash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls with a side of steamed vegetables, a fried egg on top, or a drizzle of teriyaki sauce. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep!
Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls: A Quick, Flavorful, and Satisfying Meal
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice white, brown, or cauliflower rice
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 1 small onion sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce optional
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Green onions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: If you don’t have leftover rice, cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the vegetables and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Combine Everything: Return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet and toss to combine with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice among bowls. Top with the beef and pepper mixture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, and serve warm.