Beef and pepper rice bowls are the perfect mix of convenience and flavor. With savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice, this one-bowl dinner is hearty, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet tasty enough to feel like a treat.
I love creating meals that pack bold flavors into simple steps. If you’re a fan of easy comfort food dinners like my garlic mushroom pasta, you’ll appreciate how these rice bowls bring together fresh veggies and protein in one cozy, balanced dish.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with colorful veggies that add nutrition and flavor.
- Versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your family’s tastes.
- Great for meal prep; make-ahead freezer beef and pepper bowls save time.
- Family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy!
Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and easy recipe for Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeno, diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup soy sauce (can use low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- Optional: rice
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and jalapeno. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in the soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve the beef mixture over cooked rice, if desired.
Notes
- This dish can be made ahead and frozen for later use.
- For a low-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeno.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter: This adds a rich flavor to the dish and helps sauté the vegetables perfectly.
- Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
- Green Bell Pepper: This pepper adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
- Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and vibrant, it complements the green bell pepper and adds a lovely contrast.
- Jalapeno: For those who enjoy a little heat, jalapeno adds a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your taste!
- Ground Beef: The star of the show! It’s hearty and filling, making this dish satisfying for the whole family.
- Soy Sauce: This savory sauce brings umami flavor to the beef and vegetables. Low-sodium options are available for a healthier choice.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder adds aromatic flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth to the flavor profile.
- Optional: Rice: Serve the beef mixture over cooked rice for a classic touch. You can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delicious Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls. This recipe is straightforward, and I promise it will become a favorite in your home. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial because the butter not only adds flavor but also helps to sauté the vegetables evenly. As it melts, you’ll notice that delightful aroma filling your kitchen, setting the stage for a fantastic meal.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the butter is melted, toss in the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and jalapeno. Sauté these vibrant veggies until they’re tender, about 5-7 minutes. The colors will brighten, and the aromas will dance around your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left in the meat for safety. This step is where the magic happens, as the beef absorbs all those wonderful flavors from the sautéed veggies.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Now it’s time to season! Stir in ½ cup of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of black pepper. Let this mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes. The soy sauce will create a savory glaze that coats the beef and veggies, making every bite irresistible.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve the beef mixture over cooked rice, if desired. You can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the flavors of the vegetables.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less jalapeno.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for easy reheating the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great for easy cleanup.
- Spatula: Use a wooden or silicone spatula to prevent scratching your skillet.
- Cutting board: A sturdy board is essential for chopping veggies.
- Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes prep quick and easy.
- Measuring cups: Handy for accurate ingredient portions.
Variations To Try
- For a spicy twist, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Try adding other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh, and use soy sauce or tamari for flavor.
- Experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or hoisin, for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls with a side of steamed broccoli for a nutritious boost.
- A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Serve with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water to cleanse the palate.
- For presentation, garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a pop of color.
FAQs about Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
As you embark on your culinary adventure with Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way!
Can I make these Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These quick weeknight beef rice bowls are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully. For a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tofu or tempeh. Both options will still deliver a delicious flavor in your beef and bell pepper rice bowl.
How can I make this dish low-carb?
For a low-carb cauliflower rice beef bowl, simply replace traditional rice with cauliflower rice. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the same flavors while keeping the carbs in check!
Can I freeze the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls?
Yes! These make-ahead freezer beef and pepper bowls are great for busy days. Just let the mixture cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
What sides pair well with Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls?
These bowls are versatile! A fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables make excellent sides. You could also serve them with a light soup for a complete meal. Enjoy experimenting!
Conclusion
These beef and pepper rice bowls prove that quick dinners can still be delicious and nourishing. With tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice, each bite bursts with flavor and comfort. It’s a recipe that makes weeknights easier while still bringing everyone around the table.
Looking for more flavorful sides or pairings? Try my crispy fried mushrooms appetizer or my savory roasted mushrooms with garlic and thyme. Both make fantastic complements to these bowls.
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