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Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls (Easy Weeknight Favorite!)


  • Author: Alice Wellington
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Tender ground beef is simmered with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a savory soy-garlic sauce, then served over fluffy rice for a cozy, satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Ideal for meal prep, family dinners, or anyone craving an easy homemade comfort dish.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (85/15 recommended for flavor)

1 tablespoon butter

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for heat)

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 tablespoons soy sauce

½ teaspoon black pepper

Salt, to taste

3 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)

1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for drizzling)

Green onions, sliced thin (for garnish)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Prep Ingredients: Chop the onions, peppers, and garlic before starting.

  2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, peppers, and jalapeño. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.

  3. Brown the Beef: Push veggies to one side and add ground beef. Break apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

  4. Season: Stir in garlic, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.

  5. Assemble Bowls: Serve the beef-and-pepper mixture over warm rice. Drizzle with sesame oil and top with green onions and sesame seeds.

  6. Optional: Add a fried egg or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor.

Notes

Make-Ahead: Store beef mixture and rice separately for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

Freeze: Beef mixture freezes up to 2 months.

Swap It: Try turkey, chicken, or tofu instead of beef.

Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

For Meal Prep: Divide into individual containers with rice and veggies for quick weekday lunches.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: : 1 bowl
  • Calories: ~450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls, easy dinner, ground beef recipes, rice bowls, 30-minute meals, weeknight dinners