Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this beef and pepper rice bowl will become a favorite.
-
Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
-
Ready in under 25 minutes.
-
Savory and colorful. Packed with flavor and vegetables.
-
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves beef and rice.
-
Budget-friendly. Ground beef, peppers, and rice are inexpensive.
-
Perfect for busy weeknights.
-
Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
-
1 lb ground beef
-
1 red bell pepper, diced
-
1 green bell pepper, diced
-
1 small onion, diced
-
3 cups cooked white or brown rice
-
1/4 cup soy sauce
-
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
-
1 tablespoon sesame oil
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
-
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
-
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Ingredient Notes
Ground beef: Use lean ground beef.
Bell peppers: Use red and green bell peppers.
Onion: Use a small onion.
Rice: Use cooked white or brown rice.
Soy sauce and hoisin sauce: Add savory flavor.
Sesame oil: Adds nutty flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Add the diced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Add the Sauces and Seasonings
Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix thoroughly.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with green onions and serve warm.
How to Serve Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
This savory rice bowl is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Fried Egg: Top with a fried egg.
With Sriracha: Add a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with cilantro or parsley.
With Sesame Seeds: Top with toasted sesame seeds.
With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Chicken: Use ground chicken.
Make It with Different Vegetables: Add carrots or mushrooms.
Make It with Different Rice: Use jasmine or cauliflower rice.
Make It with Spice: Add extra red pepper flakes.
Make It with Ginger: Add fresh grated ginger.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce.
Make It with Brown Rice: Use brown rice for extra fiber.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Drain the beef well. Excess grease can make the dish greasy.
Do not overcook the vegetables. They should be tender-crisp.
Stir in the rice thoroughly. This ensures even coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can be used.
Can I use a different vegetable?
Yes. Carrots or mushrooms can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Teriyaki sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my dish dry?
The meat may have been too lean. Add a splash of broth.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add carrots or mushrooms.
Can I use a different rice?
Yes. Brown or jasmine rice can be used.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours.
The Beauty of Rice Bowls
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, savory rice bowl that comes together in minutes. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This beef and pepper rice bowl is a celebration of all those things.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep peppers, onion, and rice in your fridge and pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings