Ground Beef Rice Bowl

The Ground Beef Rice Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and vibrant toppings like vegetables and sauces. It’s a well-balanced, satisfying meal that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rice bowl is a perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or using up pantry staples. The savory, slightly sweet beef pairs beautifully with rice and fresh toppings, making every bite hearty and satisfying without being heavy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Cooked white or brown rice
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, chopped
• Ginger (fresh or ground)
• Brown sugar or honey
• Sesame oil
• Green onions
• Carrots, shredded or julienned
• Cucumber slices or pickled vegetables (optional)
• Sriracha or other hot sauce (optional)
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar or honey. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Serve beef over warm rice.
5. Top with green onions, carrots, cucumbers, sesame seeds, and hot sauce as desired.
6. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Korean-style: Add gochujang or kimchi for extra flavor.
• Egg topping: Add a fried or soft-boiled egg on top.
• Low-carb: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage.
• Different meats: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store rice and beef separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Microwave or heat on the stove with a splash of water or soy sauce.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked beef mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep and can be assembled quickly when needed.

Can I use leftover rice?

Absolutely. Day-old rice works well for this recipe.

What vegetables can I add?

Cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, spinach, and edamame are all great options.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add spice with sriracha or chili flakes.

Can I add an egg?

Yes, a fried or poached egg adds richness and protein.

Can I use jasmine or basmati rice?

Yes, any cooked rice works well depending on your preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I cook this in one pot?

The beef mixture can be made in one pan; rice can be prepared separately or reused.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container and consume within 3–4 days.

What sauce goes well with this?

Soy sauce, sriracha, spicy mayo, or teriyaki sauce all work well as toppings.

Conclusion

The Ground Beef Rice Bowl is a fast, adaptable, and deeply flavorful meal that suits any schedule. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, meal prep idea, or something hearty yet customizable, this dish delivers taste and convenience in one bowl.

Ground Beef Rice Bowl

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

The Ground Beef Rice Bowl is a fast and flavorful meal featuring savory-sweet ground beef over fluffy rice, topped with crisp vegetables and optional sauces—perfect for quick dinners or meal prep.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh grated ginger or 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup shredded or julienned carrots
• 1/2 cup cucumber slices or pickled vegetables (optional)
• Sriracha or other hot sauce (optional)
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and brown sugar or honey. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Divide warm rice into bowls and spoon beef mixture over the top.
5. Add toppings such as green onions, carrots, cucumber slices, sesame seeds, and hot sauce as desired.
6. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Add gochujang or kimchi for a Korean-style twist.
• Top with a fried or soft-boiled egg for extra richness.
• Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used instead of beef.
• Store rice and beef separately to keep textures fresh during reheating.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 rice bowl
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg