Craving a delicious and wholesome meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Burrito Bowl recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beef Roast: A chuck roast or round roast works best for shredding.
- Salsa: Use your favorite mild or medium salsa.
- Broth: Beef broth or vegetable broth will add moisture and flavor.
- Beans: Black beans are classic, but pinto beans are also delicious.
- Corn: Frozen or canned corn is fine.
- Rice: Brown rice or quinoa makes a healthy base. You can also use white rice.
- Toppings: Avocado, fresh cilantro, Greek yogurt, or a squeeze of lime elevate your bowl.
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 2-3 pound beef chuck roast or round roast
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bowls:
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained, or 1 cup frozen corn
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa, for serving
Optional Toppings:
- Diced avocado
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Greek yogurt (plain)
- Shredded lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high
- Total time: 3-8 hours
- Servings: 4-6
- Tools needed: Slow cooker, forks for shredding
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef
Pat your beef roast dry and season it generously with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned beef in your slow cooker.
2. Add the Liquids and Spices
Pour the beef broth and salsa over the beef. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Slow Cook the Beef
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Beef
Carefully remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.
5. Combine with Beans and Corn
Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker with the cooking liquid. Stir in the rinsed black beans and corn. Let it heat through for about 10-15 minutes.
6. Assemble Your Healthy Burrito Bowl
Serve the flavorful shredded beef mixture over a bed of cooked brown rice or quinoa. Top with your favorite additions like diced avocado, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a truly satisfying Healthy Burrito Bowl.
Variation Ideas:
- Add diced bell peppers or onions to the slow cooker for more vegetables.
- Use different types of beans, like pinto beans.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño.
- Make it a vegetarian healthy burrito bowl by substituting the beef with sweet potatoes and chickpeas.
- Add a squeeze of orange juice for a hint of sweetness to the beef.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover shredded beef mixture and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add fresh toppings when serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before and start the slow cooker in the morning.
What kind of beef is best for shredding?
A chuck roast or round roast works wonderfully for this recipe.
How can you make this spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker with the beef.
Can you freeze the shredded beef?
Yes, once cooled, store the shredded beef in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
What are some other healthy burrito bowl recipes you can try?
Consider variations with chicken, ground turkey, or roasted vegetables.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and salsa are gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
