Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? This Tex-Mex Lean Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is a perfect choice, offering all the deliciousness of a burrito without the extra carbs. You’ll love how easy it is to customize this healthy burrito bowl recipe to your taste.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Lean Ground Beef: You can easily swap this for ground turkey or chicken.
- Black Beans: Pinto beans or kidney beans work well as an alternative.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn are all great options.
- Brown Rice: For a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice or quinoa.
- Salsa: Choose your favorite heat level or type of salsa.
- Avocado: Guacamole is a fantastic substitute for a creamier texture.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cooked brown rice per serving
- 1/2 cup salsa per serving
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro per serving
- 1/2 avocado, sliced or diced per serving
- Lime wedges, for serving
Spices:
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 (depending on toppings)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, measuring cups and spoons.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Brown Rice
Start by preparing your brown rice according to package directions. You can also use pre-cooked or leftover brown rice to save time. Set it aside once it’s ready.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3-5 minutes. This creates a fragrant base for your healthy burrito bowl.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep your healthy burrito bowl lean.
4. Season the Beef Mixture
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper with the cooked beef. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to become fragrant and coat the beef.
5. Add Beans and Corn
Mix in the rinsed black beans and corn kernels. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the beans and corn are heated through. Your Tex-Mex mixture is now ready!
6. Assemble Your Burrito Bowls
To assemble each healthy burrito bowl, start with a base of cooked brown rice. Top it generously with the Tex-Mex lean ground beef mixture. Finish with fresh salsa, chopped cilantro, and sliced avocado. Serve with lime wedges for a bright, zesty finish.
Variation Ideas:
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Creamy Topping: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a drizzle of a light dressing can add creaminess.
- Cheese Please: A sprinkle of shredded low-fat cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be a tasty addition.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover components of your healthy burrito bowl separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the beef and rice mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop, then add fresh toppings. This ensures everything stays fresh and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you prepare components ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the brown rice and the lean ground beef mixture a day or two in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Tex-Mex Lean Ground Beef Burrito Bowl is naturally gluten-free as long as all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What kind of salsa works best?
Any type of salsa you enjoy will work! Mild, medium, hot, or even a corn and black bean salsa would be delicious.
How can you make this spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the other spices, or include diced fresh jalapeños or a spicier salsa.
Can you freeze the leftovers?
You can freeze the cooked ground beef and bean mixture for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Do not freeze the rice, avocado, or cilantro.
What are some other healthy burrito bowl recipes you can try?
You can experiment with different proteins like chicken, shrimp, or plant-based options like tofu or extra beans to create other healthy burrito bowl recipes.
