High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl

Name: High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice (brown or white); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1 cup lettuce, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Sour cream; Salsa; Cilantro; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Wholesome Favorites

I absolutely love making this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl when I want something satisfying and nourishing. It's packed with flavor and protein, making it perfect for my post-workout meal. The combination of seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and creamy avocado comes together beautifully in a single bowl. Plus, I can customize it with my favorite toppings, allowing me to enjoy a personalized and hearty meal. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress my family and friends!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:21:35.036Z

One of my favorite aspects of the High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl is its versatility. I can easily swap ingredients based on my cravings or what I have in the fridge. The key to a delicious bowl is seasoning the beef well; I recommend using cumin and chili powder for that authentic flavor. Every time I prepare this dish, it feels like a delicious reward after a long day.

Another tip I swear by is to cook the beans and rice just right. I like to undercook them slightly, as they continue to soften when mixed in with the warm beef and other ingredients. This guarantees a delightful texture with every bite. I've hosted many gatherings where this dish has stolen the spotlight!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with protein to fuel your day
Customizable with endless topping options
Satisfying and delicious for the whole family

The Power of Protein

In this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl, ground beef serves not just as the main protein source but also enhances the flavor throughout the dish. When choosing ground beef, opt for lean varieties like 90% or 93% to keep the bowl hearty without excessive grease. The seasoning blend of cumin and chili powder helps to amplify the beef's natural taste, giving each bite a warm and comforting flavor profile.

This dish combines other protein-rich ingredients like black beans, which also provide fiber to aid digestion. Incorporating both beef and beans means you get a variety of textures, from the tender meat to the firm beans. If you’re looking for alternatives, lean turkey or even plant-based crumbles can work well while offering similar protein levels.

Customization is Key

One of the best aspects of the burrito bowl is its versatility. Start with the base of rice, but consider mixing it up by using cauliflower rice or quinoa for an extra nutritional boost. The choice of cheese can also alter the flavor; try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or a vegan cheese option for a dairy-free alternative.

For assembly, arrange the layers artfully to keep flavors well-distributed. By adding the cooler ingredients like lettuce and avocado last, they maintain their fresh crunch, contrasting nicely with the warmth of the beef and beans. You can even prepare individual toppings in small bowls, allowing everyone to customize their own bowls at the table—a fun and interactive way to serve dinner!

Ingredients

For the Burrito Bowl

1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 cup lettuce, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

Sour cream
Salsa
Cilantro
Lime wedges

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, layer the cooked rice at the bottom. Add a generous serving of the seasoned beef, followed by black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.

Add Fresh Ingredients

Top the bowl with avocado slices and chopped lettuce. Serve with your choice of optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, cilantro, and lime wedges.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider marinating the beef in your favorite spices for a few hours before cooking. You can also add sautéed peppers and onions for additional taste and texture.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from your High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the ingredients from getting soggy, consider storing the components separately, especially the beef, rice, and fresh toppings. When reheating, warm the beef and rice mixture in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

If you're planning to keep this dish longer, consider freezing it. Pack the beef and rice together in a freezer-safe container, and it should last up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm through as described above for best results. This makes for an easy meal on busy nights!

Serving Suggestions

This burrito bowl pairs wonderfully with a side of tortilla chips and fresh salsa for a satisfying meal. You can also complement it with a refreshing drink—maybe some iced tea or a bubbly limeade. If you're hosting a gathering, consider making a big batch and setting up a burrito bowl bar with various toppings, encouraging guests to personalize their bowls.

For a lighter version, try turning your burrito bowl into a salad by substituting lettuce for the rice and using light vinaigrette as a dressing. This keeps all the same flavors but offers a fresh twist, making it a perfect option for warm weather. Don't forget, the assembly is as much part of the fun as the eating!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide plenty of protein.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, quinoa, or tofu, and add more veggies.

→ What can I use instead of rice?

Consider using cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or barley for a nutty flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.