High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl

Name: High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup brown rice, cooked; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 lime, cut into wedges; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

When it comes to satisfying meals, I absolutely love crafting my High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl. It’s packed with flavor and can be customized to suit any taste. Every time I prepare this dish, I appreciate how the spices meld perfectly with the beef while the fresh toppings add a crunch that makes each bite delightful. Plus, knowing it's high in protein makes it a guilt-free indulgence for my family and me, whether we're looking for lunch or dinner options.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:43:34.990Z

I remember the first time I made this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl for friends who were visiting. Everyone raved about how hearty and fulfilling it was! The combination of lean ground beef with kidney beans not only delivers an excellent protein punch but also keeps you full longer. I love incorporating a mix of spices, which creates a taste that really stands out.

To ensure my burrito bowl has a fresh twist, I always make sure to add a variety of toppings. From diced avocados to zesty lime juice, each ingredient plays a role in elevating the dish. A fantastic tip I discovered is to toast the spices briefly before adding meat; it really enhances the flavor profile!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein that supports muscle growth
Versatile ingredients allow for endless customization
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Ingredient Insights

The choice of lean ground beef is essential for creating a high-protein meal without excess fat. Opt for 90% lean or higher to keep the dish healthy. This allows you to enjoy a rich flavor without the greasiness that can come with fattier cuts. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes that still provide protein without compromising taste.

Kidney beans not only contribute to the protein content but also add fiber, which enhances the dish's overall nutritional profile. Their smooth texture balances the beef while soaking up the spices beautifully. If you want to switch it up, black beans or pinto beans can work well too, offering a different flavor profile that complements the other components.

Technique Tips

When cooking the beef, make sure to break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon, which ensures even cooking and seasoning distribution. Look for a rich brown color to confirm it’s well-cooked; this typically takes about 8-10 minutes over medium heat. If your beef releases too much liquid, drain off the excess fat to keep the mixture from becoming soggy before adding the beans and corn.

Incorporating the beans and corn after browning the beef allows them to absorb the seasonings. This mingling step should be done for about 5 minutes. Keep the heat at medium-low to prevent scorching the beans while providing enough time for the flavors to fuse. If you notice it becoming too dry, a splash of water can help reinstate moisture without compromising the taste.

Serving and Storage Ideas

To serve, I recommend presenting the burrito bowls family-style with all toppings available so everyone can customize their own. This not only makes the meal more interactive but also caters to individual preferences. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of cheese can elevate the taste, making every bite even more enjoyable. Consider picking fresh tomatillo salsa and sliced jalapeños for those who appreciate extra spice.

If you prepare this dish in bulk, it stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just keep the toppings separate until serving to maintain their freshness and crunch. To reheat, simply warm the beef mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water if it dries out. Alternatively, you can freeze the beef and bean mixture for up to three months for a quick meal later.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your burrito bowl.

For the Beef Bowl

1 pound lean ground beef
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup brown rice, cooked
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 avocado, sliced
1 lime, cut into wedges
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to add your favorite toppings for a personal touch!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious burrito bowl.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Beans and Corn

Stir in the kidney beans and corn into the beef mixture. Cook together for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Assemble the Bowl

Scoop the cooked brown rice into each serving bowl. Top with the beef mixture, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and avocado slices.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish each bowl with lime wedges and sprinkle fresh cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This delicious burrito bowl is perfect for meal prep or a quick family dinner.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize with your favorite beans or veggies! For extra flavor, try roasting the vegetables before adding them to the bowl.

Healthy Customizations

For a lower-carb option, consider replacing brown rice with cauliflower rice. It cooks quickly and absorbs the spices nicely while drastically reducing the carbohydrate count. You can sauté it in a skillet with a tablespoon of oil for about 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly golden, adding a delightful crunch against the softness of the beef and beans.

If you're looking to sneak in more vegetables, feel free to add chopped bell peppers or zucchini into the beef mixture. These will cook down nicely, adding flavor and an extra dose of nutrients without overwhelming the overall flavor profile. Aim for around one cup of veggies, chopped small, for even cooking.

Flavor Variations

For a smokier version of the dish, consider adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder along with the chili powder. They bring a depth of flavor that enhances the beef and makes it even more satisfying. Just a teaspoon or two will do; taste as you go to strike the right balance. You can also adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or fewer seasonings.

Should you want to give your burrito bowl a zestier twist, try mixing in some taco seasoning into the beef while cooking. This is a fantastic option if you have a favorite pre-mixed blend at home, as it simplifies the process while still delivering that robust, savory flavor profile typical of burrito bowls.

Quick Cooking Tips

If time is short, you can easily substitute the brown rice for pre-cooked rice or microwaveable rice packets. Just be sure to warm them according to package instructions just before serving. This can cut down your total cooking time significantly, allowing you to enjoy this delightful meal on even the busiest of evenings.

To streamline the assembly process, chop all your toppings while the beef is cooking. Having your toppings prepared and at the ready ensures that you can build your bowls quickly once everything is ready. I often find it helpful to group similar items for easy access during assembly, enhancing both fun and efficiency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or additional beans.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the beef and prep the toppings a day in advance for easy assembly at mealtime.

→ What’s a good substitute for rice?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice makes a great low-carb alternative!