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 lb lean ground beef; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/2 cup shredded cheese; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 lime, juiced; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Favorites

I can’t get enough of this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl! It’s not only satisfying but packed with nutritious ingredients that fuel my day. The combination of lean ground beef, black beans, and brown rice creates a delicious foundation, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and flavor. I love how easy it is to customize with toppings like avocado and salsa, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weekdays. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine.

Created by

Chloe Baker

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:56:36.393Z

When I first made this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl, I was surprised by how satisfying each bite was. The seasoned ground beef paired with the black beans provides a protein punch, making it a great post-workout meal. I particularly love adding lime juice to brighten up the flavors; it really takes the whole dish to another level!

Over time, I've experimented with various toppings and found that fresh cilantro and diced jalapeños elevate the taste immensely. This bowl is a canvas for your creativity, and I've discovered that prepping in bulk means delicious lunches all week long. You won't regret giving this recipe a try!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Packed with protein for muscle recovery
Customizable with your favorite toppings
Healthy and wholesome for any meal

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Seasoned Beef

The key to a flavorful beef in this burrito bowl lies in the seasoning. I recommend using freshly ground spices if possible, as they provide a more vibrant flavor than pre-ground options. When you add the chili powder and cumin, give the beef enough time to soak in those spices; a good 3-4 minutes of cooking should suffice before adding the beans and corn. You want to see the spices coat the beef evenly, turning it a rich, inviting color.

Always taste your beef mixture before serving. It's essential to balance the flavors with salt and pepper, as this can elevate the entire bowl. If you find it needs more kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. A small adjustment can drastically enhance the dish, making sure the flavors pop without overwhelming the original taste.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable, so feel free to make substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives still provide ample protein while reducing fat content. If you’re looking to incorporate more fiber, consider using quinoa instead of brown rice for a nutty flavor and different texture.

If you want to elevate your burrito bowl with additional flavors, experiment with diced jalapeños for some heat or add a can of diced tomatoes to the beef mixture for added moisture and richness. For a vegan option, you could replace the beef with mushrooms or tempeh and omit the cheese, ensuring you still enjoy a satisfying, protein-rich meal.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup corn kernels
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup shredded cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 lime, juiced
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.

Season the Beef

Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir well, then add black beans and corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.

Prepare the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer the cooked brown rice, seasoned beef mixture, cherry tomatoes, and diced red bell pepper.

Add Toppings

Top each bowl with avocado slices, shredded cheese, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your burrito bowl with your favorite toppings like sour cream or jalapeños for extra heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl is how well it holds up for meal prep. You can cook the beef and beans mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it's steaming hot.

You can also freeze portions of the beef and black bean mixture for up to 3 months. Just make sure to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Prepare your rice and chop your vegetables fresh to maintain their texture and flavor, ensuring a tasty meal even after being prepped ahead of time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl experience, consider serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, which adds a creamy element that balances the dish's textures. Adding fresh salsa can also give it a lively kick while introducing additional vegetables and flavors.

For an even heartier meal, I often serve my bowls with tortilla chips on the side, making it a fun and crunchy addition. If you're feeling adventurous, an additional sprinkle of chipotle powder or a drizzle of chipotle sauce enhances smokiness and depth, turning a simple burrito bowl into a gourmet experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, using ground turkey is a healthier alternative and still provides plenty of protein.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils or additional black beans.

→ Can I prepare this bowl in advance?

Absolutely! Just store the components separately in the refrigerator and assemble when ready to eat.

→ What’s a good side dish to serve with this bowl?

A simple green salad or guacamole complements the flavors perfectly!