Are you in the mood for a quick, satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor?
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice in one bowl of deliciousness.
It’s an easy one-pan recipe that will save you time and effort while delivering a punch of savory, slightly sweet, and slightly smoky flavors.
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe is how versatile it is—whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a cozy dinner for one, this rice bowl will leave everyone craving more.
So, grab your skillet and let’s dive into this hearty, flavorful dish!
Why We Love This Recipe
The Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl has everything you want in a satisfying meal.
It’s packed with protein, vibrant veggies, and carbs, creating a balanced and delicious meal in one bowl.
The combination of savory ground beef and sweet, tender bell peppers creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting.
Not only is this dish super tasty, but it’s also incredibly easy to make.
With simple ingredients and a short prep time, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Another reason to love this dish?
It’s endlessly customizable.
You can adjust the seasoning, swap in different vegetables, or even use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.
Ingredients
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
For the Rice Bowl
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
In a medium-sized pot, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil.
Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot.
Let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
If you prefer, you can use a rice cooker for perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet and add the diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the other side.
Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
The bell peppers should remain slightly crisp to add a nice texture to the dish.
Stir the beef and vegetables together to combine.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and red chili flakes.
Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—you might want to add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of salt.
Step 5: Assemble the Rice Bowl
To serve, scoop a generous portion of rice into each bowl.
Top with the beef and pepper mixture, ensuring you get plenty of the savory sauce in each serving.
Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl hot, and watch it disappear in no time!
It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl
Use Fresh Ingredients
The flavor of this dish relies on the freshness of the beef, vegetables, and seasonings.
Don’t Overcook the Bell Peppers
For the best texture, keep the bell peppers slightly crisp—they’ll add a nice crunch to the dish.
Adjust the Heat
If you like a little spice, don’t be afraid to increase the red chili flakes or add a splash of sriracha.
Cook the Rice Properly
Fluffy rice makes all the difference.
If possible, cook the rice ahead of time to let it cool slightly before assembling the dish.
Garnish Generously
The sesame seeds and green onions add a wonderful finishing touch.
Don’t skip them—they enhance both the flavor and the presentation.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Low-Carb Version: Swap the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter take on the dish.
Different Proteins: Try using ground chicken, turkey, or even shrimp for a new twist.
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms to boost the vegetable content.
Tangy Twist: Add a squeeze of lime juice or a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy flavor.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix in a bit of honey or brown sugar with the sauce for a sweet-spicy balance.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage
Allow the beef and pepper mixture to cool completely before storing.
Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Store the rice separately to maintain its texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the beef and pepper mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Reheat the rice in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
The Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is the perfect answer to busy nights or when you’re craving a meal that’s both hearty and healthy.
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.
It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and absolutely delicious.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers every single time.
So grab your skillet, chop those peppers, and treat yourself to a meal that’s as comforting as it is exciting.
Happy cooking!