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Easy Make-Ahead Beef Burrito Bowls Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

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A flavorful and convenient make-ahead beef burrito bowl recipe perfect for busy weeknights, featuring seasoned ground beef, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and fresh toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1.5 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
  • Juice from 1 lime
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • Fresh salsa (such as medium-spicy pico de gallo)
  • Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
  • Avocado or guacamole
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Optional toppings: jalapeños, sliced green onions, chopped tomatoes, pickled red onions

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup (200 g) of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice with 2 cups (475 ml) water and a pinch of salt in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 18 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  2. While rice cooks, heat 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 tsp cumin, 1.5 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to evenly coat the beef with spices. Cook another 2 minutes to let flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and transfer to a bowl. Add juice from 1 lime and a handful of chopped fresh cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
  6. In meal prep containers or serving bowls, layer the cilantro-lime rice, seasoned beef, 1 cup (170 g) rinsed black beans, and your favorite toppings like salsa, shredded cheese, diced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
  7. If making ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To serve, enjoy cold or reheat gently in the microwave until warmed through.

Notes

If rice seems dry after refrigeration, sprinkle a little water over it before reheating to restore moisture. Avoid overheating the beef when reheating to prevent drying out. For dairy-free, omit cheese and sour cream or use plant-based alternatives. Cauliflower rice can be used as a low-carb substitute. Freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef burrito bowls, make-ahead meals, quick dinner, meal prep, ground beef recipe, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, easy weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/easy-make-ahead-beef-burrito-bowls-recipe-for-quick-weeknight-dinners/