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) pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 avocado, diced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges, for serving; Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Food

I love the vibrant flavors and hearty ingredients in my High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl. It's a perfect dish that resonates with my busy lifestyle while still being nutritious and satisfying. Cooking is a joy when you can throw together such wholesome ingredients like lean beef, beans, and fresh veggies. We've crafted this recipe to not only be packed with protein but to burst with taste too! Join me as we build this delicious bowl that is great for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner.

Created by

Dahlia Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:35:34.942Z

This burrito bowl recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years. I’ve experimented with different ingredients and found that using lean ground beef, pinto beans, and brown rice creates a fantastic balance of protein and flavor.

What truly elevates this dish is the fresh toppings—cilantro, lime, and avocado add a refreshing twist that brings everything together. I've also discovered that marinating the beef in spices beforehand makes all the difference in taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with high-quality protein from lean beef and beans
Customizable with your favorite toppings for a personal touch
Perfect for meal preps and a crowd-pleasing dish

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl lies in the lean ground beef, which provides not only protein but also essential B vitamins, iron, and zinc. These nutrients are vital for energy and metabolism. When selecting ground beef, look for an 85/15 or 90/10 blend for a balance of flavor and reduced fat. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can also be substituted, though they may require adjusted cooking times to avoid drying out.

Pinto beans are a crucial component that not only adds protein but also fiber, keeping you satisfied longer. They help stabilize blood sugar levels, which is essential for active lifestyles. If pinto beans aren't available, black beans or kidney beans make excellent alternatives, and they bring unique flavors and textures to the bowl. Rinsing canned beans is important, as it reduces sodium content and removes the slimy texture that can sometimes cling to them.

Flavor Layering Techniques

Seasoning the beef with chili powder and cumin enriches the dish with a warm, earthy flavor profile. Be sure to toast the spices briefly in the pan with the beef before adding other ingredients; this technique enhances the aromatic oils of the spices, resulting in a more robust flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Taste as you go—this is key to achieving the perfect balance for your palate.

Assembling the bowl allows for personal creativity. Layering the ingredients in this specified order not only creates a feast for the eyes but also ensures every bite bursts with different flavors and textures. I recommend using a clear bowl for deeper visual appeal. To enhance freshness, add your toppings such as diced avocado and tomatoes right before serving, which keeps them vibrant. If you're meal prepping, store ingredients separately to maintain freshness until you're ready to enjoy your bowl.

Ingredients

For the Beef Burrito Bowl

1 pound lean ground beef
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings

1 avocado, diced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges, for serving
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)

Mix and match toppings to suit your taste!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Season the Beef

Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef. Mix well and let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, layer cooked brown rice, followed by the seasoned beef, pinto beans, and corn. Top with diced tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.

Serve

Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and add sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired. Enjoy!

This bowl is not only filling but also visually appealing!

Pro Tips

Feel free to use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, replace the beef with extra beans or grilled vegetables.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This High Protein Beef Burrito Bowl is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the beef and beans in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Cooked brown rice can also be batch-cooked and stored separately. To reheat, warm the beef and beans on the stovetop over medium heat until just heated through. The rice can be reheated in a microwave for ease, making weeknight dinners effortless.

For longer storage, consider freezing the beef mixture in portion-sized containers. When freezing, leave a little space for expansion as the mixture cools. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you'll have a quick, satisfying meal ready without fuss.

Serving Variations

While this burrito bowl is delicious as-is, feel free to customize it for variety. You can add a dollop of salsa, or sprinkle some shredded cheese for a creamier texture. Consider incorporating spicy pickled jalapeños or sliced radishes for extra crunch and zing. If you're going for a veggie-rich option, adding sautéed bell peppers or zucchini would work beautifully—I often throw these in with the beef for extra nutrients without much extra work.

For those watching their carb intake, replace brown rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-calorie alternative that absorbs flavors well. It cooks quickly—just sauté it for about 5-7 minutes until tender—and adds a refreshing twist to the traditional bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and rice in advance. Store each component separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you ensure your seasoning and other products are gluten-free, this recipe is entirely gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for brown rice?

You can use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or white rice if you prefer.

→ Can I freeze the burrito bowl?

Yes, the components can be frozen. Just make sure to separate them and store in airtight containers.