Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving a cozy, flavorful dish that comes together in one pan and fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of sautéed beef and sweet peppers? These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are the ultimate answer to your weeknight dinner dilemma. Packed with juicy ground beef, tender bell peppers, and a simple blend of pantry spices, this recipe is served over fluffy rice for a wholesome, comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or feeding a hungry family on short notice, this dish delivers. It’s hearty enough to satisfy but flexible enough to tweak to your liking. You can keep it mild or turn up the heat, and it all comes together in under 30 minutes.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls a breeze, you’ll want to gather a few kitchen essentials that streamline the process:

• Large Nonstick Skillet or Saute Pan: This is your best friend for browning ground beef evenly and sautéing peppers without sticking or burning. A wide surface ensures everything cooks fast and thoroughly.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Essential for prepping the bell peppers, onions, and garlic with precision.
• Measuring Spoons: For adding spices in the right amounts, especially if you’re new to seasoning.
• Rice Cooker or Medium Pot: Use whatever you’re comfortable with to prepare fluffy, well-cooked rice while the beef mixture simmers.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps break up the beef and stir ingredients evenly without scratching your pan.

With these tools ready, the cooking process becomes simple, efficient, and — best of all — enjoyable.

---

Ingredients for the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

Every ingredient in this dish plays a delicious role:

• Ground Beef: The heart of this recipe. It adds rich flavor and satisfying texture. Choose lean beef for less grease.
• Green Bell Peppers: These bring a sweet crunch and balance out the richness of the meat.
• Red Bell Peppers: They add color and a slightly sweeter note compared to green peppers.
• Yellow Onion: When sautéed, it becomes sweet and aromatic, enhancing the savory base.
• Garlic: Just a couple cloves infuse a bold depth of flavor throughout.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami and ties all the savory elements together.
• Paprika: Lends a smoky, slightly spicy edge.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To season and bring out the best in each ingredient.
• Cooked White Rice: The base that soaks up all the juices from the beef and pepper mixture.

---

How To Make the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing the onions and bell peppers, and mincing your garlic. Having everything chopped and ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onions and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Stir and cook until fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 4: Add the Peppers

Toss in the green and red bell peppers. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until the peppers have softened but still have a bit of bite.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, black pepper, and pour in the soy sauce. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Let everything simmer for another 3–4 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Serve Over Rice

Spoon generous portions of the beef and pepper mixture over hot cooked rice. Serve immediately and enjoy.

---

Serving and Storing These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

These bowls are best served hot and fresh, straight from skillet to plate. For a bit of extra flair, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. A drizzle of sriracha or a fried egg on top also takes this from comfort food to a flavor-packed meal.

If you’re meal-prepping or storing leftovers, let the beef and pepper mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated in a microwave or skillet. Store rice separately to keep it from getting soggy.

For longer storage, freeze the beef and pepper mix (not the rice) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) works best because it has enough fat for flavor but won’t make the dish greasy. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken.

Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?

Absolutely. Brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice can be used as a nutritious alternative. Just be sure to cook them separately according to their specific instructions.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is quite mild as written. If you prefer more heat, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or swap in spicy peppers.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Mushrooms, zucchini, or shredded carrots work well here. Just sauté them along with the peppers.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, yes. Always check ingredient labels if you have dietary restrictions.

What toppings go well with this?

Chopped scallions, sesame seeds, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime juice all elevate the final bowl.

---

Want More Ground Beef Dinner Ideas?

If hearty meals like this are your thing, you’re in for a treat. The Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta brings together tender beef and pasta in a rich sauce for a satisfying plate. You might also enjoy the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce if you’re craving creamy comfort with a twist.

For something bolder, the Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt Recipe delivers melty indulgence in every bite, while the Easy Homemade Beefaroni taps into nostalgia with a simple yet satisfying finish. If you’re leaning more Tex-Mex, the Taco Bake Casserole is packed with familiar flavors and easy to prep for a crowd.

All these recipes pair well with rice, pasta, or even as stand-alone bowls — perfect for weekly meal rotation.

---

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner ideas board for next time. Just hit that Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to know how yours came out! Did you mix in more heat? Did you serve it with jasmine rice or go low-carb? Share your tweaks in the comments.

For more everyday recipes I make and love, check out my Pinterest: LadyPlate on Pinterest.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?