One-Pot Ground Beef Burrito Bowls – Easy, Hearty, and Packed with Flavor

Some meals just work for busy days, and this one-pot ground beef burrito bowl is exactly that kind of recipe. It’s hearty, comforting, full of bold flavor, and best of all—it comes together in a single pot. That means fewer dishes, less cleanup, and more time to actually enjoy dinner.

This recipe takes everything you love about a classic burrito and turns it into a cozy bowl that’s perfect for scooping, customizing, and serving straight from the stove. Seasoned ground beef forms the savory base, while rice cooks right in the same pot, soaking up all those rich, spiced flavors. Beans and corn add texture and heartiness, while tomatoes bring just enough brightness to balance it all out.

What makes these burrito bowls especially appealing is how adaptable they are. You can keep them simple for picky eaters or load them up with toppings for a build-your-own dinner night. They’re great for weeknights when you want something filling without a lot of effort, and they reheat beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep too.

This is the kind of recipe that feels comforting and familiar, but still exciting enough that everyone goes back for seconds. Warm, satisfying, and endlessly customizable—these one-pot ground beef burrito bowls are bound to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients:

• Olive oil
• Ground beef
• Yellow onion, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Long-grain white rice
• Beef broth
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Taco seasoning
• Black beans, drained and rinsed
• Corn kernels
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh cilantro (optional)
• Lime wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Stir in diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in rice, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper, coating the rice in the beef mixture.
6. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well.
7. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
8. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
9. Stir in black beans and corn. Cover and cook for 3–5 more minutes until heated through.
10. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
11. Fluff with a fork and garnish with cilantro if desired.
12. Serve warm with optional toppings.

Tips & Tricks:

• Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
• Rinse rice before cooking for fluffier texture.
• Stir once or twice while simmering to prevent sticking.
• Add extra broth if the rice needs more liquid.
• Finish with a squeeze of lime for brightness.

Variations:

• Cheesy Burrito Bowls: Stir in shredded cheese before serving.
• Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or chili powder.
• Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or zucchini with the onions.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice (add at the end).
• Southwest Style: Add cumin and smoked paprika for deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado, or salsa.
• Serve with tortilla chips on the side.
• Great for meal prep lunches.
• Perfect for casual family dinners or game nights.

Storage Information:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the rice.
• Not recommended for freezing due to rice texture changes.

FAQ:

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but increase cooking time and add extra broth as needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free unless you add cheese or sour cream.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—adjust taco seasoning to control spice level.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a large enough pot and increase liquids slightly.

History & Fun Facts:
Burrito bowls became popular as a fork-friendly alternative to wrapped burritos, offering all the flavor without the tortilla. One-pot versions take this concept even further by simplifying preparation and cleanup, making them a modern staple in busy households.