Need a hearty, quick, and nutritious meal all in one bowl? This Ground Beef & Veggie Stir-Fry Rice Bowl is the perfect solution. It brings together savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and fluffy rice, all seasoned simply and cooked in under 20 minutes. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep, this recipe balances flavor, nutrition, and ease. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable based on what you’ve got in the fridge!
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white or jasmine rice
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots)
- 1 egg, scrambled
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: soy sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5–6 minutes.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove beef from pan and set aside.
Step 2: Scramble the Egg
- In the same skillet, add a touch of butter or oil and scramble the egg until cooked through. Remove and keep aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- Add a little more oil to the skillet. Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables.
- Cook over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
- Return the beef and scrambled egg to the skillet and combine with the veggies.
- Stir in the cooked rice and optional soy or hot sauce to taste. Heat until everything is evenly mixed and warmed through.
- Serve hot in a bowl and enjoy!
Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey, pork, or plant-based crumbles.
- Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds for garnish.
- Use fresh vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms instead of frozen.
- Drizzle with teriyaki sauce or sriracha for added zing.
Cooking Note
- Pre-cook your rice the day before for quicker meal assembly.
- Frozen vegetables work great but pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Use a nonstick skillet for easy cleanup and better results with eggs.
Serving Suggestions
This stir-fry bowl is ideal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side of cucumber salad or steamed edamame. For a touch of crunch, add crushed peanuts or fried onions. Pair with a citrusy iced tea or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or skillet over medium heat with a splash of water. This recipe also works great for meal prepping individual portions for the week.
Timing
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 470
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 380mg
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Use brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of white rice. Choose lean ground beef or ground turkey for a lower-fat option. Reduce oil usage and go light on the soy sauce to cut down on sodium. Add more veggies to increase fiber and nutrient content.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining fat from beef: Drain excess grease for a lighter bowl.
- Overcrowding the pan: Cook in batches if needed to prevent steaming instead of frying.
- Skipping seasoning: Garlic and onion powder bring simple but crucial flavor depth.
- Adding rice too soon: Combine rice at the end to avoid sogginess.
Conclusion
Fast, flavorful, and flexible, this Ground Beef & Veggie Stir-Fry Rice Bowl delivers a satisfying meal with minimal ingredients. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re just craving something hearty and homemade. Customize it your way and enjoy every comforting bite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white?
A: Absolutely! Brown rice adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Q2: What other veggies work in this recipe?
A: Try zucchini, bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach for variety.
Q3: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Yes! Store in containers and reheat as needed throughout the week.
Q4: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Very! Adjust spices to taste and it’s a hit with little ones too.
Ground Beef & Veggie Stir-Fry Rice Bowl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Ground Beef & Veggie Stir-Fry Rice Bowl is a quick, protein-packed meal with comforting flavors and colorful vegetables. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or easy meal prep in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
1/2 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked white or jasmine rice
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots)
1 egg, scrambled
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: soy sauce or hot sauce for extra flavor
Instructions
1. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5–6 minutes.
2. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then remove from skillet.
3. In the same pan, scramble the egg until cooked through and set aside.
4. Add a little more oil, then stir-fry frozen mixed veggies for 4–5 minutes until tender.
5. Return beef and scrambled egg to skillet and stir together.
6. Add cooked rice and mix everything thoroughly.
7. Drizzle in soy sauce or hot sauce to taste.
8. Stir until heated through and evenly combined.
9. Serve warm in a bowl.
Notes
Pre-cook your rice to save time.
Drain beef if it’s too greasy for a lighter bowl.
Pat veggies dry after thawing to avoid extra moisture.
Customize with sauces or spices you love.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: ground beef rice bowl, stir-fry rice bowl, easy meal prep, beef and veggies