This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a perfect balance of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures. With tender, juicy ground beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory umami-packed sauce, this dish comes together quickly for an easy weeknight meal.
It’s not only quick to prepare but also customizable—you can adjust the seasonings, swap in different vegetables, or even make it spicier. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and turn simple pantry ingredients into a delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Meal: Less mess, less cleanup.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add different vegetables, or swap beef for chicken or tofu.
- Nutritious & Balanced: A great mix of protein, vegetables, and grains.
Ingredients
For the Beef & Peppers:
- 1 lb ground beef (can substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Serving:
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Optional Garnishes: Sliced green onions, sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of sriracha
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, make sure to dice the bell peppers and onion, mince the garlic, and have all your ingredients measured and ready to go. Cooking will be much easier and more efficient with everything prepped.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics & Beef
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Stir occasionally and continue cooking until it’s fully browned and no longer pink.
Tip: If there is excess grease after cooking the beef, you can drain it to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
Step 3: Cook the Peppers & Add Seasonings
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced red and green bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but still retain a slight crunch.
- Add the ground ginger and mix well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
Step 4: Add the Sauce & Simmer
- Pour in the soy sauce and hoisin sauce, stirring everything together to ensure the flavors coat the beef and peppers.
- Allow the mixture to cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken slightly and absorb into the ingredients.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
- Spoon the beef and pepper mixture over bowls of warm, cooked rice.
- For extra flavor, garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Enjoy immediately, or store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips & Variations
Make It Healthier
- Use lean ground beef or swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb version.
Spice It Up
- Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Stir in chili garlic sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Add More Veggies
- Include broccoli, mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
- Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for added greens.
Turn It Into Meal Prep
- This dish is perfect for meal prepping! Divide into airtight containers with rice and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a perfect combination of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-packed flavors that the whole family will love. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and works great as a quick lunch or dinner.
Try it out and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!