This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is a tasty dish full of flavor! It features tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a bed of fluffy rice that makes every bite satisfying.
It’s super simple to make, and you can throw in any veggies you have on hand. I love piling it high with extra peppers—because who doesn’t want more crunch?
This bowl is great for a quick meal or a cozy dinner. Just mix everything in one bowl, and you’ve got yourself a delicious feast ready to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can use lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work well too!
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add vibrant color and flavor. Feel free to swap them out for other types like yellow or orange peppers for a sweeter taste. If you prefer, diced zucchini or mushrooms can also add a nice touch.
Green Onions: They bring a fresh crunch. I like using both the white and green parts as they offer different flavors. If you don’t have them, chopped chives or shallots could be a great substitute.
Soy Sauce: It’s essential for adding depth of flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a great alternative. Coconut aminos can work too for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Sesame Oil: This gives a delightful nutty aroma. If you’re out, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil, although it won’t have the same taste.
How Do I Cook the Beef Perfectly?
Cooking the beef is key to this dish. You want it browned with no excess grease. Start by heating your skillet or wok on medium-high heat and adding oil. Then add the minced garlic and ginger for a fragrant base.
- Once fragrant (about 30 seconds!), add the ground beef.
- Break it apart with a spatula and let it cook undisturbed for a minute before stirring.
- Cook until it’s browned (about 5-7 minutes), draining excess fat as needed for a less greasy bowl.
How to Make a Beef And Pepper Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Vegetables:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or jasmine)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 25 minutes to make, including the time to cook the rice and prepare the beef and peppers. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, set it aside to cool a bit while you work on the beef and pepper mixture.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or wok, heat about 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Sauté them for about 30 seconds or until they smell amazing and fragrant.
3. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked. If there’s too much fat in the pan, drain some of it off.
4. Add the Vegetables:
Now, stir in the diced red and green bell peppers along with the white parts of the green onions. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are nice and slightly tender.
5. Season the Mixture:
Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Stir it up well to combine all the flavors, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and heat through.
6. Serve the Bowl:
To serve, scoop a big generous amount of cooked rice into a bowl. Top it off with the tasty beef and pepper mixture. Don’t forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds on top and add the green parts of the sliced green onions to make it look lovely!
7. Enjoy!
Your Beef And Pepper Rice Bowl is all set! Grab a spoon and enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish while it’s warm!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! You can substitute brown rice for white rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time, so be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking it properly before adding it to the dish.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, try using crumbled tofu or a meat substitute like lentils or beyond meat. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for any substitute you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover beef and pepper mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water in a pan over low heat to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, adding firmer vegetables a bit earlier in the process to ensure they cook through.
