Coming home after juggling a hectic day, I often crave something that feels both comforting and energizing—a meal that fuels without weighing me down. This high protein beef and rice bowl fits that craving perfectly. The moment the warm, spiced aroma of cumin and smoked paprika hits the kitchen, I’m already halfway to feeling relaxed.
One evening, I remember being halfway through unloading groceries when the smell of sizzling garlic and onion pulled me back to the stove. My mind drifted for a second—was that the timer? Or maybe I left the door open? Anyway, it was the kind of distraction that makes cooking feel less like a chore and more like a little daily adventure. The beef browned just right, mingling with crisp-tender broccoli and sweet bell peppers. The hint of lime juice stirred in at the end added this unexpected brightness that kept me coming back for more bites.
Why You’ll Love It:
- It’s a balanced meal packed with protein and fiber, thanks to lean ground beef and wholesome brown rice.
- The blend of spices creates layers of flavor without overwhelming the fresh vegetables.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps or rare ingredients.
- Prepping it doesn’t require fancy equipment, so it’s approachable even on a tired evening.
Sometimes, the simplicity is what makes it so satisfying. You’re not just eating to fill up, but to feel good about what you’ve put on your plate.
Print
High Protein Beef and Rice Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A nutritious and satisfying high-protein beef and rice bowl packed with lean ground beef, brown rice, and fresh vegetables, perfect for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
1 cup brown rice
2 cups water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Rinse the brown rice under cold water until water runs clear.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in the diced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the soy sauce and lime juice. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes to blend flavors.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro.
Fluff the cooked brown rice with a fork and divide it evenly among four bowls.
Top each bowl of rice with the beef and vegetable mixture.
Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Kitchen Notes: I usually use just a regular skillet and a medium saucepan—nothing fancy. When serving, this bowl pairs nicely with a crisp side salad or a quick pickle to cut through the rich beef flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, swapping the broccoli for green beans or adding a handful of chopped nuts on top can add a nice crunch. For a milder version, I sometimes skip the crushed red pepper flakes, but I haven’t tested all variations yet, so your mileage may vary.
FAQ:
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It stores well in the fridge for a few days, but freezing might change the texture of the vegetables.
Can I make this dairy-free? Absolutely—there’s no dairy involved, so it’s naturally suitable.
Give this bowl a try the next time you want a hearty, no-fuss meal that feels like a warm hug after a busy day.