Beef And Veggie Rice Bowl

Name: Beef And Veggie Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown); 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Recipes

I love preparing a Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl when I want a quick meal packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and fluffy rice creates a satisfying dish that warms the soul. What I appreciate most about this recipe is its versatility—you can mix and match veggies based on what you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up leftovers while still getting a hearty, well-balanced meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:43:36.029Z

When I first created this Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl, I wanted something that could be both fulfilling and quick to make. I experimented with various sauces and seasonings until I found the perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet that brings the dish to life. The beef remains juicy thanks to a quick sear, locking in all the flavors, while the veggies retain their crunch.

I've found that using a mixture of vibrant vegetables not only makes the dish visually appealing but also enhances the nutritional value. Whether it’s bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, each bite bursts with freshness. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds elevates the overall flavor and adds a delightful texture.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and satisfying one-bowl meal
Packed with colorful, crunchy vegetables
Customizable to fit your taste or pantry

Unlocking the Flavor

The combination of garlic and ginger in this recipe is not only aromatic but also essential for layering flavor in your Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl. Sautéing these ingredients before adding the beef helps release their essential oils and enhances the overall taste of the dish. Aim to cook them until they’re fragrant—around one minute on medium heat is usually sufficient—but keep an eye on them to avoid any burning.

Using sesame oil adds a nutty richness that elevates the dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with another oil, but keep in mind that it won’t impart the same depth of flavor. To really unlock the oil's potential, drizzle it in just before finishing the dish, as this method retains its aromatic qualities.

Perfecting the Rice

Choosing the right type of rice can significantly impact the final texture of your meal. While both white and brown rice work well, brown rice offers extra fiber and a nuttier taste. If you opt for brown rice, consider cooking it in advance since it typically takes longer to prepare—about 45 minutes for perfectly fluffy grains.

For the best rice texture, ensure your rice is laid out in a thin layer on the bottom of your bowl. The warm beef and veggies will slightly steam the rice, creating a comforting base without making it mushy. If you have leftover rice, feel free to use it; just give it a quick stir-fry to heat it through before serving to maintain its fluffy consistency.

Customizing Your Bowl

The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. Feel free to use any combination of vegetables based on your preferences or what you have in the fridge. Zucchini, snap peas, or even chopped spinach can be excellent additions. The goal is to achieve a balance of flavors and textures, so aim for a mix of crunchy and tender vegetables.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider swapping out the ground beef for textured vegetable protein or mushrooms. You'll want to cook them just until browned and tender, which often means reducing the stir-frying time to prevent overcooking. This substitution allows those who prefer plant-based meals to enjoy a similar satisfaction from this delicious rice bowl.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl.

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 pound ground beef
2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Aromatics

Add garlic and ginger to the beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Incorporate Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.

Finish with Sauce

Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

To serve, place a generous amount of the beef and veggie mixture over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your flavorful and wholesome Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha before serving. You can also swap the beef for chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.

Storage and Reheating

This Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl is a fantastic meal prep option! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet to retain the dish's texture. Heat it over medium heat for around 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is warmed through and the vegetables retain some crispness.

If you need to store it for longer, you can freeze individual portions. Just ensure they are completely cool before placing them in freezer-safe containers. The dish can be frozen for up to three months, although the vegetables may lose some of their crunchiness upon reheating. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Beef and Veggie Rice Bowl, consider adding a sauce component. A drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a lovely kick if you enjoy a little heat. You could also serve it alongside pickled vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to add a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the bowl.

Another idea is to serve this dish in a lettuce cup for a fun twist! Using large romaine or butter lettuce leaves, scoop the beef and veggie mixture into the cups for a delightful hand-held meal or appetizer for gatherings. It adds a crunchy texture and is a unique way to enjoy the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time and reheat them when you're ready to serve.

→ What kind of rice works best?

Both white and brown rice work well, but brown rice offers more fiber and nutrition.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables are a convenient option and can be used directly in the recipe.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.