Looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal? This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl is the perfect solution. Packed with protein, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce, it’s a one-pan dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s a recipe the whole family will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the diced red and green bell peppers and onion.
- Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasonings
- Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Combine with Rice
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, to warm the rice and blend the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Divide the beef and pepper rice mixture into bowls.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Perfect Rice: Use leftover rice for this recipe—it’s drier and absorbs the sauce better. If making fresh rice, let it cool slightly before adding.
- Customizable Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for extra nutrients and variety.
- Boost the Flavor: Sprinkle a few drops of sesame oil over the dish just before serving to enhance the nutty aroma.
- Control the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes to match your spice tolerance. For a bolder kick, add a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil.
Nutritional Highlights
This beef and pepper rice bowl is:
- High in Protein: The ground beef and rice provide a hearty dose of protein to keep you full and energized.
- Packed with Veggies: Bell peppers and onions add essential vitamins and antioxidants.
- Rich in Flavor: The soy-hoisin sauce combination creates a delicious balance of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-packed flavors.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable for different dietary preferences or ingredient substitutions.
Variations to Try
- Switch the Protein: Replace the ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu as a substitute for beef.
- Quinoa Bowl: Substitute rice with quinoa for a protein-packed alternative.
- Egg Addition: Add a fried or poached egg on top for extra richness and protein.
- Fried Rice Style: Scramble an egg into the skillet before adding the rice to create a fried rice-inspired dish.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Full Meal: This dish is filling on its own, but you can pair it with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced plate.
- For Entertaining: Serve with dumplings, spring rolls, or egg rolls to create a complete Asian-inspired meal.
- Family Style: Double the recipe and serve it in a large platter for a family dinner.
Meal Prep and Storage
Meal Prep
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Divide into individual containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating Instructions
- To reheat, microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Minimal Cleanup: A one-pan dish that keeps post-dinner clean-up simple.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit individual tastes or dietary needs.
- Delicious and Satisfying: A comforting, hearty meal that’s full of bold flavors and textures.

Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add diced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add cooked rice to the skillet and mix thoroughly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve in bowls, garnish with green onions, and enjoy!
Notes
Pro Tip: Use leftover rice for the best texture and absorption of flavors.