It reminds me of weeknights growing upMom flipping rice in a hot pan, pepper sizzling loud as popcorn. This Beef Pepper Rice Bowl tastes like that but quicker, easier, and way more popular (thank you, TikTok). It’s a cozy dinner in 20 minutesno stress, I promise.
This dish is all about juicy beef, sweet bell peppers, and steamy jasmine ricefried up in one skillet till golden and tender. It feels like something you’d grab at your favorite takeout spot… except you already have the ingredients. Read on for the full recipe and tips to master it!
I spent weeks testing this onelate-night cravings, leftover rice, and a hunt for maximum comfort. I grew up documenting recipes like thissimple, bold, and satisfying. But seriously, wait for the garlic butter trick. It changes the whole game and makes it completely crave-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple: This Beef Pepper Rice Bowl comes together in about 20 minutes, with just one skillet and a handful of ingredients you probably already have.
- Bold flavors: Juicy ground beef, tender bell peppers, garlic, soy, and Worcestershire sauce stir up a big umami punch with minimal fuss.
- Perfectly cozy: The warm, fragrant rice makes each bite feel like homeideal for busy weeknights or a chilly-day dinner.
- Flexible: Adjust the veggies, spice levels, or even swap proteins based on what you’ve got.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe sticks to pantry staples and fresh produce. Here’s what gives it that can’t-stop-eating-it flavor:
- Ground beef: Opt for 85/15 ground chuck if you want delicious flavor and moisture.
- Bell peppers: Use any color combored for sweetness, green for mild bitterness, yellow for mild crunch.
- Jasmine rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice soaks up all the broth and juices perfectly.
- Soy sauce & Worcestershire sauce: These add depth and umami roundness without needing seasoning packets.
- Beef broth: Simmering rice in broth instead of water infuses it with layered flavor.

Ingredient Tip:
Out of fresh garlic? Jarred pre-minced garlic works in a pinch. Just avoid using garlic powderit won’t bring the same punch here.
How to Make Beef Pepper Rice Bowl
Simple instructions, one pan, and minimal cleanup. Here’s how to get it right every time:
- Cook the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic for about 3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Add the beef: Add 1 pound ground beef. Crumble and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
- Toss in the veggies: Stir in 2 sliced bell peppers. Cook another 4–5 minutes, just until slightly softened and bright in color.
- Cook the rice: Stir in 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice, 2 cups beef broth, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Turn off heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in 1 tablespoon butter mixed with a small minced garlic clove (optional but recommended). Top with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Quick Step Summary
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sauté onion and garlic. |
| 2 | Brown the ground beef. |
| 3 | Add bell peppers and soften. |
| 4 | Stir in rice, broth, and sauces. Simmer. |
| 5 | Fluff rice, garnish, and serve. |
Troubleshooting and Tweaks
- Dry rice? Add 1/4 cup more broth and cook covered for a few extra minutes.
- Too salty? Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth next time, or balance with a dash of rice vinegar.
- No Worcestershire? Sub with extra soy sauce, tamari, or a few drops of balsamic for richness.
- Want extra heat? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or 1 small chopped jalapeño in Step 2.
Swaps and Substitutions
| Ingredient | Easy Substitution |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | Ground turkey or chicken |
| Jasmine rice | Any long-grain rice like basmati (avoid short-grain sushi rice) |
| Beef broth | Chicken broth or vegetable broth |
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving ideas: Try a side of quick cucumber salad or steamed broccoli. A soft-boiled egg on top is also an excellent add-on.
- Leftovers: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or skillet with 1 tablespoon of broth or water to soften rice.
- Freezer-friendly: Divide into individual portions, cool completely, and freeze in airtight containers. Will keep for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Storage Tips
| Storage Method | How Long It Lasts |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
Expert Insight: The Science Behind a Perfect Beef Pepper Rice Bowl
The secret to a great beef pepper rice bowl is in the contrastjuicy, umami-loaded beef balanced by sweet bell peppers and nutty rice. Medium-high heat caramelizes everything just enough, while covering traps steam to help the rice cook evenly. Adding garlic butter at the end infuses the rice with rich aroma and keeps it silky, never sticky. It’s science and comfort in one bite.
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Perfecting the Beef Pepper Rice Bowl at Home
This Beef Pepper Rice Bowl underwent tons of kitchen experimentssome too spicy, some too bland, and a few just weird. I remember one version with overcooked rice that turned into mush. But each round helped refine the balance to what it is now: savory, peppery, a touch of indulgent garlic butter, and weeknight simple. Real testing, real improvement.
FAQs ( Healthy Beef and Pepper Rice Bowl )
What is a Beef Pepper Rice Bowl?
A Beef Pepper Rice Bowl is a delicious meal featuring seasoned ground beef cooked with colorful bell peppers, served over a bed of rice. This easy healthy recipe with ground beef combines vibrant vegetables and high protein to make a satisfying and balanced dish perfect for fast and easy low carb dinners or meal prep with peppers.
How can I make this recipe low carb?
To make your Beef Pepper Rice Bowl low carb, substitute traditional rice with cauliflower rice or another low carb alternative. This simple swap keeps the meal high in protein while fitting perfectly into fast and easy low carb dinners or 21 Day Fix dinner ideas for a nutritious, satisfying dish.
Is this Beef Pepper Rice Bowl good for meal prep?
Yes! This Beef Pepper Rice Bowl is an excellent option for meal prep with peppers. It stores well in the fridge, reheats easily, and provides a healthy balance of protein and veggies. Preparing it in advance makes busy weeknights easier and ensures you always have a high protein meal ready to go.
Can I use other peppers or vegetables in the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Beef Pepper Rice Bowl by using different bell pepper colors or adding veggies like onions, zucchini, or mushrooms. Mixing in more vegetables keeps the meal fresh and nutritious, making it a versatile pepper bowl that suits your taste and dietary needs.
What side dishes go well with a Beef Pepper Rice Bowl?
Light sides like a fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus pair wonderfully with a Beef Pepper Rice Bowl. These easy healthy recipes with ground beef are complemented by crisp, low-calorie sides that add texture and keep the meal balanced and satisfying.

Conclusion
This Beef Pepper Rice Bowl is a 20-minute wonder that nails big flavor with pantry basics. Juicy beef, vibrant peppers, and fluffy rice become comforting magic in a skilletperfect for any night when hunger meets zero energy.
Go lighter with ground turkey or kick it up with chili flakes. Leftovers? Reheat like a dream with a little extra broth. And don’t skip the green onions at the endthey wake the whole dish up.
Try it, make it your own, and let this quick cozy classic become your weeknight hero. If it reminds you of home cooking, even better. Share with a friend who needs a warm new favorite.

Beef Pepper Rice Bowl: Delicious and Easy Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add uncooked jasmine rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ground black pepper, paprika, and salt to taste.
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious beef pepper rice bowl!
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red chili flakes with the spices.
- This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and is perfect for meal prep.










