Hearty ground beef bowls

This burger bowl is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic burger without the bun. It works perfectly for weeknight dinners when you want something filling and balanced but not complicated to pull together.

I first made this on a busy weeknight when I didn't want to fire up the grill or make sandwiches. It quickly became a go-to comfort meal my family enjoyed without the mess.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: for savory richness pick a fresh lean cut for best flavor and texture
• Cooked brown rice: as a fiber-rich base use quality long grain for fluffiness
• Cherry tomatoes: for fresh acidity choose firm vibrant tomatoes to balance richness
• Shredded lettuce: for crunch iceberg or romaine work well depending on your preference
• Sliced pickles: for tanginess pick crisp dill pickles to brighten each bite
• Shredded cheddar cheese: for melty sharpness freshly shredded melts better than pre-shredded
• Ketchup and mustard: for that classic burger sauce taste use your favorites or craft your own for more flavor control

Instructions

Prepare Brown Rice:

Cook according to package directions usually about 30 minutes until tender and fluffy this forms a warm base for the bowl. Fluff with a fork once done to keep the texture light.

Cook The Beef:

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the lean ground beef season simply with salt and pepper. Brown evenly cooking for about 8 minutes, breaking meat apart to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter but still flavorful.

Prep Fresh Ingredients:

While the beef cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, shred the lettuce finely, and slice the pickles into rounds or halves depending on your preference. Prepare the cheese by shredding if not pre-shredded.

Assemble The Bowl:

Into your serving bowls, start with a layer of the cooked brown rice. Add the browned beef evenly over the rice, then top with shredded lettuce, cherry tomatoes, pickles, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

Finish With Sauce:

In a small bowl, stir together ketchup and mustard. Drizzle the sauce over the assembled bowls to bring that classic burger flavor profile into a fresh format. Serve immediately or dig in right from the bowl.

One family memory I love is how this bowl became a way to enjoy the familiar taste of cheeseburgers even when our kid was avoiding buns after an allergy scare.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before storing in airtight containers to keep freshness. The bowl components hold well separately or together in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a microwave stirring to keep rice fluffy and cheese melty.

Ingredient Swaps

Swap lean ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles to lighten or adapt to dietary needs. Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of brown rice for a low-carb or different grain option. Try pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder or creamier bite.

Serving Ideas

Add avocado slices for extra creaminess or a fried egg on top for richness. Serve with a side of baked sweet potato fries or simple mixed greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette to round out the meal. A splash of hot sauce adds a nice kick if you like some heat.

This burger bowl delivers fresh familiar flavors with ease and is perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Lean ground beef is ideal as it browns well and keeps the dish light without excess fat.

→ Can I substitute brown rice with other grains?

Yes, quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used for different textures and nutritional profiles.

→ How can I keep the lettuce fresh and crisp?

Chop the lettuce just before assembling and keep it chilled until ready to use to maintain crunchiness.

→ Is there an alternative to cheddar cheese in this bowl?

Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used for a milder flavor and creamy texture.

→ Can the ketchup and mustard sauce be replaced?

Absolutely, a simple drizzle of barbecue sauce or a creamy dressing can complement the flavors well.