Spicy Ground Beef Fajita Rice Bowls Recipe (Just In 25 min!)

Name: Spicy Ground Beef Fajita Rice Bowls
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 red bell pepper (sliced); 1 green bell pepper (sliced); 2 cups cooked white rice; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp fajita seasoning; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp sour cream; 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (chopped)

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Hi fajita fans! I’m Meriem, your one-pan dinner specialist, and today we’re cooking up something bold, hearty, and ridiculously easy: 🥩🍚 Spicy Ground Beef Fajita Rice Bowls.

If you love the sizzling flavor of fajitas but don’t have time to slice steak or clean a dozen dishes, this ground beef version is your answer. With fajita-seasoned beef, sautéed peppers, and a sprinkle of lime and sour cream—it hits every flavor note. I love making this after a busy day when I want something hot, homemade, and faster than takeout.

If you’re into my Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry or Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole, this one will slide into your weekly meal plan with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🕒 Ready in 25 minutes – Perfect for weeknight dinners or speedy meal prep.
🌶️ Big fajita flavor – Fajita seasoning, garlic, and lime make it pop.
🥩 Ground beef saves time – No slicing steak or long cooking times.
🍚 Complete meal – Protein, veggies, carbs, and healthy fats in every bite.
🥣 Customizable – Add beans, avocado, cheese, or corn to switch things up.

What you will need ?

🥩 1 lb ground beef (450g) – Lean beef works great (85–90%). You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
🌶️ 1 red bell pepper & 1 green bell pepper (each ~100g) – Bright color and sweet crunch. Use any color combo!
🍚 2 cups cooked white rice (360g) – Basmati or jasmine works well. Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
🧄 1 tsp garlic powder – Adds depth; sub with 2 fresh garlic cloves if preferred.
🥄 1 tbsp fajita seasoning – Store-bought or homemade. Includes paprika, cumin, chili powder, and oregano.
🧂 ½ tsp salt + 🌶️ ¼ tsp pepper – Basic seasoning to bring flavors together.
🥄 1 tbsp olive oil (15ml) – For sautéing. Use avocado oil for a neutral, high-heat option.
🥄 2 tbsp sour cream (30g) – Adds cooling creaminess. Sub with Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
🌿 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro – Optional garnish with vibrant flavor.
🍋 1 lime wedge – A fresh squeeze brightens the whole dish.

Equipment Needed

✅ Large nonstick skillet
✅ Knife and cutting board
✅ Mixing spoon or spatula
✅ Medium saucepan (if cooking rice fresh)
✅ Serving bowls

Step-By-Step Guiding

Sauté Ground Beef

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking apart with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Season the Beef

Stir in 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp fajita seasoning, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Bell Peppers

Add sliced red and green bell peppers. Stir and sauté for 3–4 minutes until they soften slightly but remain crisp.

🔥 Tip: Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne or a few jalapeño slices.

Assemble the Bowls

Divide 2 cups cooked white rice into four bowls. Top each with the beef and pepper mixture.

Finish with Toppings

Add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and garnish each with a lime wedge.

Serve Warm

Serve immediately. Squeeze lime juice over each bowl before eating for a bright, citrusy finish!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 400
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 460mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Topping Ideas & Variations

🥑 Add avocado slices or guacamole
🫘 Top with black beans or pinto beans
🌮 Swap rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa
🧀 Sprinkle shredded cheddar or queso fresco
🧅 Add quick-pickled red onions for tang

Storage & Reheating

Storage:
- Store assembled bowls (without sour cream and cilantro) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store sour cream and cilantro separately to maintain freshness.
- Tip: Keep rice and beef mixture in separate containers to prevent sogginess.
Freezing:
- Freeze the beef and pepper mixture (without rice or toppings) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Rice can be frozen separately for up to 1 month.
- Tip: Portion into single servings for easy meals.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Reheat beef mixture and rice for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway, until warmed through. Add fresh sour cream and cilantro after heating.
- Stovetop: Warm beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water for 5–7 minutes. Reheat rice separately.
- Tip: Refresh with a squeeze of lime or extra fajita seasoning after reheating.

What to Serve with Spicy Ground Beef Fajita Rice Bowls

Pair with these sides or beverages, inspired by your interest in complete meal ideas

Guacamole: Creamy and fresh for dipping or topping.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and simple for a side.
Refried Beans: Hearty and savory for authenticity.
Agua Fresca: Refreshing watermelon or pineapple drink.

Ingredient Substitutions Recap

Ground Beef → Ground Chicken: Leaner protein option.
White Rice → Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb, veggie-packed base.
Fajita Seasoning → Taco Seasoning: Similar spicy profile.
Sour Cream → Greek Yogurt: Tangy, lighter substitute.
Bell Peppers → Poblano Peppers: Smokier, mild flavor.

FAQs

Can I make low-carb ground beef fajita?

Yes! Swap rice for cauliflower rice or serve over sautéed greens.

Can I meal prep fajita rice bowls?

Yes—portion into containers, refrigerate, and add fresh toppings when ready to eat.

What’s the best substitute for sour cream?

Try Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or dairy-free sour cream alternatives.

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