Burger Bowls Recipe
Introduction
Burger bowls offer all the savory flavors of a classic burger without the bun. This easy, nutritious dish layers seasoned ground beef with fresh veggies and brown rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare brown rice according to package instructions, which typically takes about 30 minutes.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper until browned, about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, halve the cherry tomatoes, shred the lettuce, and slice the pickles.
- Step 4: To assemble your bowls, start with a layer of cooked brown rice, then add the ground beef, followed by lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix ketchup and mustard together, then drizzle the sauce over the assembled ingredients.
- Step 6: Serve immediately, or enjoy your burger bowl straight from the bowl for a casual, delicious meal.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding sautéed onions and garlic to the ground beef as it cooks.
- Swap shredded cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella to change up the cheese taste.
- Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of brown rice for a lighter base.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for creaminess.
Storage
Store leftover burger bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave until warmed through. For best texture, add fresh lettuce and pickles after reheating to keep them crisp.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make burger bowls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before eating to keep fresh ingredients crisp and the cheese melty.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative; just adjust cooking time until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink.
PrintBurger Bowls Recipe
A delicious and hearty Burger Bowl combining seasoned ground beef, nutritious brown rice, fresh vegetables, and classic burger toppings for a satisfying meal without the bun.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb lean ground beef
Grains
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Condiments
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
Instructions
- Cook Brown Rice: Prepare brown rice according to package instructions, which usually takes about 30 minutes. Ensure rice is fluffy and fully cooked before setting aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add lean ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until browned thoroughly, about 8 minutes, making sure to crumble the beef for even cooking. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Prep Vegetables: While beef cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, shred the lettuce, and slice the pickles to get all fresh ingredients ready for assembly.
- Assemble Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the cooked brown rice as a base, followed by the browned ground beef, shredded lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pickles, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Make Sauce and Drizzle: In a small bowl, mix ketchup and mustard together until combined. Drizzle this sauce evenly over the assembled ingredients in each bowl to add classic burger flavor.
- Serve: Serve the burger bowls immediately for best taste and texture, or enjoy directly from the bowl as a convenient meal option.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Feel free to add onions, avocado, or other burger toppings according to taste.
- Use low-sodium ketchup and pickles to reduce salt content.
- This dish can be made ahead by preparing rice and beef separately and assembling just before serving.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with seasoned cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Keywords: burger bowl, ground beef recipe, healthy burger alternative, brown rice bowl, easy dinner recipe

