Looking for a quick weeknight dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and family-approved? These Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are the answer. With juicy seasoned ground beef, sweet and savory bell peppers, and tender onions layered over a bed of fluffy rice, this dish is satisfying without being heavy. It’s one of those meals that balances comfort and ease, ideal for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd on busy evenings.


What makes this recipe shine is the bold blend of spices and the irresistible caramelization on the veggies. Every bite delivers a punch of umami and crunch from the peppers, making it a colorful, nutritious option too. Whether you’re craving something cozy or need a go-to for leftovers, this bowl has got your back.
What Kind of Peppers Should I Use?
You can mix and match peppers to your taste! Green bell peppers bring a slight bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the sweeter red or yellow peppers. Want extra heat? Toss in a chopped jalapeño or poblano. The key is to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Ingredients for the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
Ground Beef – The heart of the dish, it adds savory richness and protein to keep you full.
Green Bell Peppers – Adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the other peppers.
Red Bell Peppers – Balances the flavor profile with a sweeter note and a pop of color.
Yellow Onion – A classic aromatic that caramelizes beautifully and enhances the flavor of the beef.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with deep, savory undertones.
Soy Sauce – Provides salty umami depth that ties all ingredients together.
Black Pepper & Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Brings warmth and spice.
Cooked White Rice – The foundation of the bowl; perfectly neutral to absorb all the saucy flavors.
Olive Oil – For sautéing and bringing everything together.
How To Make the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Peppers and Flavor
Stir in the chopped green and red bell peppers. Sauté with the beef for about 5-6 minutes until they soften but still hold a slight crunch. Add soy sauce and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and cook for 2 more minutes.
Step 4: Build the Bowls
Spoon warm, fluffy rice into serving bowls. Top with generous scoops of the beef and pepper mixture. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Serving and Storing These Bowls
Serve these bowls hot and fresh for maximum flavor. You can also make them ahead for meal prep—just store the beef and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water to keep things moist.
For freezing, let the beef and peppers cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What to Serve With Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls?
Steamed Broccoli
Its mild flavor and crunch make it a fresh companion to this hearty bowl.
Fried or Steamed Egg
Add protein and richness with a sunny-side-up egg on top.
Asian Cucumber Salad
Crisp, tangy, and refreshing—a nice contrast to the warm rice and beef.
Miso Soup
A light and savory addition that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Egg Rolls
Crispy and flavorful, they bring a restaurant-style vibe to your dinner.
Want More Bowl Ideas with Big Flavor?
If you love these Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls, here are more recipes you should check out on Savor Queen:
- Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup for a creamy, comforting meal.
- Cheeseburger Soup packed with bold flavors and melty cheese.
- Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta when you crave beef with a cheesy twist.
- Easy Beef Stroganoff for a classic, hearty dinner.
- French Onion Beef Rice Casserole with rich, deep flavors in every bite.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this hearty dinner idea to your go-to Pinterest board for busy nights or meal prep days.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe added mushrooms, swapped the rice for quinoa, or threw in a spicy sauce? Share your variations and tips in the comments—I love hearing from you!
Need daily inspiration? Come browse all my fresh and comforting dishes at SavorQueen.com on Pinterest.
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Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, these Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are calling your name. With tender ground beef, sautéed sweet bell peppers, and a punch of garlic and spice, this dish delivers big flavor with little effort. Perfect for easy dinner ideas, meal prep lunches, or healthy snack-style bowls, it’s everything you want in a comforting, go-to weeknight meal. Whether you’re hunting for quick breakfast-for-dinner options, bold food ideas, or a flexible, easy recipe to keep on hand, this bowl checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups cooked white rice
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Mix in chopped bell peppers and cook for 5-6 minutes until slightly softened.
6. Add soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and black pepper; stir well.
7. Simmer everything together for 2 minutes.
8. Serve the beef and pepper mix over warm rice and enjoy.
Notes
For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth after browning the meat.
Want it saucier? Add 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce or hoisin to boost umami depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: easy dinner, rice bowls, beef and pepper, healthy meal, weeknight dinner
