Pin it
After too many busy weeknights ordering takeout, I started playing around with making my own rice bowls. This beef and pepper version became our favorite - it's faster than delivery and tastes way better. Plus, you can control exactly what goes in it.
First time I made this, my teenagers actually put down their phones to eat. Now they ask for it instead of ordering in.
What You'll Need
- Good ground beef: The real deal
- Fresh peppers: Any color works
- Jasmine rice: Gets all sticky
- Real garlic: Not the jarred stuff
- Fresh ginger: Makes everything pop
- Good soy sauce: I like low sodium
- Sesame oil: Just a touch
- Green onions: For the top
- Black pepper: Lots of it
Pin it
Want me to walk you through how to make this weeknight wonder?
Building Bowl Magic
- Rice Start:
- Get your rice going first - this is your foundation. I like jasmine, but any rice works. While it cooks, prep everything else. Having all your ingredients ready makes this go super fast.
- Beef Dreams:
- Brown that beef in a hot pan until it gets some crispy edges. Season it well - don't be shy with the pepper. Take it out and set it aside. Those brown bits in the pan? That's flavor gold for later.
- Pepper Time:
- Same pan, add a touch of sesame oil, then throw in those peppers and onions. Let them get a little char but keep some crunch. Add garlic and ginger right at the end - they burn quick.
- Bringing It Home:
- Put the beef back in, add your soy sauce mixture. Let it bubble and thicken just a bit. The sauce should coat everything nicely.
First try, my peppers turned to mush. Now I know quick cooking keeps the crunch.
Serving It Up
I like making this like they do at those quick-service spots - rice in the bowl first, then that saucy beef and pepper mix on top. Scatter some green onions over everything, maybe some sesame seeds if you're feeling fancy. Keep the soy sauce handy - everyone likes different amounts.
Playing Around
Over time, I've tried different spins. Sometimes I'll throw in mushrooms or snap peas. My kids love when I add a fried egg on top - that runny yolk makes everything better. For meal prep, I'll make a double batch of rice and beef, then switch up the veggies each day so it doesn't get boring.
Keeping It Fresh
Everything keeps pretty well for about three days. Store the rice separate from the beef mix - keeps the rice from getting soggy. When you reheat, add a splash of water to the rice to bring it back to life. A little extra soy sauce doesn't hurt either.
Pin it
You know what makes this recipe great? It's like having takeout powers in your own kitchen. Perfect for those nights when you want something good but don't have the energy for anything complicated. Sometimes the best recipes are the ones that save dinner time after time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef works best?
- Sirloin or flank steak sliced thin, or ground beef works too.
- → Can I make it spicier?
- Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce.
- → What rice should I use?
- White or brown rice both work well.
- → Can I meal prep this?
- Yes, keeps well refrigerated up to 3 days.
- → Substitute for oyster sauce?
- Can use additional hoisin sauce or soy sauce.