The Beef & Quinoa Bowl is a delicious and hearty meal that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef and the nutritious benefits of quinoa. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and veggies, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome dinner. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this bowl is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making the Beef & Quinoa Bowl is a great choice for many reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, this recipe is flexible and allows for customization—you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Third, quinoa is a super grain that provides plenty of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Overall, this dish is a well-rounded meal option that’s both healthy and satisfying.
How to Make Beef & Quinoa Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Directions
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa and beef broth (or water) and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Stir in the diced bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve the beef mixture over the quinoa, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
How to Serve Beef & Quinoa Bowl
Serve the Beef & Quinoa Bowl warm. You can mix everything together or keep it layered for a nice presentation. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some avocado slices for added creaminess. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can even be enjoyed as a filling snack.
How to Store Beef & Quinoa Bowl
To store leftovers, let the Beef & Quinoa Bowl cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This dish can be kept for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm.
Tips to Make Beef & Quinoa Bowl
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of chili powder or some hot sauce.
- If you want a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of water for cooking the quinoa.
Variation
You can easily turn this Beef & Quinoa Bowl into a vegetarian dish by substituting ground beef with black beans or kidney beans. You can also add more vegetables and even top it with some shredded cheese for extra flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?
Yes, you can substitute quinoa with rice, farro, or any other grain you prefer. Adjust the cooking time according to the grains used.
2. Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! The Beef & Quinoa Bowl can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option.
3. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as both quinoa and the ingredients used do not contain gluten. Always check the labels if you are concerned about cross-contamination.
Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in the Beef & Quinoa Bowl, and impress your family and friends with this simple and tasty meal!
