Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

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Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are the kind of weeknight magic that takes just the right ingredients and transforms them into something truly satisfying. With tender slices of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish delivers flavor, texture, and comfort all in one bowl. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just craving a hearty dinner, this simple recipe fits the bill.

What makes these bowls so irresistible is how customizable they are. You can spice them up, make them saucier, or swap the rice for grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice. It’s a flexible and budget-friendly dish that turns pantry staples into something a little special.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something fast but still feel like you cooked something homemade. The combination of seared beef and sweet peppers offers a delicious balance that works well for both adults and picky eaters. Plus, everything comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

The flavors are bold thanks to soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil, and the colorful presentation makes it look like you spent more time in the kitchen than you actually did. It’s great for leftovers and holds up well for next-day lunches too.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use?

Thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin are ideal because they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re working with tougher cuts like chuck or round, marinate the meat a little longer for added tenderness. For convenience, you can also use pre-sliced stir fry beef from the butcher section.

Ingredients for the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

To build the perfect beef and pepper bowl, you need a balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. Here’s what goes into the mix:

Beef (flank steak or sirloin) – This is your protein powerhouse and the main flavor driver. Thin slices help it sear quickly without drying out.

Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) – These bring sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color to the dish. Use a variety for best flavor and presentation.

Cooked rice – Acts as the hearty base of the bowl. Jasmine or long-grain white rice works well, or you can opt for brown rice.

Soy sauce – Delivers umami saltiness that ties everything together.

Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and sharp flavor that boosts the savory elements.

Sesame oil – Gives a rich nutty fragrance that elevates the whole dish.

Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce slightly and coats the beef for a crisp finish.

Green onions – A finishing touch for freshness and a mild onion kick.

How To Make the Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Slice your beef thinly across the grain. Toss it with a bit of cornstarch and soy sauce, then let it sit while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Cook the Peppers

Heat oil in a skillet and stir fry the sliced bell peppers until they’re tender-crisp. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

Add more oil if needed, then sear the beef in a single layer over high heat. Let it develop a good brown crust before stirring. Cook until just done.

Step 4: Combine and Sauce

Add the peppers back to the pan. Stir in garlic, a splash more soy sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Let it all cook for another minute so the flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve

Scoop the beef and pepper mixture over a bowl of warm rice. Top with chopped green onions and enjoy immediately.

How to Serve and Store Your Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls

These rice bowls are best served fresh, piled high over warm rice for ultimate comfort. This recipe feeds about four hungry people, but it’s easy to scale up if you’re meal prepping for the week.

To store leftovers, let the beef and pepper mixture cool before transferring to airtight containers. Store separately from the rice if possible, so nothing gets soggy. It keeps well in the fridge for up to four days and reheats easily in the microwave or on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls?

Steamed Dumplings

A few soft, juicy dumplings on the side make this meal feel like takeout at home.

Miso Soup

A light and savory soup to balance the rich stir-fry flavors.

Quick Pickled Cucumbers

The tangy crunch cuts through the savory beef for a refreshing bite.

Spicy Kimchi

If you like heat and fermented flavor, kimchi adds an addictive layer of complexity.

Stir-Fried Broccoli

Keep it green and simple. A garlicky broccoli stir-fry rounds out the meal nicely.

Chili Crisp Edamame

Protein-packed and a little spicy, these are a great nibble on the side.

Fried Egg

Top your bowl with a sunny-side-up egg for extra richness.

Want More Rice Bowl Ideas?

If this beef and pepper combo hit the spot, here are more rice-based favorites to add to your rotation:

• Try this flavorful Easy Chicken Fried Rice for a protein-packed twist.

• These Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri bring bold South American flair.

• Add a sweet-and-savory punch with Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Rice.

• Or enjoy a heartier spin with this Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet.

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Did you make any swaps or spice it differently? I love hearing your variations! Drop a comment and share how you made this recipe your own.

Explore beautifully curated dinner bowls and wholesome mains on Luna Meals on Pinterest to keep your meal inspiration fresh and exciting.

Conclusion

Beef and Pepper Rice Bowls are the kind of meal that hits all the right notes—quick, filling, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Once you try it, it might just make a regular appearance on your weekly menu. Let the vibrant colors, rich flavors, and ease of prep win you over, one bowl at a time.

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