Chipotle Beef Bowl with Creamy Chipotle Crema
A Spicy, Flavor-Packed Rice Bowl Loaded with Fresh Toppings and Bold Tex-Mex Flair
Description:
This Chipotle Beef Bowl brings together everything you love in a quick and satisfying meal: smoky seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, sautéed peppers, and a rainbow of fresh toppings — all tied together with a tangy, creamy chipotle crema. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving a crowd, this build-your-own bowl is versatile, customizable, and packed with bold flavor in every bite.
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–30 minutes (depending on rice type)
- Total Time: 30–40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chipotle Beef
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice
- 1 cup jasmine or brown rice
- 2 cups water
- Pinch of salt
For the Sautéed Peppers
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chipotle Crema
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp chipotle sauce (from a can of chipotles in adobo or bottle)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
Optional Toppings
- Avocado, sliced or diced
- Corn (fresh, canned, or grilled)
- Fresh tomato, diced
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
- Rinse 1 cup rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, combine the rice, 2 cups water, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer:
- 15 minutes for jasmine/white rice
- 40 minutes for brown rice
- Once done, remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Time: 15–40 minutes (can be cooked ahead)
2. Prepare the Chipotle Beef
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned (about 6–8 minutes).
- Stir in the chipotle chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.
Time: 10–12 minutes
Tip: Drain excess fat after browning for a leaner bowl.
3. Sauté the Peppers
- In a separate skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced red bell pepper and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time: 5–7 minutes
4. Make the Chipotle Crema
- In a small bowl, mix together:
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp chipotle sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust lime or spice level as needed.
Time: 2 minutes
5. Assemble the Chipotle Beef Bowls
In each bowl, layer in the following:
- A generous scoop of fluffy rice
- A hearty portion of chipotle ground beef
- Sautéed bell peppers
- Fresh toppings like avocado, corn, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese
- A drizzle of chipotle crema
- Finish with chopped cilantro and a wedge of lime if desired
Optional Add-Ons
- Black beans or pinto beans for extra protein
- Pickled red onions for a tangy contrast
- Lettuce or spinach for extra greens
- Swap beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
Storage & Meal Prep
- Store all components separately in airtight containers.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat beef and rice in the microwave or skillet. Add fresh toppings just before serving.
Why You’ll Love It
- Easy to customize for any diet or flavor preference
- Great for meal prep or weeknight dinners
- Packed with protein, fiber, and colorful veggies
- The chipotle crema ties it all together with creamy, smoky zing