Ground Beef And Sweet Corn Rice Bowl

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Corn Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen); 2 cups cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Plate Ideas

I love making this Ground Beef and Sweet Corn Rice Bowl because it's a delightful one-pan meal that's both hearty and colorful. The combination of savory ground beef with fresh sweet corn creates a harmony of flavors that makes dinner feel special. It's also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies and keep the family happy. With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation, this dish becomes a go-to for weeknight dinners, proving that delicious meals can be made without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-02-16T01:21:35.855Z

When I first tried making a rice bowl with ground beef and sweet corn, I was amazed by how all the flavors blended together. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory beef, creating an addictive taste profile. I learned that using fresh corn instead of canned makes a noticeable difference, and it brings a burst of sweetness that elevates the entire dish.

This recipe came about during a busy week when I needed something quick yet satisfying. I decided to sauté some spices with the beef, which allowed the flavors to develop beautifully in just a short time. The final touch was adding cilantro as a garnish, which brightened the bowl and made everything feel complete.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicious balance of savory beef and sweet corn
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Customization options with your favorite vegetables
One-pan cleanup for easy meal prep

Choosing the Right Ground Beef

The selection of ground beef plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of this dish. I recommend using ground beef with a fat content of around 80/20. This ensures a balanced taste, as the fat renders down, enhancing the overall richness of the bowl. Leaner cuts may result in a drier texture, which could impact the delightful mouthfeel of every bite. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, ground turkey or chicken works well and can be used in equal amounts.

For a more pronounced flavor, consider seasoning the beef with additional spices such as smoked paprika or cumin during cooking. These spices pair wonderfully with the sweetness of the corn and elevate the dish, giving it a more complex profile. Always taste as you go; a pinch of salt while cooking can significantly enhance the natural flavors.

Perfecting Texture and Flavor Balance

The inclusion of sweet corn is more than just a sweet note; it also adds texture and a pop of color to the dish. If you're using frozen corn, make sure to thaw it first to avoid excess moisture in the skillet. Conversely, fresh corn can be sliced directly from the cob, enhancing the dish's freshness and crunch. Aim to cook the corn just until heated through to retain that vibrant crispness that contrasts beautifully with the soft rice and tender beef.

The soy sauce element introduces umami, which binds all the flavors together, but it’s essential to monitor how much you add to avoid overpowering the dish. I suggest starting with one tablespoon and adjusting based on personal preference; you can always add more. Combining it with freshly cracked black pepper not only uplifts the dish but also harmonizes the flavors present without making it overly salty.

Ingredients

For the Bowl

1 pound ground beef
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
2 cups cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the sweet corn and soy sauce, mixing well until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Divide the cooked rice into bowls, top with the beef and corn mixture, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a dash of chili flakes or a splash of lime juice before serving. This dish also works well with different proteins such as chicken or turkey if you prefer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Ground Beef and Sweet Corn Rice Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can be safely kept for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet on medium heat. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the moisture while reheating, preventing the dish from becoming dry.

Freezing leftover portions is another great option. Divide the bowl into single-serving containers and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Bits of fresh cilantro can be added just before serving to refresh the flavors, making it taste like a fresh meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This rice bowl is incredibly versatile. To elevate the presentation, consider serving it in a vibrant bowl topped with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream. For an extra crunch, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top, which adds a satisfying contrast to the soft ingredients. If your family enjoys heat, diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce can be added for an exciting kick.

You can customize the bowl based on available veggies; bell peppers, peas, or even diced zucchini make fantastic additions or substitutions. Just ensure that if adding larger vegetables, they are pre-cooked or sautéed to soften them before mixing in with the beef and corn. With such adaptability, this rice bowl can easily be tailored to fit various dietary preferences or available ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add more fiber and nutrients to the dish, though it may require a longer cooking time.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this rice bowl is perfect for meal prep! Just store the components separately and combine when ready to eat.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or even peas to customize your rice bowl.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add a diced jalapeño while cooking the beef or sprinkle some hot sauce on top before serving.