This hearty Ground Beef Power Bowl is packed with flavor! With tender ground beef, creamy avocado, and rich cottage cheese, it’s a filling meal everyone will love.
I enjoy mixing it all up in the bowl. It’s like a fun little food party! Plus, it’s so easy to make—perfect for a busy day or just a quick dinner solution!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star of this dish, providing protein and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian take, crumbled tofu or black beans work well!
Cauliflower Rice: This is a great low-carb option! If you prefer a bit of texture, feel free to use brown or white rice instead. Quinoa is another excellent alternative to keep it hearty.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats. If you don’t have one or need to substitute due to allergies, try using a dollop of guacamole or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt for that rich texture.
Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese gives a nice creaminess and protein boost. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt makes a smooth substitute, or you could use ricotta cheese for a different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Ground Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking ground beef properly gives you juicy, flavorful results. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Start with a pre-heated skillet on medium heat. This helps the beef brown nicely.
- Break the beef apart as it cooks. Use a spatula to crumble it, ensuring even cooking.
- Watch for the color! You want it to turn brown but avoid overcooking, which can dry it out. This usually takes around 6–8 minutes.
- Season your beef with spices after it’s browned, letting the flavors meld for a couple of minutes.
These steps will help you achieve a flavorful and tender base for your Power Bowl!
Ground Beef Power Bowl with Avocado & Cottage Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cauliflower rice (or cooked quinoa for a grain option)
- 1/2 cup roasted sweet potatoes, diced
- 1/2 small avocado, halved and pitted
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup pickled or sautéed red onions
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
- Hot sauce or your favorite dressing, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious power bowl takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10–15 minutes prepping and cooking the ground beef, while the roasted sweet potatoes can cook simultaneously. The assembly is quick and easy, making this a perfect meal for any weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks until it’s browned and no longer pink. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Season the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir and let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the beef with flavor. Then, remove it from the heat.
3. Prepare the Base:
In a large bowl, start with a base of cauliflower rice or cooked quinoa. Spread it out evenly to create a nice bed for the other ingredients.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
Next, add the cooked ground beef to one side of the bowl and place the roasted sweet potato cubes right next to it. This creates a colorful display!
5. Add Creamy Elements:
Now, spoon cottage cheese over the cauliflower rice or beside the other ingredients. The cottage cheese adds a rich creaminess that complements the flavors beautifully.
6. Slice the Avocado:
Take your avocado and slice it in half, removing the pit. Add the avocado halves or slices to the bowl. They provide a lovely creamy texture and healthy fats.
7. Finish with Toppings:
Top your bowl with pickled or sautéed red onions for a zesty kick. If you like, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the top for a hint of freshness.
8. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, drizzle your favorite hot sauce or dressing over the bowl for added flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy mixing the ingredients as you eat for a delightful blend of tastes!
This Ground Beef Power Bowl is not only a filling meal but also a great balance of protein, healthy fats, and veggies. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative to beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as turkey and chicken may cook a bit faster. Season them similarly for the best flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the avocado has been added, it’s best to eat that fresh, so consider adding it only when serving.
Can I Make This Bowl Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or black beans for a plant-based protein option. Just make sure to season them well to maximize flavor!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Get creative! You can add toppings like diced tomatoes, corn, shredded cheese, or even a sprinkle of seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch. The bowl is versatile—customize it to your taste!
