Ground Beef And Sweet Corn Rice Bowl

Name: Ground Beef And Sweet Corn Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen); 2 cups cooked rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I love making this Ground Beef and Sweet Corn Rice Bowl when I need a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of savory ground beef, sweet corn, and fluffy rice creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it's super easy to prepare, making it my go-to recipe for busy weekdays or casual gatherings with friends. I usually whip it up in about 30 minutes, and the leftovers are just as delicious, which makes it perfect for meal prepping!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:49:36.770Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. I often experiment with different ingredients, but the combination of ground beef and sweet corn is a classic that never fails. I’ve tried adding various spices, but a simple seasoning blend keeps it straightforward yet flavorful.

One tip I'd recommend is to toast the rice lightly in the pan before adding water. This enhances its nuttiness and flavor, elevating the overall dish. We often serve it with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions for that extra zing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with a perfect balance of sweet and savory
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights
Versatile recipe: customize with your favorite vegetables!

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of this Ground Beef and Sweet Corn Rice Bowl is the ground beef, which not only adds a depth of savory flavor but also ensures the dish is hearty and filling. Choosing a lean ground beef helps reduce the grease, allowing the other ingredients to shine without overwhelming the palate. Make sure to cook the beef until it's browned; this caramelization develops complex flavors that contribute to the overall deliciousness of the meal.

Sweet corn plays a pivotal role, providing a burst of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory components. Fresh corn is delicious when in season, but frozen corn is a great alternative, as it retains its sweetness and texture. If you're opting for fresh corn, cooking it just enough to keep its crunch adds a pleasant texture contrast that elevates the dish.

Cooking Technique Tips

Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the beef is crucial; this technique allows the aromatics to infuse the oil, creating a flavor base for the entire dish. I recommend cooking the onions until they are translucent and slightly golden, which typically takes about 4–5 minutes. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the onions and brings out their savory notes, setting a solid stage for the rest of the ingredients.

When combining the rice with the beef mixture, ensure that the rice is adequately heated through for at least 3–5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the skillet. If you find the mixture a bit dry, adding a splash of water or extra soy sauce can help achieve the desired consistency and flavor balance.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

This rice bowl is highly versatile, making it ideal for customization. You can easily incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even black beans for added nutrients and flavors. For a spicy twist, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the beef. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. To reheat, simply microwave for 2–3 minutes, adding a drizzle of water to maintain moisture. You can also freeze servings in individual portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thoroughly defrost in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure optimal texture and flavor when you enjoy it again.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
2 cups cooked rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Ground Beef and Sweet Corn Rice Bowl:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon and cooking until browned.

Add Corn and Seasonings

Stir in the sweet corn, soy sauce, cumin, and paprika. Let this mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked rice into the skillet, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Allow it to heat through for another 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Garnish

Remove the skillet from heat and serve the rice bowl in individual dishes. Top with chopped cilantro or green onions for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving or topping with avocado slices for creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common pitfall when making this dish is overcooking the beef, which can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a light brown color, as cooking it too long removes moisture and flavor. For a juicier result, consider using ground beef with a slightly higher fat content, around 80/20, which retains moisture during cooking.

Another mistake to watch out for is inadequate seasoning. Since the soy sauce is the primary source of saltiness, ensure you taste the mixture before serving. If it feels bland, adding a touch more soy sauce or even a squeeze of lime can elevate the flavor, dispersing a fresh brightness.

Dietary Modifications

If you're looking to make this bowl lighter, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef. Both options provide similar protein levels with reduced fat content. Additionally, replacing white rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa can create a low-carb variation without sacrificing taste—a great option for those on keto or gluten-free diets.

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or chickpeas. These legumes not only provide a hearty texture but also pack in protein. Keep the original seasonings to maintain the flavor profile while ensuring the dish remains satisfying and nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey will work well and provide a leaner option.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or use additional vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and corn mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to include bell peppers, peas, or even spinach for added nutrients and flavor.