One-Pan Spicy Ground Beef Fajita Bowls with Cilantro-Lime Rice
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, fire-roasted, undrained Unico Tomatoes, Chickpeas, Lentils or Beans
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 3, sliced (red, yellow, orange) Bell peppers (various colors)
- 1 medium, sliced Red onion
- 1, seeded and minced (optional) Jalapeño pepper
- 2 tbsp, or homemade blend (see instructions) Fajita seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups Rice (long-grain white or brown)
- 3 cups Chicken broth
- 1, juiced, plus wedges for serving Lime
- 1/4 cup, chopped Cilantro
- 1-2, diced Avocado
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Fajita Seasoning (Optional, but recommended): In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and black pepper. (Flavor Enhancement: Smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor to the fajita seasoning.)
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). (Technique Refinement: Higher temperature promotes better caramelization.)
- Prepare Cilantro-Lime Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly. In a saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro. (Flavor Enhancement: Cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water adds flavor.)
- In a large bowl, toss sliced bell peppers, red onion, and minced jalapeño (if using) with 1 tbsp olive oil and half of the fajita seasoning. Spread them evenly on a large baking sheet. (Flavor Enhancement: The jalapeño adds a touch of heat.)
- In the same bowl, mix ground beef with 1 tbsp olive oil and the remaining fajita seasoning. Crumble and spread the beef evenly on the same baking sheet, keeping it separate from the vegetables. (Technique Refinement: Ensure the beef is in a single layer for even browning.)
- Add can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes evenly over top of beef and veggies. (Flavor Enhancement: Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.)
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until beef is cooked through and vegetables are tender and slightly charred. (Technique Refinement: Check for doneness; the beef should be browned, and the vegetables should be tender but still have some bite.)
- Assemble bowls with cilantro-lime rice, roasted ground beef and vegetables. Top with diced avocado, a squeeze of lime, and any desired toppings such as sour cream or salsa. (Ingredient Note: Adjust the ratio of rice to beef and vegetables to your liking.)
- Serve immediately. (Flavor Enhancement: Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge.)
Cuisine: Mexican
Suitability:
Prep Time: mins
Cook Time: mins
Serving Size:
Meal Type: dinner