High-Protein Beef & Quinoa Power Bowls (Meal Prep Friendly)

This power bowl is designed for maximum satiety and nutrient density, combining the heme iron and zinc found in lean ground beef with the complete plant-based protein of quinoa. The inclusion of healthy monounsaturated fats from avocado and fiber from black beans creates a balanced macronutrient profile that supports sustained energy release. The “deconstructed” assembly method ensures that delicate ingredients like spinach remain crisp, while the grains and proteins can be reheated easily.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 Min
• Cook Time: 15 Min
• Total Time: 25 Min
• Yield: 4 Servings
• Calories: 410 kcal per serving

Ingredients:

The Protein & Grain Base

• 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (90% or 93% lean is best for bowls)
• 1 cup Dry Quinoa (Rinsed thoroughly)
• 2 cups Water or Low-Sodium Beef Broth
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil

The Seasoning & Veggies

• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 cup Black Beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
• 1 large Avocado, sliced
• 2 cups Fresh Spinach (Base layer)

Preparation Steps:

1. Cooking Fluffy Quinoa

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
2. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute, preventing a mushy texture.

2. Searing the Beef

3. While the quinoa simmers, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
5. Cook for 8–10 minutes until browned. Ensure the ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to meet food safety requirements.

3. Incorporating Fiber

6. Stir the black beans into the skillet with the beef for the last 2 minutes of cooking to heat them through. This allows the beans to absorb the savory juices and spices from the meat.

4. Bowl Assembly

7. Place a handful of fresh spinach at the bottom of each bowl. Top with a generous scoop of quinoa followed by the beef and bean mixture.
8. Arrange the cherry tomatoes and fresh avocado slices on top.

Expert Tips:

• Flavor Balance: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the avocado and beef just before serving. The acidity brightens the earthy notes of the quinoa and cumin, mimicking a vinaigrette without the extra oil.
• Meal Prep Hack: If prepping for the week, store the avocado and tomatoes in a separate container from the heated components to maintain freshness. Add them only when ready to eat.