Classic Bodybuilder’s Ground Beef and Quinoa Bowl

Instructions

1. Get Your Gear Ready: Gather your tools—a medium pot (if cooking quinoa fresh), a large skillet, a spatula, and a cutting board. This bodybuilder’s bowl is all about quick, hearty fuel, so let’s set the stage for some post-workout goodness with everything in reach!
2. Cook the Quinoa (If Needed): If your quinoa isn’t pre-cooked, rinse ½ cup dry quinoa under cold water, then add it to a pot with 1 cup water or broth. Bring it to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes until fluffy. Fluff with a fork and set aside—1 cup cooked is what you need!
3. Heat the Skillet: Grab your large skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat up until it shimmers—this is where the magic starts, giving your beef that perfect sizzle and flavor base!
4. Brown the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the hot skillet, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. Let it sizzle for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. The aroma alone will have you pumped for this muscle-building meal!
5. Drain and Season: Once the beef is browned, tilt the skillet and spoon off any excess fat—this keeps it lean and mean for your gains. Sprinkle in the minced garlic, paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it all together for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the spices wake up.
6. Add the Bell Pepper: Toss in the diced red bell pepper and give it a good mix with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring now and then, until the peppers soften slightly but still have a bit of crunch—those vibrant bites are packed with vitamins to support your recovery!
7. Wilt the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet, stirring it into the beef and peppers. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, just until it wilts and turns bright green—you’re keeping it quick to hold onto all that nutrient power for your post-workout boost!
8. Taste and Tweak: Give your beef and veggie mix a quick taste—does it need a little more salt, pepper, or a dash of paprika? This is your moment to make it perfect for you. Stir one last time to blend all those flavors into a bodybuilder’s delight.
9. Build the Bowl Base: Grab your bowls and spoon a hearty portion of cooked quinoa into each one—about ⅓ to ½ cup per serving. This nutty, fluffy base is your carb foundation, ready to soak up all the savory goodness you’re about to pile on top!
10. Serve and Recharge: Scoop the ground beef, pepper, and spinach mixture over the quinoa, dividing it evenly between the bowls. Take a second to admire your creation—it’s a bulking masterpiece! Dig in with a spoon or fork, savoring every bite as it fuels your muscles and powers your recovery.