Description
A quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that combines seared ground beef with charred corn, lime, and cotija cheese for a smoky, tangy street food experience in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 2 cups (300g) corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 large limes (juice and zest)
- 1/2 cup (50g) cotija cheese (or feta)
- 2 tbsp (30g) mayonnaise
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (5g) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup (150g) cooked white rice (or alternative base)
- 1 tbsp oil (for cooking)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prep your base by cooking and fluffing the rice (or preparing cauliflower rice). Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix the ground beef with chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with oil. Add the seasoned beef, breaking it into crumbles. Sear for about 4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Push beef to the side or remove to a plate. Add corn kernels to the hot pan. Let sit undisturbed for 60-90 seconds to char, then stir and cook for another minute.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt to create the dressing.
- Add the charred corn back to the beef. Remove pan from heat. Sprinkle cotija cheese and cilantro over the top, tossing gently to combine.
- Assemble bowls by spooning the base into a bowl, topping with the beef and corn mixture, and drizzling with the lime-mayo dressing. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure proper searing. Let the corn char in the hot oil for smoky flavor. Use fresh lime juice and zest for best results. For low-carb, serve over cauliflower rice. For vegetarian, swap beef for tofu or plant-based meat. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; keep dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 28
Keywords: street corn, beef bowl, quick dinner, weeknight meals, Mexican food, ground beef, corn recipe, 15 minute meals, healthy dinner, family friendly