This Low Carb Breakfast Burrito Bowl is a great way to start your day with a tasty, filling meal that won’t weigh you down. It’s packed with scrambled eggs, juicy sausage or bacon, fresh veggies like bell peppers and avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese—all the flavors you love from a classic breakfast burrito, but without the tortilla.
I love making this bowl when I want something quick but satisfying. It’s perfect for those busy mornings when you need energy that lasts but also want to keep carbs low. Plus, it’s super easy to customize—add extra salsa or a dollop of sour cream if you like a little extra zing. I find having fresh cilantro on top really brightens it up.
Serving this bowl feels special because it’s colorful and fun to eat with just a fork. It’s like having a breakfast fiesta in a bowl, and everyone always asks for seconds. I keep coming back to this simple recipe because it feels like comfort food that’s also good for me, and that’s not something I can say about many breakfast options!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef or turkey: I prefer ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey works well if you want a leaner option. You could also try crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika: These spices create the classic burrito bowl flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine. You can adjust the chili powder for milder or spicier taste.
Cauliflower rice: This is a great low-carb rice substitute that adds texture and volume. If you don’t have cauliflower rice, try shredded zucchini or omit it for a more protein-focused bowl.
Black beans: Although higher in carbs, a small amount adds fiber and flavor. For stricter low-carb diets, skip or reduce them.
Eggs: Cooking the egg sunny side up with a runny yolk is my favorite because it adds a creamy richness when mixed in. Scrambled or poached eggs are good alternatives too.
Avocado and guacamole: Both add creamy texture and healthy fats. If avocado isn’t available, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt gives a similar feel.
How Do I Cook the Egg Perfectly for This Burrito Bowl?
Cooking a sunny side up egg with a perfectly set white and runny yolk enhances this dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and add a little oil or butter.
- Crack the egg gently into the pan.
- Cook slowly without flipping. Cover the pan for 2-3 minutes to help the top white set without cooking the yolk too much.
- Carefully slide a spatula underneath to check that the white is firm but the yolk is still bright and runny.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately on top of your bowl.
This method keeps the yolk soft and ready to mix into the savory meat and veggies for the best taste and texture.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Non-stick skillet – perfect for cooking the ground meat evenly without sticking.
- Small frying pan – helps you cook the eggs sunny side up just right.
- Spatula – great for stirring meat and flipping eggs gently.
- Sharp knife – essential for chopping onions, avocado, and cilantro cleanly.
- Mixing bowl – useful for combining spices or mixing guacamole if you make it fresh.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with chorizo for a spicier, Mexican twist.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and texture.
- Use pepper jack or queso fresco cheese instead of cheddar for different flavors.
- Mix in jalapeños or hot sauce if you like a bit of heat and zing.
Low Carb Breakfast Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cauliflower rice (optional, low carb choice)
- 1/4 cup black beans (optional, use sparingly)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh tomato salsa or pico de gallo
- 2 tbsp guacamole
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime wedge
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the meat and veggies, 5 minutes preparing and frying the eggs, and just a few minutes assembling the bowl. It’s a quick and satisfying breakfast that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Meat and Veggies:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with your spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
2. Adding Cauliflower Rice and Beans:
If you’re using cauliflower rice and black beans, add them to the skillet now. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
3. Cooking the Eggs:
In a separate non-stick pan, cook your eggs sunny side up or however you like them. I recommend sunny side up for that delicious runny yolk that adds creaminess to the bowl.
4. Assembling Your Burrito Bowl:
Start by placing the meat and vegetable mixture at the bottom of your serving bowl. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top so it melts slightly from the heat. Add your fried egg on top of this. Around the edges, arrange the sliced avocado, dollops of guacamole, and the fresh tomato salsa or pico de gallo. Finish by garnishing with chopped cilantro and squeezing fresh lime juice over everything.
Enjoy your flavorful and filling low carb breakfast burrito bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef or turkey in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Make This Breakfast Bowl Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meat mixture and cauliflower rice up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, reheat gently and top with freshly cooked eggs and toppings before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh avocado and lime just before eating for best flavor.
Can I Skip the Black Beans to Lower Carbs Further?
Yes, omitting black beans will reduce the carb content. You can add extra cauliflower rice or veggies instead to keep the bowl satisfying and nutritious.
