Taco Rice Bowl

Introduction

This Taco Rice Bowl is a flavorful and easy meal that combines seasoned ground meat, rice, and fresh toppings for a satisfying dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s versatile and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth (use chicken broth for more flavor)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup salsa (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh cilantro and lime wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium pot, combine the rice and water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered.
2. Step 2: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water (about ¼ cup), and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the meat is well coated and the sauce is slightly thickened.
4. Step 4: Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Step 5: To assemble, divide the cooked rice evenly among four serving bowls. Top each with the meat and bean mixture, shredded lettuce, cheddar cheese, and a spoonful of salsa.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or plant-based meat for a different protein option.
• Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
• Add diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
• For more heat, include jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Prepare all ingredients ahead for a quick assembly during busy days.

Storage

Store leftover taco rice bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the fresh toppings like lettuce and salsa separate to avoid sogginess. Reheat the rice and meat mixture gently in a microwave or on the stovetop until warm. Add fresh toppings just before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and meat mixture ahead and store them separately. Assemble the bowls just before serving to keep the toppings fresh and crisp.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground meat with cooked lentils, crumbled tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative. The rest of the ingredients remain the same and still provide great flavor and texture.

Taco Rice Bowl

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 116 reviews

This Taco Rice Bowl is a flavorful and comforting meal combining seasoned ground beef or turkey, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh and canned vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features a satisfying blend of protein, veggies, and melted cheddar cheese topped with salsa and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra zing.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice and Protein

• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth (for more flavor)
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables and Beans

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce

Toppings and Garnish

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup salsa (for topping)
• Optional fresh cilantro and lime wedges (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add 1 cup uncooked white rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Meat: While rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground beef or turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula.
3. Add Taco Seasoning: Once the meat is cooked, sprinkle in 1 packet of taco seasoning and stir well to evenly coat the meat. Add a splash of water as per seasoning packet instructions if needed. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let flavors combine.
4. Incorporate Vegetables and Beans: Stir in 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 cup corn, and 1 cup diced tomatoes into the meat mixture. Heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked rice into 4 serving bowls. Spoon the taco meat and vegetable mixture evenly over the rice.
6. Add Fresh Ingredients: Top each bowl with 1 cup shredded lettuce and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Add ½ cup salsa over the top.
7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for added brightness. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

• Use chicken broth instead of water to cook rice for enhanced flavor.
• Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef for a healthier version.
• Frozen corn does not require thawing before adding; canned works equally well.
• Adjust taco seasoning quantity and salt to taste depending on packet sodium content.
• For a vegetarian twist, omit meat and increase beans or add sautéed vegetables.
• Can be made in advance and reheated; add fresh lettuce and cheese just before serving.

Keywords: taco rice bowl, ground beef taco bowl, turkey taco bowl, easy Mexican dinner, one pot taco bowl, quick weeknight meal, taco seasoning rice bowl