Why Make This Recipe
Taco Rice Bowl is a fun and easy meal that everyone loves. It combines the flavors of your favorite tacos with the comfort of rice. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can easily please picky eaters. Plus, it’s a one-bowl meal, which means less cleanup!
How to Make Taco Rice Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup salsa
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- To taste: salt and pepper
- Optional: fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rice with water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
- Brown the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef or turkey, and season with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- Mix in beans and corn: Stir in the drained black beans and corn. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Assemble bowls: Layer the cooked rice in bowls, then top with the meat mixture, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and cheddar cheese.
- Finish with toppings: Drizzle with salsa and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges before serving.
How to Serve Taco Rice Bowl
Serve Taco Rice Bowl in individual bowls. You can let everyone add their toppings as they like, making it a fun and interactive meal. It’s great for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
How to Store Taco Rice Bowl
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. If you’ve made extra rice or toppings, store them separately to maintain freshness.
Tips to Make Taco Rice Bowl
- Use brown rice for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
- For added flavor, sauté onions and garlic with the meat before adding the seasoning.
- Customize your toppings with ingredients like avocado, jalapeños, or sour cream.
Variation
You can easily switch to shredded chicken instead of ground beef or turkey. For a vegetarian option, use quinoa or cauliflower rice along with extra beans and veggies.
FAQs
-
Can I make Taco Rice Bowl ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rice and meat mixture ahead of time. Just reheat when ready to serve. -
What can I serve with Taco Rice Bowl?
You can serve it with tortilla chips or a side of guacamole for an extra treat! -
Is Taco Rice Bowl spicy?
It depends on the taco seasoning you use. You can choose mild, medium, or spicy versions to fit your taste preference.

Taco Rice Bowl
Ingredients
For the Rice
- 1 cup uncooked white rice Can substitute with brown rice, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- 2 cups water or chicken broth For cooking the rice.
For the Meat Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey Can switch to shredded chicken or use a vegetarian option.
- 1 packet taco seasoning Choose mild, medium, or spicy based on preference.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed For added protein and texture.
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned) Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the meat.
- To taste salt and pepper Use as per preference.
For Toppings
- 1 cup diced tomatoes Fresh or canned can be used.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup salsa For drizzling on top.
- Optional fresh cilantro and lime wedges For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice with water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until tender.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef or turkey, and season with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the drained black beans and corn. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Assembly
- Layer the cooked rice in bowls, then top with the meat mixture, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and cheddar cheese.
- Drizzle with salsa and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges before serving.