Taco Rice Bowl Recipe
Introduction
The Taco Rice Bowl is a simple, flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef with fluffy rice and your favorite toppings. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- Your choice of toppings (such as shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, and avocado)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Add taco seasoning to the beef along with a splash of water, stirring well. Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Step 4: To assemble the bowl, start with a base of rice, then top with the seasoned beef and your preferred toppings.
Tips & Variations
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier or low-carb option.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a different protein choice.
Storage
Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef and rice gently in the microwave or on the stove before assembling the bowl again. Add fresh toppings after reheating for the best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free and all toppings you choose do not contain gluten.
What toppings work best for a taco rice bowl?
Classic toppings include shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, and avocado, but feel free to customize to your taste.
PrintTaco Rice Bowl Recipe
A flavorful and easy-to-make Taco Rice Bowl featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish combines classic taco flavors with a comforting rice base for a satisfying one-bowl meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- Pinch of salt
Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup water (for taco seasoning)
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, lime wedges
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Prepare the Ground Beef: While the rice cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water, mix well, and simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Assemble the Taco Rice Bowl: Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous portion of seasoned ground beef. Add desired toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, black olives, sour cream, and cilantro. Add optional jalapeños, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use brown rice as a healthier alternative, but increase cooking time to 40-45 minutes.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with seasoned black beans or lentils.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to control sodium and spice levels.
- Leftover bowls can be refrigerated and reheated within 3 days.
Keywords: taco rice bowl, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, Mexican rice bowl, weeknight meal
