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Taco Rice Bowl Recipe

5 from 166 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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