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Taco Rice Bowl with seasoned ground beef rice black beans corn lettuce tomatoes cheese and salsa in white bowl

Taco Rice Bowl

Quick and customizable Taco Rice Bowl with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, black beans, corn, and fresh toppings. Perfect weeknight dinner ready in 35 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice long-grain preferred
  • 2 cups chicken broth or water chicken broth recommended for richer flavor
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey 85/15 beef or ground turkey for lighter option
  • 1 packet taco seasoning about 1 oz
  • 1/3 cup water for taco seasoning mixture
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 can black beans 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn frozen or canned
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes fresh or canned
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce romaine recommended
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar preferred
  • 1/2 cup salsa for topping
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh cilantro and lime wedges optional garnish

Equipment

  • Medium pot with lid
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • 4 serving bowls

Method
 

  1. Rinse rice under cold water in fine-mesh strainer until water runs clear, about 30 seconds. Add to medium pot with 2 cups chicken broth and pinch of salt. Bring to full boil over high heat, then reduce to lowest setting, cover with tight-fitting lid, and simmer 15 to 18 minutes without lifting lid until fluffy and liquid absorbed.
  2. Heat large skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once oil shimmers (about 1 minute), add ground beef or turkey. Break into small crumbles with wooden spoon and cook 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply browned with no pink remaining and reaches 165°F internal temperature. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Add taco seasoning packet and 1/3 cup water to browned meat. Stir thoroughly and simmer 2 to 3 minutes until sauce thickens and coats meat with glossy sheen.
  4. Transfer meat to bowl. In same skillet, add black beans and corn. Heat through 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove rice from heat when done. Let sit covered 5 minutes, then fluff gently with fork to separate grains and release moisture.
  6. Divide rice among 4 serving bowls creating generous base. Add portions of seasoned meat, black beans, and corn to each bowl.
  7. Top each bowl with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and salsa.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Squeeze lime juice over bowls right before eating. Serve immediately while base is warm and toppings are cool.

Notes

Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat rice and meat together, add fresh toppings after heating. Customize with avocado, jalapeños, sour cream, or hot sauce. For vegetarian version, skip meat and double beans or use plant-based alternative. Ground meat should reach 165°F internal temperature for food safety.