Taco Rice Bowl - Fork And Fry

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Created on September 7th, 2025 at 07:53 am

Bold flavors, fresh toppings, totally customizable 🌮

Need a quick dinner that feels like a taco party in a bowl? This Taco Rice Bowl brings together juicy seasoned ground beef (or turkey), fluffy rice, and a rainbow of fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, black beans, and salsa — all in just 35 minutes! It’s a perfect Mexican-American fusion dish for busy weeknights, back-to-school meal prep, or even a casual dinner with friends. Whether you’re craving something spicy, hearty, or healthy-ish, this bowl is endlessly customizable and packed with bold, zesty flavor. 🌽🍅

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people

📝 Ingredients List

1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups water or chicken broth (use 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

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free:

Medium pot
Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Cutting board (for fresh toppings)
4 serving bowls

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

Cook the rice:
In a medium pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Add rice, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–18 minutes or until tender. Fluff with a fork.
Sauté the meat:
While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef or turkey and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula, until fully browned.
Add seasoning:
Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until well combined and slightly thickened.
Warm the beans and corn:
Add black beans and corn to the skillet. Stir gently and cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. 🌽
Prepare toppings:
While the meat simmers, dice your tomatoes and shred the lettuce if not prepped. Optional: chop cilantro and cut lime wedges. 🍅
Assemble the bowls:
Divide rice into 4 bowls. Top with meat mixture, lettuce, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and a spoonful of salsa.
Finish and serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

💡 Pro Tips

Storage: Keep leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Store toppings separately for best texture.
Make it vegetarian: Swap meat for more beans, sautéed mushrooms, or crumbled tofu with taco seasoning.
Meal prep win: Cook extra rice and freeze in portions for future bowls.
Spice it up: Add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle crema for an extra kick! 🌶️

📊 Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 bowl	500	25g	40g	20g	7g	6g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.