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A close-up shot of the perfectly seasoned ground beef for the taco rice bowl, simmering in a skillet with spices.

Taco Rice Bowl: The Ultimate 30-Minute Weeknight Dinner

This Taco Rice Bowl is the ultimate weeknight dinner! Ready in 30 minutes, this easy and customizable ground beef rice bowl is packed with flavor and perfect for the whole family and meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Taco Rice Bowl
  • 1 lb lean ground beef 85/15 or 90/10 recommended
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
  • 4 cups cooked rice white or brown
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Saucepan For cooking rice

Method
 

  1. Prepare rice according to package directions.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the diced onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices. Add water, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to combine.
  5. Layer rice, taco meat, and your favorite toppings into bowls. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Meal Prep: Store the cooked meat, rice, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Customize: Feel free to add any of your favorite taco toppings like black beans, corn, jalapeños, or guacamole.