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A close-up overhead shot of a finished taco rice bowl, served in a rustic ceramic bowl and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime.

Taco Rice Bowl: The Ultimate 30-Minute Weeknight Meal

This Taco Rice Bowl is the ultimate 30-minute weeknight meal! Packed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and your favorite toppings, this easy and customizable recipe is a family favorite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Seasoned Ground Beef
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 small Onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 lb Ground Beef 85/15 or 90/10 recommended
  • 1 packet Taco Seasoning about 2 tablespoons
  • 1/2 cup Water or Beef Broth
For the Bowls
  • 4 cups Cooked Rice from about 1.5 cups uncooked rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup Corn canned or frozen (thawed)
  • Optional Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, guacamole, salsa

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Saucepan
  • 1 Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Prepare rice according to package directions.
  2. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
  4. Stir in the taco seasoning and water or beef broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
  5. To assemble the taco rice bowls, divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top with the seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, and your desired toppings.

Notes

Meal Prep: Store cooled components in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat and assemble before serving.
Variations: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, shredded chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.