Print

Easy Taco Rice Bowl (Quick and Flavorful Dinner Idea!)

Easy taco rice bowl with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream in a white bowl
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This easy taco rice bowl is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and customizable toppings. Ready in 25 minutes using pre-cooked rice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (pre-cooked or microwavable)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup salsa

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned with no pink remaining, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain off excess fat carefully.
  2. Stir in the taco seasoning and 3/4 cup water. Mix well to coat the beef evenly. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and clings to the meat. If sauce is still thin after 3 minutes, simmer one additional minute.
  3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. If refrigerated, warm in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds, stirring once halfway through, until hot throughout.
  4. Divide the rice evenly among four serving bowls as the base layer.
  5. Spoon the seasoned beef over the rice. Add shredded cheddar cheese first, then layer on lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and salsa. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Total time of 25 minutes assumes pre-cooked or microwavable rice. Add 18 to 20 minutes if cooking rice from scratch.
  • Stir in a drained can of black beans or corn with the seasoned beef for extra fiber and volume.
  • Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze the seasoned beef for up to 3 months.
  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version – cook to 165 degrees F internal temperature.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.benefitiany.com/easy-taco-rice-bowl/