Description

This Taco Rice Bowl is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring seasoned ground meat served over a bed of rice and topped with fresh, crunchy vegetables and creamy elements like sour cream or Greek yogurt. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Rice:

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 teaspoon taco seasoning (optional)

For the Meat:

1 pound ground beef, chicken, turkey, or plant-based protein
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1/2 cup water

Toppings:

1 cup shredded lettuce
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Avocado slices (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Rice: If you do not have pre-cooked rice, prepare the rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning once the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Prepare the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your choice of ground meat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spatula as it browns evenly and cooks through.
Add Seasoning: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning over the browned meat. Pour in 1/2 cup of water, stir well to combine all ingredients, and let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly and absorb the seasoning.
Prepare Toppings: While the meat simmers, chop and prep your toppings: shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, slice jalapeños and avocado if using, and gather fresh cilantro for garnish.
Assemble the Bowl: Begin by placing a generous scoop of seasoned rice into each serving bowl. Top with the cooked and seasoned meat mixture. Layer on shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Finish by adding sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices if desired.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Taco Rice Bowl while warm for the best taste and texture. Optionally, add hot sauce or salsa to enhance the flavors further.

Notes

You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based protein for variation.
Use brown rice for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
Adjust spiciness by modifying the amount of jalapeños or taco seasoning.
To make this dish vegetarian, use plant-based meat and omit cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
Leftover taco meat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For meal prep, keep toppings separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Keywords: Taco Rice Bowl, taco meat, seasoned rice, quick dinner, Mexican bowl, ground beef recipe, healthy taco bowl