Name: Easy Taco Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken); 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/4 cup water; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn (frozen or canned); 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1 sliced avocado or 1/2 cup guacamole; Fresh cilantro, optional; Lime wedges, optional

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This easy taco rice bowl is one of my favorite go-to meals when I need something fast, filling, and full of flavor. It combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and all the best taco toppings into one hearty bowl. It’s like taco night made even easier—and I can customize it exactly how I like.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple to throw together and uses ingredients I almost always have in my kitchen. It’s a fun, build-your-own meal that works for picky eaters and hungry teens alike. Whether I’m meal prepping or making a quick weeknight dinner, this rice bowl hits all the right notes: savory, spicy, cheesy, and fresh.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
Taco seasoning
Cooked white or brown rice
Black beans (drained and rinsed)
Corn (frozen or canned)
Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Salsa or pico de gallo
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Sliced avocado or guacamole
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Lime wedges (optional)

Directions

I cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s browned, then drain any excess grease.
I stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water, then let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
While the beef cooks, I heat the rice and prepare the toppings.
I start building the bowls by layering rice at the bottom.
Then I add taco meat, black beans, corn, cheese, and all my favorite toppings.
I finish it off with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I like switching things up by using cauliflower rice for a low-carb version or adding jalapeños for extra heat. Sometimes I replace the ground beef with shredded chicken or even grilled tofu to make it vegetarian. I also swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to keep it lighter, and I’ve even added tortilla chips on top for crunch.

storage/reheating

I store the meat, rice, and toppings separately in the fridge so everything stays fresh. The taco meat and rice keep well for 3-4 days in airtight containers. When I’m ready to eat, I just reheat the meat and rice in the microwave, then add fresh toppings. It’s perfect for meal prep.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, I often use store-bought taco seasoning when I’m in a hurry, but homemade seasoning works great too.

What type of rice works best?

I usually use white or brown rice, but jasmine, basmati, or even quinoa work well depending on what I have.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely. I just skip the meat and add more beans, corn, and maybe some sautéed peppers or mushrooms.

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on the taco seasoning and salsa I use. For a milder version, I go easy on the seasoning and use mild salsa.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s one of my favorite recipes to prep ahead. I cook everything in advance and assemble bowls as needed.

Conclusion

This easy taco rice bowl brings all the taco flavors I love into a quick, customizable, and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy nights or laid-back weekends when I want something simple but full of flavor. I can mix and match toppings based on what I’m craving, and it always turns out delicious.

Easy Taco Rice Bowl

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This easy taco rice bowl is a quick, customizable, and flavorful meal featuring seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and all your favorite taco toppings. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Author: Mayaa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)
1 packet taco seasoning
1/4 cup water
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 sliced avocado or 1/2 cup guacamole
Fresh cilantro, optional
Lime wedges, optional

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Stir in taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
While the beef cooks, heat the rice and prepare your toppings.
To assemble, start with a layer of rice in each bowl.
Add taco meat, black beans, corn, and cheese.
Top with salsa, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado or guacamole.
Garnish with lime juice and fresh cilantro, if using. Serve immediately.