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A vibrant taco rice bowl overflowing with fresh ingredients

Classic Taco Rice Bowl

A flavorful and easy-to-make dish, this classic taco rice bowl combines seasoned ground meat with fluffy rice and fresh toppings for a satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup white or brown rice
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 lb lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
  • 1/2 cup water for seasoning
Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or taco blend)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 avocado, diced or sliced
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • large skillet

Method
 

Prepare the Rice
  1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice, cumin, and chili powder, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted.
Cook the Rice
  1. Pour in broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-45 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
Cook the Protein
  1. While rice cooks, brown the ground meat in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
Add Aromatics & Seasoning
  1. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the cooked meat and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Season the Protein
  1. Stir in taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 5 minutes until liquid evaporates and meat is well-coated.
Assemble Your Bowls
  1. Scoop seasoned rice into bowls, top with taco meat, and add shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream/yogurt, avocado, and fresh cilantro.

Notes

For a healthier option, use brown rice and lean ground turkey or chicken. You can also customize your toppings with corn, black beans, or a squeeze of lime juice.