This Mexican Burrito Bowl is one of those meals that looks impressive but is actually very simple. You get warm seasoned rice, savory taco beef, hearty beans, sweet corn, and fresh toppings all in one bowl. Every bite has flavor and texture. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and satisfying enough for the weekend.
Servings: 4
Total Time: 40 minutes
Why I Love This Recipe
The first time I made burrito bowls at home, I was surprised at how easy they were. I used to order them all the time. Then I realized it’s just layers of simple ingredients cooked well.
Now I love making this recipe because:
- It’s packed with flavor but uses basic pantry ingredients.
- It feels fresh and filling at the same time.
- You can adjust the toppings however you like.
- It works great for meal prep.
- It looks bright and colorful on the table.
It’s the kind of meal that never feels boring.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (divided)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water (for meat)
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan with lid
- Large skillet
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 4 round serving bowls
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice (increase cook time).
- Use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Add sliced jalapeños for heat.
- Use Monterey Jack instead of cheddar.
- Add shredded lettuce for crunch.
Make Ahead Tips
- Cook rice and taco meat up to 3 days in advance.
- Store toppings separately in airtight containers.
- Reheat rice and meat before assembling.
Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Add 1 cup uncooked rice, 2 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 tablespoon olive oil to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Remove from heat, squeeze in the juice of 1 lime, and fluff with a fork.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound ground beef. Cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart. Stir in 1 packet taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thick and coated.
Step 3: Warm Beans and Corn
Add 1 can drained and rinsed black beans and 1 cup corn kernels to a small saucepan. Heat for 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
Step 4: Prep the Toppings
Dice 1 cup tomatoes. Slice 1 avocado. Chop 1/4 cup red onion and 1/4 cup cilantro. Measure 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup sour cream.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the lime rice into 4 round bowls. Top each bowl with seasoned ground beef, warm black beans and corn, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
Macros Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Browning the beef builds deep flavor through caramelization. Simmering the taco seasoning with water helps the spices soak into the meat. Lime juice brightens the rice and balances the rich beef and creamy toppings. Layering warm and cool ingredients gives the bowl great texture.
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the rice and making it mushy.
- Not draining extra grease from the beef.
- Skipping seasoning in the rice.
- Adding toppings while meat is too hot, which can wilt fresh ingredients.
What to Serve With
- Tortilla chips and salsa
- Guacamole
- Fresh fruit salad
- A simple green salad
- Lime sparkling water
Leftovers and Storage
Store rice, meat, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat rice and beef before serving. Slice avocado fresh for best results.
This Mexican Burrito Bowl is fresh, filling, and full of flavor. It’s easy to make and easy to love. Try it once, and it might become a regular in your kitchen.
