Dinner

Taco Rice Bowl Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon December 2, 2025December 2, 2025

Introduction

The Taco Rice Bowl is a vibrant and satisfying meal that combines seasoned meat, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings in one bowl. It’s easy to prepare and customizable to suit any taste, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or casual gathering favorite.

A close-up of a bowl filled with six visible food layers arranged side by side. The bottom layer appears to be a mix of cooked rice and black beans, yellow corn kernels form the next layer on the right side, followed by small chunks of fresh green avocado slices. On the left, there is a pile of cooked, browned ground meat mixed with bits of celery or onion. Above the meat, a sprinkling of finely grated bright orange cheddar cheese adds texture. The center and top layers feature diced red tomatoes and a generous dollop of thick white sour cream, all sprinkled with chopped fresh green cilantro leaves. The bowl is white and is set on a white marbled surface. A blurred white bowl with a green dip is in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 teaspoon taco seasoning (optional, for the rice)
1 pound ground beef, chicken, turkey, or plant-based protein
2 tablespoons taco seasoning (for the meat)
1/2 cup water
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

Step 1: Cook the rice according to package instructions if not using pre-cooked rice. For extra flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon of taco seasoning once the rice is cooked.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your choice of ground meat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
Step 3: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning over the meat, then pour in 1/2 cup of water. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 4: While the meat simmers, prepare your toppings by shredding lettuce, dicing tomatoes, and slicing jalapeños and avocado if using.
Step 5: Assemble the bowl by starting with a base of seasoned rice. Add the cooked meat on top, then layer with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and cheese.
Step 6: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, then finish with sliced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and avocado slices if desired.
Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy warm. Add extra hot sauce or salsa for an extra kick if you like.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh vegetables for toppings to enhance the crunch and flavor of your bowl.
Try swapping ground meat with plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Add black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.
Mix cilantro lime dressing into the rice for a zesty twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the meat and rice separately in the microwave or on the stove, then add fresh toppings to maintain their texture. Avoid reheating sour cream or avocado; add these fresh when serving.