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A close-up of a layered Taco Rice Bowl with a fork taking a bite, showing the seasoned beef, rice, beans, and fresh toppings.

5 Simple Secrets for a Mind-Blowing Taco Rice Bowl

Chef Andrew
Tex-Mex perfection in a bowl! Fluffy rice, spicy chipotle beef, creamy guac, and fresh toppings—ready in 35 minutes. These secrets guarantee maximum flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Tex-Mex
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Blender

Ingredients
  

Base & Protein

  • 1 cup white or brown rice uncooked
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey

Aromatics & Spices

  • 0.33 cup onion chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño finely chopped (optional)
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.25 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 4 tablespoons water

Toppings

  • 1 (15oz) can black beans rinsed and drained
  • 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (divided)
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 0.33 cup salsa for topping
  • 0.33 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

Instructions
 

  • Cook rice according to package directions. Rinse first for fluffier results.
  • Brown ground beef in olive oil over medium-high heat (5-8 minutes). Add onions, jalapeño, and garlic; cook 2 minutes.
  • Stir in tomato paste, salt, and spices (chili powder, paprika, oregano). Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Blend chipotle peppers with water. Add sauce and black beans to skillet. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
  • Mash avocado with 1 Tbsp cilantro and salt for quick guac.
  • Assemble bowls: rice, meat mixture, guac, salsa, cheese, and remaining cilantro.

Notes

Secret #1: Don't drain the beef fat—it adds flavor! Secret #2: Blend chipotle peppers for a smooth, smoky sauce.
Keyword Family Friendly, Meal Prep, One-Bowl Meal