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A close-up overhead view of a homemade taco rice bowl, showing the texture of the seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice.

Taco Rice Bowl: The Ultimate 30-Minute Meal

This quick and easy Taco Rice Bowl recipe is the perfect 30-minute meal! Learn how to make this delicious bowl with perfectly seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and all your favorite customizable toppings for a healthy weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Seasoned Taco Meat
  • 1 lb lean ground beef 90/10 recommended
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 0.66 cup water or beef broth
For the Rice and Assembly
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, beans, corn, sour cream, salsa, avocado

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Medium saucepan with lid

Method
 

  1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil with the olive oil and salt. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed. Let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Seasoning: While rice cooks, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart. Drain excess grease.
  4. Season the Meat: Stir the spice mix into the beef for 30 seconds. Pour in the water or beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
  5. Assemble Your Bowls: Layer rice into the bottom of each bowl. Top with the seasoned taco meat, followed by your favorite toppings like lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, and salsa. Serve immediately.

Notes

Toasting Tip: For extra flavor, toast the dry rice in the saucepan with olive oil for 1-2 minutes before adding the liquid.
Storage: Store cooked meat and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.