Ingredients
For the Ground Beef
- 1 lb ground beef (85-90% lean)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if beef is very lean)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Bowls
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
Optional Toppings
- Avocado or guacamole
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Jalapeños
Instructions
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Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil if needed. Sauté onion for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
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Season: Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it up. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in taco seasoning and broth; simmer 5 minutes until saucy. Season to taste.
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Warm Sides: Heat black beans and corn (microwave or stovetop).
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Assemble: Divide rice among bowls. Top with seasoned beef, beans, corn, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
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Finish: Add desired toppings and a squeeze of lime.
Notes
Cooking Tips
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Extra Flavor: Toast the rice with a little oil before cooking, or finish with lime juice and cilantro.
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Lean Swap: Use 93% lean beef and add a splash more broth to keep it juicy.
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Meal Prep: Store components separately for up to 4 days; reheat beef and rice before assembling.
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Heat Control: Adjust spice with smoked paprika or chipotle powder for depth.
Variations
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Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
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High-Protein: Add extra beef or top with a fried egg.
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Tex-Mex Chicken: Replace beef with ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken.
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Vegetarian: Use seasoned lentils or crumbled tofu with taco spices.
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Dairy-Free: Skip cheese and sour cream; add avocado and salsa.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 32g