Taco Burrito Bowl — yes, that’s the name, because you can enjoy it three ways: as a taco, a burrito, or a hearty bowl. It’s a flexible, family-friendly meal that’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and makes excellent leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Taco Burrito Bowl
- 3-in-1 Meal: Enjoy it your way — taco, burrito, or bowl.
- Healthy & Hearty: Lean ground meat and pinto beans provide protein while fresh vegetables add texture and nutrients.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it once and enjoy it all week; it also freezes well if you want to double the batch.
- Family Favorite: Toppings are fully customizable so everyone can personalize their plate.
Making the Taco Burrito Bowl
Start by cooking the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break the meat into small pieces as it browns so it cooks evenly. When the meat is mostly done, add the minced garlic and about half of the taco seasoning. Continue cooking until the meat is fully cooked, then drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.
Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven combine the rinsed pinto beans, rinsed rice, beef broth (or vegetable broth), chopped Roma tomato, salsa, half the shredded cheddar, chopped onion, chopped cilantro, and the remaining taco seasoning. Stir well to distribute the ingredients, then spread the cooked meat evenly over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes, until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven and let it rest briefly before serving.
Pro Tips & Variations
- Add heat: Stir in jalapeños, hot sauce, or chopped chipotle for extra spice.
- Lower carbs: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or omit it entirely for a low-carb bowl.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the meat for extra beans, lentils, or firm tofu.
- Extra creaminess: Fold in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.
Serving Your Taco Burrito Bowl
To serve as tacos, warm corn or flour tortillas and fill them with the cheesy mixture. For burritos, use a large warm flour tortilla and wrap tightly. For a bowl, place a bed of shredded lettuce in each bowl and spoon the mixture on top.
Garnish
Toppings bring everything together. Offer choices like sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped onions, fresh cilantro, extra cheese, chopped jalapeños, or an extra scoop of salsa so everyone can customize their plate.
Taco Burrito Bowl Recipe Card
Taco Burrito Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef (or turkey)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.25 oz. packet taco seasoning, divided
- 15.5 oz. can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups uncooked rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 Roma tomato, chopped
- 1 cup salsa, store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it browns. Add the minced garlic and half the taco seasoning. Cook until the meat is done, then drain excess fat.
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In a Dutch oven, combine beans, rice, broth, chopped tomato, salsa, half the cheddar, onion, cilantro, and the remaining taco seasoning. Spread the cooked meat over the top and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar.
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Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes, until the rice is tender and cheese is melted. Serve in tortillas or over lettuce for bowls. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 69 g
| Protein: 31 g
Storage & Meal Prep
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Pack in one large container or in individual portions for easy lunches. Reheat until warmed through before serving.
To freeze, place cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
Connect & Notes
If you enjoy this recipe, feel free to share your version on social media and tag the account that inspired it. Leave feedback or a rating where you found the recipe — it helps others discover it and helps the creator improve.
Wishing you a great meal and a wonderful day.
