Save A vibrant, satisfying bowl featuring fluffy rice, hearty beans, sweet corn, and classic Tex-Mex toppings andamp;mdash; perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
I first made these burrito bowls for a last-minute family dinner and was surprised by how quickly everyone grabbed their favorite toppings. The combination of hearty beans and fresh veggies always gets rave reviews!
Ingredients
- Long-grain white or brown rice: 1 cup
- Water: 2 cups
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black beans: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Frozen corn kernels: 1 cup
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Ground cumin: 1/2 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Avocado: 1, diced
- Red onion: 1/2 cup, finely diced
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Lime: 1, cut into wedges
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (optional): 1/2 cup
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): 1/2 cup
- Optional additions: Sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, salsa or hot sauce
Instructions
- Cook the rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until tender and water is absorbed (about 15 minutes for white rice, 35 to 40 minutes for brown rice). Fluff with a fork.
- Prepare beans and corn:
- While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add frozen corn and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through. Add black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until heated and fragrant.
- Assemble the bowls:
- Divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each with the bean and corn mixture.
- Add toppings:
- Arrange cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, cilantro, cheese, and sour cream (if using) on each bowl. Add any desired optional toppings.
- Serve:
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over bowls just before serving.
Save My kids love making their own bowls with extra salsa and crunch from the lettuce. Everyone has their favorite combination and it feels like a family taco night with less fuss!
Required Tools
Medium saucepan with lid, skillet, chef's knife, cutting board, serving bowls
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if cheese or sour cream are used. May contain traces of gluten if non-certified ingredients are selected. Always check all product labels carefully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (without optional cheese or sour cream): 340 calories, 7 g total fat, 62 g carbohydrates, 9 g protein.
Save Bring these burrito bowls to your table for a meal that is always a hit. Quick, nourishing, and easy for family meal prep!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted for white rice; just increase the cooking time accordingly and adjust water levels if needed.
- → How do I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit the cheese and replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or skip it entirely to keep it vegan.
- → What spices enhance the flavor of the beans and corn?
Cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder are key seasonings that provide a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy taste.
- → Can I add protein to this bowl?
Yes, grilled chicken or tofu can be added for extra protein, complementing the existing flavors well.
- → What optional toppings can I include?
Sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, salsa, or hot sauce are great options to customize heat and freshness.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, when using certified gluten-free ingredients, this bowl is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.