Description
A customizable skillet meal featuring warm rice, seasoned protein or beans, and fresh toppings that comes together quickly for a hearty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pantry Staples
- 2 cups Rice (white, brown, jasmine, or leftover rice) (Warm rice is key for the best texture.)
- 1 lb Ground beef, turkey, or chicken, or 1 can of black beans (Protein can be a mix of meats or beans.)
- 2 tbsp Taco seasoning (Use homemade or store-bought.)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste or salsa (Adds richness and acidity.)
- 1 can Canned corn and beans (Drain and rinse beans for cleanest flavor.)
Fresh Add-ons
- 2 cups Greens (shredded lettuce or chopped spinach) (For crunch and freshness.)
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes, onions, or bell peppers (Use whatever veggies you have.)
- 1 cup Dairy (shredded cheese or Greek yogurt) (Choose cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or cotija.)
- 1 lime Lime wedges (For garnish and extra flavor.)
- 1/4 cup Cilantro (For garnishing and freshness.)
- to taste Pickled jalapeños (For a spicy kick.)
Instructions
Cook the Rice
- Make rice according to package directions or warm leftover rice with a splash of water until fluffy.
Brown the Protein
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground meat and break it into small pieces as it cooks.
- When mostly browned, stir in taco seasoning and tomato paste with a splash of water; simmer for a minute until sauce is fragrant.
- For canned beans, warm them with seasoning, a little oil, and splash of broth in the skillet.
Assemble and Serve
- Spoon hot rice into bowls.
- Add seasoned protein or beans on top.
- Top with corn, diced tomatoes, onion, and greens.
- Finish with cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime, cilantro, and desired sauce.
Notes
This bowl is very forgiving. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have. Leftovers make great lunches the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American, Mexican