Save A vibrant, satisfying bowl featuring fluffy rice, hearty beans, sweet corn, and classic Tex-Mex toppings is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
I first started making these burrito bowls when I needed a dinner that felt fresh but came together fast. They truly hit the spot when you crave something colorful and full of texture.
Ingredients
- Long-grain rice: 1 cup white or brown
- Water: 2 cups
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black beans: 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) 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: Cut into wedges
- Shredded cheese (optional): 1/2 cup cheddar or Monterey Jack
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): 1/2 cup
- Sliced jalapenos (optional):
- Shredded lettuce (optional):
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional):
Instructions
- Cook the rice:
- Rinse 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 fork.
- Prepare beans and corn:
- While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add frozen corn and saute 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 These bowls are always a hit at our dinner table, especially on busy weeknights when everyone wants to build their own combination.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan with lid, skillet, chefs knife, cutting board, serving bowls
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using cheese or sour cream. May contain traces of gluten if non-certified ingredients are used. Always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (without optional cheese or sour cream): Calories: 340, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 62 g, Protein: 9 g
Save Finish these bowls with a squeeze of lime to brighten everything up. Enjoy every colorful bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well but requires longer cooking time, around 35–40 minutes, until tender.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply omit cheese and replace sour cream with a dairy-free alternative or leave it out entirely.
- → What spices enhance the flavor in this bowl?
Ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of chili powder add depth and a subtle smoky heat.
- → Are there protein options to add to this bowl?
Grilled chicken or tofu can be added for extra protein and texture.
- → Can I substitute the rice with other grains?
Yes, quinoa or cauliflower rice are excellent alternatives to customize the bowl to your preference.