This Easy One Pot Burrito Bowl is a lifesaver for busy evenings! It’s filled with tasty rice, beans, corn, and your choice of meat, all cooked together in one pot. How great is that?
No need to wash tons of dishes afterward! I love adding lots of toppings like cheese and avocado for a delicious finish. It’s quick, fun, and super satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: You can use beef or chicken for this recipe. If you need a vegetarian option, consider using cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Rice: Long grain white rice is traditional, but you can swap it for brown rice or quinoa. Just remember that cooking times may vary, especially with brown rice, which typically takes longer.
Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh flavors, use fresh diced tomatoes instead. You could also use a can of tomatoes with added spices for an extra kick.
Taco Seasoning: For a homemade version, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking!
How Do I Cook the Rice Without Overcooking It?
Cooking rice in a one-pot meal can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! The key is to use the right ratio of liquid to rice and avoid lifting the lid while it cooks.
- After adding everything, bring the pot to a boil and then cover it tightly.
- Reduce the heat to low to simmer gently. This allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
- Check the rice only after 18 minutes to see if it’s tender and all the liquid is absorbed. If not, cover and cook for a few more minutes.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked rice every time! Enjoy your one pot burrito bowl adventure!
Easy One Pot Burrito Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken (optional for a vegetarian version)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
For the Mixture:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning or a homemade blend (1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, lime wedges, sliced jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one pot burrito bowl takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be ready to serve it in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This will create a lovely base for the dish!
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef or chicken to the pot. Use a spatula to break up the meat and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, roughly 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it away to keep the dish light.
3. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. You want to stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic!
4. Mix in the Rice:
Now it’s time to add the rinsed rice. Stir it well to combine with the meat and onions, making sure every grain of rice gets coated.
5. Combine the Other Ingredients:
Pour the undrained diced tomatoes into the pot along with the corn, black beans, broth, and taco seasoning. Give it a good stir to mix everything together and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
6. Cook the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes. It’s super important to keep the lid on during this time; we want the rice to cook through without being disturbed!
7. Add Cheese:
After the rice has cooked and the liquid is absorbed, take the pot off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pot again and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Gently fluff the mixture with a fork, and then you’re ready to serve! Dish out portions and add any of your favorite toppings like cilantro, avocado, sour cream, salsa, lime wedges, and jalapeños for that extra burst of flavor!
Enjoy your easy and flavorful one pot burrito bowl! It’s perfect for a quick dinner or even meal prep for the week ahead!
FAQ About the Easy One Pot Burrito Bowl
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Just know that brown rice takes longer to cook. You’ll need to increase the liquid to about 2 cups and the cooking time to around 35-40 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness before serving!
What If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning On Hand?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning using spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preference!
How Should I Store Leftover Burrito Bowl?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks dry.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to Customize the Bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to add additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or switch up the beans for pinto or kidney beans. It’s a versatile recipe, so get creative with your favorite ingredients!