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 made these burrito bowls for a busy weeknight, and they quickly became a staple because everyone can add their favorite toppings. The combination of warm rice and the spiced bean-corn mix is so comforting!
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
- Sliced jalapeños (optional): as desired
- Shredded lettuce (optional): as desired
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional): as desired
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. 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 minutes until warmed through. Add black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 3 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 Sharing these bowls with my family is always fun. Everyone dives in and customizes their own, and it makes dinner lively and interactive!
Required Tools
Medium saucepan with lid, skillet, chef's knife, cutting board, and serving bowls are all you need to create this meal.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if cheese or sour cream is included. Always check canned beans and frozen corn labels for potential allergens and gluten traces.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (without optional cheese or sour cream): 340 calories, 7 g total fat, 62 g carbohydrates, 9 g protein.
Save Quick to prepare and fun to customize, these burrito bowls make every night a little more special. Enjoy mixing and matching toppings with the whole family!
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice cooks quickly and stays fluffy, while brown rice adds nuttiness and extra fiber but requires longer cooking.
- → Can I make this bowl vegan?
Yes, omit cheese and use dairy-free yogurt or skip sour cream to keep it completely plant-based.
- → How can I add protein to this dish?
Add grilled chicken, tofu, or extra beans to boost protein content without altering flavors much.
- → What spices enhance the bean and corn mixture?
Cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper create a warm, smoky, and mildly spicy profile.
- → Are there gluten concerns with this meal?
This bowl is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free beans and corn, but always check packaging.
- → What optional toppings complement the bowl?
Jalapeños, shredded lettuce, salsa, or hot sauce add extra flavor and texture to customize each serving.