Save A vibrant, satisfying bowl featuring fluffy rice, hearty beans, sweet corn, and classic Tex-Mex toppings (perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.)
The first time I made these rice, bean, and corn burrito bowls was on a lively evening when time was short and our pantry was full of Tex-Mex favorites. They quickly became a go-to for colorful family dinners.
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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
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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 a fork.
- Prepare beans and corn:
- While rice cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add frozen corn and cook 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through. Add black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook 3 to 4 minutes until heated and fragrant.
- Assemble the bowls:
- Divide cooked rice among four bowls. Top each with bean and corn mixture.
- Add toppings:
- Arrange cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, cilantro, cheese, and sour cream (if using) on each bowl. Add optional toppings as desired.
- Serve:
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over bowls just before serving.
Save Sharing this meal around the table always brings a burst of laughter and requests for extra toppings (especially avocado.) Everyone enjoys customizing their bowl their own way.
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Required Tools
Medium saucepan, skillet, chefs knife, cutting board, and serving bowls are all you need for fuss-free prep.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if cheese or sour cream is used. If using non-certified ingredients, may not be gluten-free. Check labels for potential allergens in beans and corn.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 340 calories, 7 g total fat, 62 g carbohydrates, and 9 g protein. Values do not include cheese or sour cream.
Save
Customize each serving with your favorite toppings. This bowl is best enjoyed fresh with a squeeze of lime just before eating.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of rice works best for this bowl?
Long-grain white or brown rice can be used depending on preference; brown rice adds more fiber and a nuttier taste but requires longer cooking.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, omit cheese and use a dairy-free alternative or skip sour cream to keep it completely plant-based.
- → How can I add more protein to this meal?
Consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or extra beans for a higher protein content without compromising flavor.
- → What spices enhance the bean and corn mixture?
Cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder create a warm and slightly smoky profile, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of corn.
- → What toppings add freshness and texture?
Cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, red onion, and cilantro introduce brightness and varied textures, balancing the heartiness of grains and beans.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, provided all ingredients, especially canned beans and corn, are certified gluten-free.