Easy Meal Prep Taco Bowls Recipe with Cilantro Lime Rice

If you're anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for a meal that’s as delicious as it is convenient—especially when it comes to meal prep. Enter these taco bowls!

They’re loaded with seasoned ground beef, colorful veggies, and zesty cilantro lime rice, all topped with a smoky chipotle lime crema that adds just the right kick.

Not only are these bowls packed with flavor, but they’re also incredibly easy to make and perfect for busy days. Just a little prep, and you've got lunches (or dinners!) ready to go for the whole week. Because, let’s be honest, we could all use a little less stress and a little more taco in our lives.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well with this recipe. Just use the same seasoning for consistent flavor.

2. Can I freeze these taco bowls?
You can freeze the cooked beef, rice, and veggies, but leave out the crema and any fresh toppings. Add those after reheating for best texture and taste.

3. What other toppings go well with these bowls?
Feel free to add shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, guacamole, salsa, or fresh chopped cilantro for added flavor.

4. How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?
Be sure to fluff the rice with a fork after cooking and let it cool slightly before assembling the bowls. This helps it stay firm in the fridge.

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Easy Meal Prep Taco Bowls Recipe with Cilantro Lime Rice

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Author Kim Alexander

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Ingredients

For the Taco Bowls:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can black beans, drained & rinsed
• ½ yellow onion, diced
• 2 bell peppers (any colors), diced
• Cilantro Lime Rice (recipe below)
• Chipotle Lime Crema (recipe below)

For the Cilantro Lime Rice:

• 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
• 2.5 cups water
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt to taste

For the Chipotle Lime Crema:

• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1-2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1-2 tablespoons water (optional, to thin)
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add ground beef.
2. Break apart the beef and cook until browned.
3. Add half a packet of taco seasoning and stir to combine. Set aside.
4. In the same pan, add diced onion and bell peppers.
5. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
6. Add jasmine rice and water to a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 12 minutes or until rice is cooked.
7. Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or yogurt), chipotle chili powder, lime zest, and lime juice.
9. Thin with water if needed, and season with salt to taste.
10. Divide the cooked cilantro lime rice into meal prep containers.
11. Top with seasoned ground beef, sautéed veggies, and black beans.
12. Drizzle with chipotle lime crema or serve it on the side.

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