Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls

Name: Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 lime, juiced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Sour cream; Shredded cheese; Salsa; Jalapeños

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes

I love making Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls because they’re not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether I’m cooking for myself or entertaining friends, these bowls allow for creativity while incorporating healthy ingredients. With just a few pantry staples, I can whip up a meal that’s satisfying, packed with flavor, and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:18:19.479Z

Creating these Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls has become a delightful routine for me. The best part is that I can customize them based on what I have on hand, from different grains like quinoa to a variety of fresh veggies. One trick I’ve learned is to sauté the beans with garlic and spices for extra flavor before layering them in the bowl.

What really brings the bowls together is the fresh avocado and zesty lime I add just before serving. Not only does it enhance the flavor profile, but the creaminess of the avocado balances the spices beautifully. This dish never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love These Burrito Bowls
Nutritious and filling, yet light
Endless customization options for toppings
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

Cooking the Rice to Perfection

The key to cooking brown rice lies in the water-to-rice ratio and cooking time. For this recipe, I find that using 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of rice works best. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the rice and a pinch of salt. Once covered and simmering on low heat, it's crucial to keep the lid on and avoid stirring; this prevents the rice from becoming mushy. After 30 minutes, your rice should be tender with a slightly chewy texture.

If you prefer a more aromatic base for your Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls, consider toasting the brown rice in the pot with a little olive oil for a couple of minutes before adding water. This adds a nutty flavor that's particularly delightful. Just make sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

The Role of Spices and Seasoning

Cumin and chili powder are essential to delivering the vibrant flavors in your burrito bowls. The cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor, while the chili powder brings a mild heat. Feel free to adjust these spices according to your preference; more chili powder will result in a spicier dish. Don't forget to balance these flavors with salt and pepper, which enhance the natural taste of the beans and corn.

When sautéing the black beans and corn, ensure that the heat is medium – too high can cause the beans to break down. Sautéing them for just 5-7 minutes allows the spices to stick while the beans remain intact. The visual cue here is when the mixture becomes hot and slightly glossy.

Ingredients

For the Burrito Bowls

1 cup brown rice
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 avocado, sliced
1 lime, juiced
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional Toppings

Sour cream
Shredded cheese
Salsa
Jalapeños

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the brown rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes until the rice is tender.

Prepare the Beans

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Assemble the Bowls

In each bowl, add a scoop of rice followed by the bean mixture. Top with fresh ingredients like diced red bell pepper and avocado. Squeeze lime juice over the top and garnish with cilantro.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beans while sautéing. These burrito bowls also make excellent leftovers
simply store separately in airtight containers and combine before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These Rice and Bean Burrito Bowls are incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. For a creamy element, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Fresh homemade salsa can bring a burst of flavor, while jalapeños can add a delightful kick to your meal. Arrange your toppings in small bowls to encourage a build-your-own burrito bowl evening with friends or family.

If you're looking to balance flavors, pairing the burrito bowl with a side of chips and guacamole can be a hit. The crunch of the chips contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the avocado and the warmth of the burrito bowl.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great things about these burrito bowls is their make-ahead potential. Both the rice and the bean mixture can be cooked in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you're looking to meal prep for the week, divide the rice and beans into single portions, allowing you to put together your bowls quickly on busy days.

For freezing, allow the rice and bean mixture to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until warm. This makes the bowls a great option for quick dinners when you're short on time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can definitely use white rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Be sure to check any packaged ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan as long as you skip the optional cheese and sour cream.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Separate the rice and beans from toppings to keep everything fresh.