Looking for a meal that’s quick, fun, and bursting with flavor?
Meet your new go-to dinner: the Taco Rice Bowl with Doritos!
Imagine the perfect balance of seasoned taco meat, fluffy rice, and all your favorite toppings, finished with the irresistible crunch of nacho cheese Doritos.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or whipping up a crowd-pleaser for Taco Tuesday, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious.
Get ready to dive into a bowl of bold flavors and textures – this recipe is bound to become a household favorite!
Ingredients Needed
To create this irresistible dish, you’ll need:
Essentials:
- Ground beef (1 lb.)
- Taco seasoning (1 packet or homemade)
- Cooked rice (2 cups; white, brown, or Mexican-style rice)
- Nacho cheese Doritos (2 cups, crushed lightly)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Sour cream
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
- Black beans or corn kernels
Swaps and Alternatives:
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a healthier option.
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
How to Make Taco Rice Bowl with Doritos
1. Cook the Taco Meat:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and water as per the packet instructions. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Prepare the Rice:
- Cook your rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, use chicken broth or add a pinch of cumin to the water.
3. Assemble the Bowl:
- Start with a base of rice in each bowl.
- Add a generous scoop of taco meat on top.
- Layer on your favorite toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, beans, and cheese.
4. Add the Crunch:
- Sprinkle a handful of lightly crushed Doritos over the top just before serving. This adds the perfect crunchy texture to every bite.
Tips to Customize Your Taco Rice Bowl
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Here are some ways to make it your own:
Spice it Up:
- Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning for extra heat.
Protein Swaps:
- Swap ground beef for shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even grilled shrimp.
- For a vegetarian option, use black beans, refried beans, or seasoned tofu.
Veggie Boost:
- Mix in sautéed bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added nutrients.
- Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Dorito Flavor Variations:
- Try Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or your favorite Dorito flavor to change things up.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with a side of Mexican street corn salad or guacamole and tortilla chips for a complete meal.
- Creative Serving Styles: Set up a taco rice bowl bar where everyone can build their own bowl with their favorite toppings.
- Transforming Leftovers: Turn leftovers into tacos, burritos, or even nachos by layering the ingredients on tortilla chips and baking until warm.
FAQ’s
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the taco meat and rice in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling the bowls.
What other chips can I use instead of Doritos?
You can use tortilla chips, Fritos, or any other crunchy chips you prefer. Each adds its own unique flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or use spicy taco seasoning to amp up the heat.
Taco Rice Bowl with Doritos Recipe
Ingredients
Essentials:
- 1 lb. Ground beef
- 1 packet Taco seasoning
- 2 cups Cooked rice white, brown, or Mexican-style
- 2 cups Nacho cheese Doritos lightly crushed
Optional Toppings:
- 1 cup Shredded lettuce
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes
- 1 cup Shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- ½ cup Sour cream
- ½ cup Salsa or pico de gallo
- 1 Sliced avocado or ½ cup Guacamole
- ½ cup Black beans or corn kernels
Instructions
Cook the Taco Meat:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and water as per the packet instructions. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Prepare the Rice:
- Cook your rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, use chicken broth or add a pinch of cumin to the water.
Assemble the Bowl:
- Start with a base of rice in each bowl.
- Add a generous scoop of taco meat on top.
- Layer on your favorite toppings: lettuce, tomatoes, beans, and cheese.
Add the Crunch:
- Sprinkle a handful of lightly crushed Doritos over the top just before serving. This adds the perfect crunchy texture to every bite.