Ground Beef Taco Bowls with Homemade Taco Seasoning

If you love taco night but want something balanced and easy to prep ahead, these Ground Beef Taco Bowls are for you. They’re made with lean ground beef, a homemade taco seasoning blend, and fresh toppings like corn, peppers, and avocado. Each bowl delivers over 30 grams of protein, and the entire meal comes together in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy moms, meal prep days, or anyone trying to eat cleaner without giving up flavor.

If you need a quick, high-protein dinner that the whole family will love, these Ground Beef Taco Bowls are a go-to. They’re balanced, easy to meal prep, and made with simple pantry spices — no store-bought seasoning packets required.

The homemade taco seasoning gives the beef a rich, smoky flavor with hints of cumin, garlic, and achiote paste. You can serve it over rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter option. These bowls pack perfectly for lunch or make an easy weeknight dinner in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

For the beef

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional if using very lean beef)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds extra depth)
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp achiote paste (dissolved in 1–2 tbsp warm water)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of ½ lime

For the bowls

• 2 cups cooked rice or cauliflower rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced or diced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, Greek yogurt or sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the beef
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil if needed, then add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart, until browned and nearly cooked through.

Step 2: Add the seasoning
Sprinkle in cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the meat evenly.

Step 3: Add the achiote paste
Dissolve the achiote paste in warm water to make a slurry, then pour into the skillet. Stir until the beef is coated and the mixture turns a deep reddish color.

Step 4: Simmer
Let it cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together and the sauce to slightly thicken. Add salt, pepper, and lime juice to taste.

Step 5: Assemble your bowls
Start with a base of rice or cauliflower rice. Layer the seasoned beef, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Top with avocado, cilantro, and your favorite extras like salsa or shredded cheese.

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Meal Prep Tip

Store the components separately in airtight containers. Reheat the beef and rice before serving, then add fresh toppings for easy weekday lunches or dinners.

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Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

Serves 4

• Calories: 440
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 7g