There is something incredibly satisfying about assembling your own flavorful and colorful bowl, and these Burrito Bowls hit every note perfectly. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, hearty black beans, and zesty salsa, this dish is a vibrant celebration of textures and tastes that come together beautifully in one bowl. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, Burrito Bowls bring a festive, customizable meal that’s both comforting and exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple staples but they each play their unique role in delivering the authentic flavor and satisfying heartiness of Burrito Bowls. From the rich ground beef to the bright, fresh salsa, every element contributes to a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

2 Tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness to the beef and onions.
1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that anchors the dish with savory flavor.
1 packet taco seasoning: Infuses the beef with classic Mexican spices for that signature bold taste.
1 ½ cups chicken broth, divided: Keeps everything moist and enhances flavor while the rice cooks.
1 can black beans, drained & rinsed, 15 ounces: Brings protein, fiber, and a creamy texture that complements the beef.
1 can corn, drained, 15 ounces: Adds sweetness and a delightful pop with every bite.
1 jar medium salsa, 16 ounces: Adds bright acidity and spice to tie all flavors together.
1 cup brown rice or jasmine rice: Provides a chewy, comforting base for the whole bowl.
Toppings: Shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, avocado, tortilla chips, sour cream — all these extras elevate the bowl with different textures and fresh flavors.

How to Make Burrito Bowls

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onions

Start by pressing the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heating the olive oil until shimmering. Add the ground beef and cook until it turns a rich brown color. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a less greasy bowl. Toss in the diced onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, letting their natural sweetness soften and marry with the beef.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Broth

Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about a minute so the spices lift and coat the meat evenly. This step creates that essential taco flavor foundation your Burrito Bowls are all about.

Step 3: Incorporate Beans, Corn, and Salsa

Mix in the drained black beans, corn, and jar of medium salsa. These ingredients provide incredible texture contrasts — creamy beans, sweet crunchy corn, and the slightly spicy, tangy salsa that brings brightness to the dish.

Step 4: Add Rice and Remaining Broth

Now, carefully layer the uncooked rice on top of the sausage and bean mixture without stirring it in. Pour the remaining ½ cup of chicken broth evenly over the rice to ensure that it cooks properly without burning or sticking to the pot.

Step 5: Pressure Cook the Burrito Bowls

Seal the Instant Pot lid with the vent set to “Sealing”. Choose the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” button setting it to HIGH pressure for exactly 15 minutes. It will take about 10 to 12 minutes to reach pressure before the countdown. Once time is up, perform a quick pressure release to unlock the lid safely.

Step 6: Stir and Prepare to Serve

After opening the lid, stir the entire mixture gently so the rice, meat, beans, and salsa blend into one harmonious filling. Now your Burrito Bowls are ready to be dressed with all your favorite toppings for a meal that feels like a party in a bowl.

How to Serve Burrito Bowls

Garnishes

Garnishing your Burrito Bowls is where you can really make this dish your own. Fresh diced tomatoes add brightness, while creamy avocado slices provide cooling richness. A generous handful of shredded cheese melts slightly, adding indulgence. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream for tang and a crunchy handful of tortilla chips for textural contrast and that satisfying crunch with every bite.

Side Dishes

While these bowls are hearty and full of flavor by themselves, pairing them with side dishes like a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, warm corn tortillas, or a fresh mango salsa can elevate the meal experience. Each side adds a new dimension without overpowering the star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to spice things up for guests or a family meal? Try serving these Burrito Bowls in individual mason jars layered beautifully to showcase all the colorful ingredients. Or arrange components buffet-style so everyone can customize their own bowl including toppings and sides. Presentation is half the fun and adds a festive vibe that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your Burrito Bowls have cooled, portion them into airtight containers and refrigerate. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as tasty if not better the next day. Stored properly, they will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

If you want to keep Burrito Bowls on hand for busy days, they freeze beautifully. Just let the bowls cool completely, package in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave room for expansion and label your containers with dates.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen Burrito Bowls overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm them gently in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. When reheated, refresh with your favorite toppings to revive that fresh, vibrant feel.

FAQs

Can I make Burrito Bowls vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with extra beans, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, or even crumbled tofu for protein. Season the vegetables with taco seasoning as you would the meat to maintain that signature flavor.

Is it necessary to use an Instant Pot for this recipe?

No, you can make Burrito Bowls on the stove or in a slow cooker, but the Instant Pot offers speed and hands-off cooking with fantastic results. Using a pot on the stove just requires a bit more attention to ensure rice is cooked perfectly without burning.

Can I use white rice instead of brown or jasmine rice?

Yes! White rice works just fine but will cook faster—watch the cooking times closely to avoid mushiness. Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and chewier texture while jasmine rice adds a fragrant aroma, so choose based on your preference.

How spicy is the dish?

The spiciness largely depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you use. Using a medium salsa keeps it mild enough for most tastes. You can always adjust by opting for mild salsa or adding fresh jalapeños for more heat.

Can I prepare Burrito Bowls in advance for meal prep?

Yes, they are perfect for meal prep because they store and reheat well without losing flavor. Just avoid adding avocado and tortilla chips until just before eating to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Burrito Bowls that makes them a beloved go-to meal for so many people, including myself. They are vibrant, customizable, and wildly satisfying, bringing together flavors and textures that you crave in one bowl. I can’t encourage you enough to give this recipe a try and embrace the joyful ritual of layering fresh toppings that make each bite exciting. Once you make these Burrito Bowls, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home too!