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Canned Bean and Rice Burrito Bowls - Fast, Fresh, and Budget-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or microwaveable)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup canned corn, drained (optional)
  • 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 large tomato, chopped)
  • 1 avocado, sliced or diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend; optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Hot sauce, to taste (optional)
  • Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, for serving (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook or reheat the rice: Use leftover rice, microwaveable packets, or cook a fresh batch. Fluff with a fork and set aside. For extra flavor, stir in a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt.
  2. Warm the beans: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Stir in the black beans and pinto beans, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 3–5 minutes until heated through and lightly seasoned.
  3. Add the corn and salsa: Stir in the corn and half the salsa. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld. If it looks dry, add a splash of water.
  4. Prep the fresh toppings: Chop onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, and cilantro. Slice or dice the avocado. Set lime wedges aside.
  5. Assemble the bowls: Spoon rice into each bowl. Top with the warm bean mixture. Add bell pepper, onion, tomatoes, and any extras like avocado, cheese, or cilantro.
  6. Finish and serve: Spoon on the remaining salsa. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream if you like, plus a squeeze of lime and hot sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.