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Southwestern rice bowl, healthy rice bowl, vegetarian rice bowl, meatless meal, quick rice bowl recipe, Spanish rice, black beans, avocado salsa verde, easy vegetarian meals, rice bowl with cheese

Southwestern Rice Bowl Recipe

Try this delicious and easy Southwestern Rice Bowl packed with Spanish rice, black beans, melted cheese, crispy jalapeños, and creamy avocado salsa verde. A healthy, meatless meal perfect for any occasion!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Dinner, Dinner Recipes, Food Recipes, Lunch, Main Course, One Pot, One Pot Dishes, Summer Recipes, Vegan Recipes
Cuisine American, Mexican, Southern
Servings 8

Equipment

  • 1 large pot to warm the beans
  • 8 plates or bowls for assembling the rice bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups of precooked Spanish rice (you can use homemade or store-bought)
  • 4 cans of Bush's Taco Style black beans (with the juice)
  • 1 pound of triple cheddar blend cheese (shredded)
  • 4 cups of precooked white queso dip (you can also use store-bought queso)
  • 2 packages of fried crispy jalapeño strips (adds a nice crunch and heat)
  • 1 bottle of salsa verde (or packets of Taco Bell’s new Avocado Salsa Verde)
  • Optional: sour cream, onions, chives, tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, jalapenos, pepperoncini peppers

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Base:Start by heating your precooked Spanish rice in a large pan over low-medium heat. You can also use a microwave to warm it up if you're short on time. Make sure the rice is evenly heated and fluffy.
  • Warm the Black Beans:Drain and rinse the black beans. Place them in a small pot over medium heat and warm them through. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.
  • Melt the Queso:In a separate saucepan, heat your white queso dip over low heat. Stir until it becomes creamy and smooth. If it gets too thick, you can add a small splash of milk to loosen it up.
  • Assemble the Bowls:Once everything is heated, it’s time to assemble your rice bowls. Start with a layer of Spanish rice in each bowl, followed by a generous scoop of black beans.
  • Add the Cheese and Queso:Sprinkle the shredded triple cheddar blend over the beans and rice, and then pour the warm white queso dip over the top. The cheese should melt beautifully into the rice and beans.
  • Top with Jalapeños and Salsa:Add a handful of fried crispy jalapeño strips for some extra crunch and spice. Finally, drizzle your choice of salsa verde (or the Taco Bell Avocado Salsa Verde packets if you’re like me!) over the top for a tangy, creamy finish.
  • Optional: Add your extra toppings you love
  • Serve and Enjoy:You’re now ready to dive in! Serve immediately and enjoy the flavors of the Southwest in every bite.