Taco Bell Seasoned Rice Recipe

Ready to infuse your meals with some fiesta flair? You know you are!

Taco Bell seasoned rice might just be the perfect addition you’ve been searching for!

This simple and flavorful side dish combines the taste of Mexican spices with the texture of fluffy rice in under 30 minutes.

Make sure you toast the rice and seasoning before simmering; it really enhances the flavors!

Whether inside burritos or next to tacos, this rice is versatile and can be tweaked with your favorite additions like onions or peppers.

How to Make Taco Bell Seasoned Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup Rice (long-grain, such as jasmine or basmati)
• 1 ½ cups Water
• ½ cup Tomato Sauce
• ⅓ cup Yellow Onion (minced)
• 2 tbsp Red Bell Pepper (minced)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Chili Powder
• ½ tsp Cumin
• ½ tsp Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat.

Once the oil is hot, add the minced yellow onion and red bell pepper.

Sauté until they are soft and the onion is translucent, which takes about 5 minutes.

Step 2:

Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, and salt.

Let these spices cook with the onion and pepper mixture for an additional minute to release their flavors.

Step 3:

Add the rice to the pot.

Stir well to coat the rice with the oil and spices, ensuring each grain is covered.

Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4:

Pour in the water and tomato sauce.

Stir the mixture, then increase the heat to bring it to a boil.

Once boiling, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes.

Step 5:

After 18 minutes, check to make sure the rice is cooked and the liquid absorbed.

If needed, cover and let it cook for a few more minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Rice Choice

Choose long-grain rice like jasmine or basmati for the best texture, as they hold up well and absorb flavors beautifully.

Spice it Up

Feel free to add more chili powder if you prefer a spicier kick, but taste as you go so it doesn’t get too hot.

Flavor Infusion

For a richer flavor, you can use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water, which adds depth to the dish.

Perfect Simmer

When you simmer, make sure the lid is tightly fitted on the pot, so the rice steams correctly and absorbs all those delicious flavors.

Fluff Before Serving

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to break up any clumps and give it a lighter, airier texture that pairs perfectly with tacos or burritos.

What to Serve with Taco Bell Seasoned Rice Recipe

Grilled Chicken

You can serve your Taco Bell seasoned rice with grilled chicken for a delicious meal.

The smoky, charred flavor of the chicken complements the spices in the rice beautifully.

This pairing is simple yet full of flavor, making it an easy go-to option.

Black Beans

Pairing your seasoned rice with black beans is another classic choice.

The creamy texture of the beans goes well with the seasoned rice, creating a satisfying dish.

You can season the beans with a bit of cumin and garlic to enhance their flavor even more.

Spicy Shrimp

If you’re looking for something a bit different, serve your rice with spicy shrimp.

The combination of heat from the shrimp and the seasoned rice will excite your palate.

Season your shrimp with chili powder, lime juice, and garlic for a flavorful punch.

Avocado Salad

For a fresh twist, try serving the rice with avocado salad.

The creamy avocado contrasts nicely with the seasoned rice, bringing a refreshing element to the meal.

You can toss in some cherry tomatoes and a squeeze of lime for extra zest.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts can be a surprising yet tasty match with your Taco Bell seasoned rice.

Their nutty flavor complements the seasoned rice, adding some depth to your meal.

A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on the roasted sprouts will make them even more delicious.

Variations and Substitutions

One way you can switch things up is by exploring different types of rice such as jasmine or basmati.

Each brings a unique texture and flavor that can give the dish a slightly different twist!

Using brown rice adds a nutty flavor and some extra fiber, which is nice if you’re looking for a healthier option.

Vegetable Add-Ins

Add veggies like corn, peas, or shredded carrots for extra color and nutrition.

Chopped tomatoes or some green onions also make fantastic additions!

Don’t be afraid to use what you have in your kitchen!

Spice it Up

Consider adding spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder if you like extra heat.

A dash of cayenne or hot sauce can also offer a spicy kick!

Different spice blends make the rice customizable to your taste!

How to Store Leftover Taco Bell Seasoned Rice

Storing leftover Taco Bell seasoned rice properly is crucial to maintaining its flavor and ensuring it stays safe to eat.

Allowing rice to cool rapidly is key to preventing bacterial growth and maintaining quality.

Avoid leaving rice at room temperature for more than two hours.

Use Airtight Containers

Transfer the cooled rice into airtight containers to preserve its freshness and moisture.

These containers will help prevent unwanted odors from seeping in, keeping your rice tasting just right.

Store the containers in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Safe Refrigeration Time

Leftover seasoned rice can last in the refrigerator for about four to five days.

Make sure it’s consumed within this time frame to enjoy its best taste and texture.

Freezing Rice

If you won’t eat the rice within a few days, consider freezing it.

Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Remove excess air to avoid freezer burn and retain its delicious flavor when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rice Selection

Using the wrong type of rice can affect the texture and flavor of your seasoned rice!

It’s best to stick with long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati for the best results.

Avoid short-grain or sticky rice, as they can turn mushy when cooked with spices.

Overcooking the Rice

Pay close attention to cooking times and water ratios to avoid ending up with mushy rice!

Make sure to fluff the rice gently with a fork after cooking instead of stirring it too much.

Stirring aggressively can break the grains.

Skipping Sautéing Ingredients

Sautéing spices and vegetables is vital for building authentic flavor in your seasoned rice.

Do not skip this step, as it releases essential oils and enhances taste.

It’s worth taking the extra few minutes to build those flavors before adding your rice and broth.