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One-Pan Vegan Burrito Bowls - Easy, Hearty, and Weeknight-Friendly

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati works)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained if canned)
  • 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes with juices (fire-roasted if available)
  • 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (plus a splash more if needed)
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4–1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder or cayenne (optional for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: avocado or guacamole, shredded lettuce, salsa, pickled jalapeños, dairy-free sour cream, hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Warm the pan: Heat 1–2 tablespoons oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Choose a pan with a lid so the rice can steam properly.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Bloom the spices: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and chipotle or cayenne (if using). Stir for 30–60 seconds to toast the spices. This step boosts flavor.
  4. Toast the rice: Stir in the dry rice and cook 1 minute, coating it with the spiced oil and veggies. This helps the grains stay fluffy.
  5. Add the liquids and mix-ins: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir in the black beans, corn, salt, and a few grinds of pepper.
  6. Simmer gently: Bring to a light boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 18–22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
  7. Rest and fluff: Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Uncover, squeeze in the lime juice, and fluff with a fork. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve in bowls with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or dairy-free sour cream.