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Easy Taco Salad Bowls Your Kids Will Actually Eat

Trying to get your kids to enjoy healthy meals can be a bit of a struggle, but these easy taco salad bowls are here to save the day! Packed with flavor and fun, they bring all the elements of a classic taco into a bowl, making it a meal that’s both delicious and enticing for little ones. With simple ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll have a winner on your hands!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Serving bowls

**Mini Nacho Crunch Bowl**

These Mini Nacho Crunch Bowls pack a punch of flavor with a delightful mix of textures that kids love. With crispy tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, and fresh toppings, this dish is not only tasty but also simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Each bowl is customizable, allowing kids to build their own perfect meal while sneaking in some veggies. They’ll enjoy the satisfying crunch of the chips combined with the savory flavors of the beef and the freshness of the toppings, making this a go-to recipe for family dinners.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Serving bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 2 cups tortilla chips
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning according to package instructions, adding water as needed. Simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  3. Prepare the Bowls: In individual serving bowls, layer the tortilla chips, followed by the seasoned beef.
  4. Add Toppings: Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. Add sour cream and jalapeños if desired.
  5. Serve: Let each kid customize their bowls with their favorite toppings. Enjoy!

**Cheesy Bean & Rice Bowl**

This Cheesy Bean & Rice Bowl is a hit with kids and super easy to whip up! It combines fluffy rice, creamy cheese, and hearty black beans, creating a delicious meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The best part? It’s customizable, so your little ones can add their favorite toppings.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delightful dinner on the table in no time. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this bowl is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Medium pot
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Stirring spoon
  • Serving bowls

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  2. Add the Beans: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the rice and bean mixture, cover, and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
  4. Serve: Scoop the cheesy bean and rice mixture into serving bowls. Top with sour cream and garnish with green onions or cilantro if desired.

**Build-Your-Own Taco Bowl**

These taco bowls are a hit for both kids and adults! The flavors are fresh and vibrant, and the best part is how simple they are to make. Everyone gets to customize their own bowl with their favorite toppings, making it a fun meal for the whole family.

With ingredients like seasoned ground meat, crisp lettuce, and colorful veggies, taco bowls are not only tasty but also nutritious. Plus, they come together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 2 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Corn tortilla chips (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning with a little water. Cook according to the package directions.
  2. Prepare the Rice: While the meat is cooking, prepare rice according to package instructions. Keep it warm.
  3. Assemble the Bowls: In each bowl, layer cooked rice, seasoned meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, black beans, corn, and avocado slices.
  4. Add Toppings: Let everyone add their preferred toppings, like sour cream and cilantro, and serve with corn tortilla chips on the side.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Skillet
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Large serving bowls
  • Cooking spoon

**Taco Tot Bowl**

The Taco Tot Bowl is a fun twist on traditional taco salad that kids will love. With crispy tater tots as the base, this dish combines the flavors of taco seasoning, seasoned ground beef, and a variety of toppings that make it a hit at family dinners. It’s easy to prepare and offers a playful presentation that makes meal time exciting.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The crunchy texture of the tater tots paired with the savory beef and fresh toppings creates a delicious flavor explosion. Plus, you can customize it with your kids’ favorite toppings, ensuring everyone gets exactly what they want!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Serving bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater (optional)

Ingredients

  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup chopped lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced olives (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven according to the package instructions for the tater tots.
  2. Cook the tater tots: Spread the tater tots evenly on a baking sheet and bake until golden and crispy, usually about 25-30 minutes.
  3. Brown the beef: While the tater tots are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Add seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning with a splash of water (follow packet instructions) and cook for an additional 5 minutes until well combined.
  5. Assemble the bowl: Once the tater tots are done, place them in a large serving bowl. Top with the seasoned beef, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, olives, and a dollop of sour cream.
  6. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and serve immediately.

**Sweet Corn & Chicken Taco Bowl**

Sweet Corn & Chicken Taco Bowls are a delightful mix of flavors that kids love. With tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, and fresh toppings, this dish is not only tasty but also easy to whip up. It’s perfect for a family meal where everyone can customize their bowls to their liking!

The combination of savory chicken, sweet corn, and zesty salsa creates a satisfying meal that feels hearty without being overly heavy. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that can be prepared in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large pot or slow cooker
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Bowl for serving
  • Spoon for mixing

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Chopped tomatoes (optional)
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Combine the Chicken and Corn: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the sweet corn and salsa until well combined.
  2. Prepare Rice: Cook the rice according to package directions, and set aside.
  3. Assemble the Bowls: Start with a base of cooked rice in each bowl. Top with the chicken and corn mixture.
  4. Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top if desired, and add chopped tomatoes and fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
  5. Serve: Offer lime wedges for squeezing over the bowls just before eating, enhancing the bright flavors.

**Turkey Taco Pasta Bowl**

This Turkey Taco Pasta Bowl is a fun and tasty twist on traditional taco night that your kids will love. Combining ground turkey, pasta, and classic taco flavors, it’s a simple dish that comes together in no time. The creamy pasta pairs perfectly with seasoned turkey and a sprinkle of cheese, making it a hit for even the pickiest eaters.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this dish for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. It’s not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor, bringing all the goodness of a taco into a delicious bowl that kids will actually want to eat!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Serving bowls

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Turkey: In a skillet, brown the ground turkey over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add Flavor: Stir in the black beans, taco seasoning, and salsa. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well. If needed, add a splash of water to loosen the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve: Divide into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.

**Taco Salad Dino Bowl**

The Taco Salad Dino Bowl is a fun and tasty meal that kids will love. It’s a colorful mix of fresh ingredients, crunchy tortilla chips, and flavorful toppings, all served in a bowl that sparks their imagination. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the chips, paired with the juicy flavors of tomatoes and fresh lettuce. You can customize it easily, adding your favorite toppings to ensure everyone gets a bowl they enjoy. It’s a meal that’s not just nourishing but also encourages kids to get involved in the kitchen!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Serving bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Mixing spoon

Ingredients

  • 1 bag of tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
  • 1/2 cup diced avocado (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, layer the shredded lettuce as the base.
  2. Add Ingredients: Top the lettuce with diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, black beans, sliced olives, and avocado if using.
  3. Serve: Carefully arrange the tortilla chips around the edge of the bowl. Drizzle salsa over the top and add a dollop of sour cream if desired.
  4. Enjoy: Serve immediately and let everyone dig in! Encourage kids to customize their bowls with extra toppings.

**Rainbow Veggie Taco Bowl**

This Rainbow Veggie Taco Bowl is a fun and colorful way to get your kids excited about healthy eating. Bursting with vibrant veggies like bell peppers, tomatoes, and greens, it’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The combination of fresh ingredients creates a crunchy, refreshing dish that everyone will love. You can customize it with your kids’ favorite toppings—think cheese, avocado, or even a dollop of sour cream. It’s a simple recipe that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Chopping knife
  • Cutting board
  • Serving bowls

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (brown or white)
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, and corn. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture and stir until well combined.
  2. Chop the Veggies: Dice the bell peppers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop the red onion. Set aside.
  3. Assemble the Bowls: In individual serving bowls, layer the rice mixture with the chopped veggies, shredded lettuce, and avocado slices.
  4. Add Cheese: Top each bowl with shredded cheese and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Let your kids customize their bowls with extra toppings as they like. Enjoy your colorful and nutritious meal!

**Quesadilla Strip Bowl**

Looking for a fun and tasty meal that your kids will love? Try this Quesadilla Strip Bowl! It’s packed with flavor, featuring crispy quesadilla strips, fresh veggies, and all the classic taco toppings. Kids will enjoy the crunchy texture and delicious taste, making it a hit at the dinner table.

This recipe is simple to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights. Just gather your ingredients, whip up some quesadilla strips, and let everyone build their own bowl. It’s customizable and lets your little ones choose what they want, making mealtime fun!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Ingredients

  • 4 flour tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup cooked chicken or beans
  • 1 cup lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Quesadilla Strips: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle half of the cheese on top, add your choice of cooked chicken or beans, and top with another tortilla. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before cutting into strips.
  2. Assemble the Bowls: In a mixing bowl, layer lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado slices. Add the quesadilla strips on top, and finish with a dollop of sour cream and salsa for extra flavor.
  3. Serve: Let your kids build their own bowls with the toppings they love. Enjoy!

**Mini Meatball Taco Bowl**

These Mini Meatball Taco Bowls are a fun twist on traditional taco night, making them perfect for kids. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, these bowls feature bite-sized meatballs that deliver a tasty punch in every bite. The combination of fresh ingredients and savory meatballs ensures that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy their meal.

With vibrant toppings like sweet corn, diced tomatoes, and fresh cilantro, these bowls are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. Get ready to watch your kids enjoy their food!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon
  • Serving bowls

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons taco seasoning
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup sweet corn (canned or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and taco seasoning. Mix well until fully combined.
  3. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form small meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake the meatballs for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
  5. To assemble the bowls, start with a base of cooked rice, top with meatballs, sweet corn, and diced tomatoes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

**Fruit & Taco Combo Bowl**

The Fruit & Taco Combo Bowl is a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors that your kids will love. This recipe combines the heartiness of taco ingredients with the refreshing taste of fruits, making it both nutritious and fun to eat. It’s simple to whip up, taking just a few minutes to assemble, which is perfect for busy weekdays or casual family dinners.

The combination of black beans, diced mangoes, and a hint of fresh salsa creates a vibrant flavor profile that’s appealing to children. Serve it over fluffy rice for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, kids can customize their bowls, making mealtime entertaining!

Tools and Supplies Needed

  • Mixing bowl
  • Serving bowls
  • Spoon for mixing
  • Knife for chopping
  • Measuring cups

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the black beans, diced mango, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Assemble Bowls: In each serving bowl, place a scoop of rice and top it with the fruit and bean mixture.
  4. Add Toppings: Let kids customize their bowls with optional toppings like shredded cheese, avocado, or tortilla chips.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this colorful and tasty meal together!

**Breakfast Taco Bowl**

If you’re looking for a simple and tasty breakfast option that even the kids will love, the Breakfast Taco Bowl is a winner. Combining fluffy scrambled eggs, beans, and fresh toppings, it’s a flavorful twist that makes mornings more fun.

This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. Each bowl is customizable, allowing your little ones to pick their favorite toppings, creating a breakfast they’ll actually want to eat!

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup cooked black beans
  • 1 cup corn tortillas, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions

  1. Scramble the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil, and pour in the eggs. Stir gently until cooked through.
  2. Warm the Tortillas: In the same skillet, add the tortilla pieces and cook for a couple of minutes until golden and crispy.
  3. Assemble the Bowl: In each bowl, layer the crispy tortilla pieces, followed by the scrambled eggs and black beans. Top with shredded cheese, avocado slices, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
  4. Serve: Enjoy immediately while warm, letting everyone customize their bowl to their liking!