What is in a barbacoa bowl?

A traditional barbacoa bowl includes slow-cooked shredded beef, rice (white or brown), black beans, corn, diced tomato, avocado, pico de gallo, and fresh cilantro. Optional toppings such as sour cream, jalapeños, radishes, or chipotle sauce can be added for extra flavor. It's a customizable, protein-rich meal that delivers layered textures and bold, smoky taste.

What’s in a barbacoa burrito?

A barbacoa burrito wraps the same essential ingredients — barbacoa beef, rice, beans, and toppings — in a large flour tortilla. It may also include extras like cheese, lettuce, and salsa. While the burrito offers portability, the bowl version skips the wrap for a lighter, utensil-friendly option that’s easier to portion and customize.

What do I need for barbacoa?

To make barbacoa, you'll need a marbled beef cut like chuck roast, seasoning (cumin, oregano, chipotle, garlic), acid (lime juice or vinegar), and a method for slow cooking — such as a slow cooker, oven, or Instant Pot. The result is tender, juicy beef infused with bold flavor, perfect for bowls, tacos, or salads.

What does a burrito bowl include?

A burrito bowl usually includes a base of rice or grains, a protein (like barbacoa beef, chicken, or tofu), beans, vegetables, and fresh toppings such as avocado, pico de gallo, or cheese. It’s designed to deliver the flavors of a burrito in a deconstructed, easy-to-eat bowl format.

Barbacoa Burrito Bowl: 6 Steps to a Powerful, Flavorful Bowl

Description

Barbacoa Burrito Bowl recipe delivers bold flavor with tender beef, rice, and fresh toppings. Easy, satisfying, and perfect for any meal.

Ingredients

3/4 cup cooked white or brown rice
1/2 cup shredded slow-cooked beef (boneless)
1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup cooked corn kernels
1 Roma tomato, diced
1/4 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons fresh pico de gallo
1/2 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Optional toppings: chipotle sauce, sliced jalapeños, sliced radishes, sour cream

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Instructions

Warm the shredded beef and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
In a large bowl, layer the rice, shredded beef, black beans, corn, tomato, avocado, and pico de gallo.
Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top.
Add your choice of optional toppings like chipotle sauce, jalapeños, radishes, and a dollop of sour cream.
Serve immediately and enjoy a well-balanced, hearty meal.