This Recipe is part of our Picky Eater Reset

Why It’s Included

Taco bowls are a great first meal for The Picky Eater Reset System because they allow children to stay in control while gently introducing new foods. Rather than hiding ingredients or forcing bites, this meal encourages exploration by letting each family member build their own bowl.

The familiar flavors of taco-seasoned meat, rice, and cheese create a safe foundation, while black beans, pico de gallo, and avocado serve as optional “stretch foods” that children can explore at their own pace.

Servings 4

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients:

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Taco Meat

•   1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
•   1 tbsp olive oil
•   1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
•   1/4 cup water

 

Rice

•   1 cup uncooked white rice
•   2 cups water
•   1/2 tsp salt

 

Safe Toppings

•   1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
•   1 cup crushed tortilla chips

 

Stretch Foods

•   1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
•   1 cup pico de Gallo
•   1 avocado (diced)

Ingredients are subject to availability at local stores. Unavailable items will be automatically substituted at best-effort.

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Add the rice, water, and salt to a medium pot. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Cook for 18 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Taco Meat

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Once warm, add the ground beef or turkey. Use a spatula to break the meat into small pieces. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add the water. Stir until evenly combined. Reduce heat to low and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Stretch Foods

Drain and rinse the black beans under cold water. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30-60 seconds if desired. Dice the avocado into small cubes. Place the pico de gallo into a serving bowl. Arrange all toppings separately.

Step 4: Create a Taco Bowl Bar

Place the following ingredients on the table: Rice, Taco meat, Cheese, Tortilla chips, Black beans, Pico de Gallo, Avocado Allow everyone to build their own bowl.

Parent Coaching Corner

A common mistake is mixing the stretch foods into the bowl before serving. Instead, serve everything separately.

Children are much more likely to interact with new foods when they can see exactly what they are and choose whether or not to include them.

Remember: The goal tonight is not to get your child to love avocado. The goal is simply to make avocado feel less unfamiliar.