How I Turned Convenience Ingredients Into a Beef Barbacoa Bowl Worth Craving

 

Make a hearty, flavorful Beef Barbacoa Bowl with simple convenience ingredients. Easy, wholesome, and perfect for busy nights—no real cooking required.

How I Turned Convenience Ingredients Into a Beef Barbacoa Bowl Worth Craving

Starting a new position at work has been exciting… and exhausting. By the time I'm through for the day, my brain is done and my energy is already spent. But the question still stands: How do you get a hearty, healthy, satisfying meal on the table—one flavorful enough to keep a hungry husband happy—without actually cooking?

For tonight, the answer leaned toward our love of Mexican flavors. They’re bold, comforting, and they turn even the simplest “heat and go” ingredients into something that tastes intentional. And thankfully, grocery stores are filled with convenience items that are genuinely wholesome—things that help you avoid the fast-food trap without asking for more time or effort than you’ve got left at the end of the day.

That’s exactly how this Beef Barbacoa Bowl came to life. The base of this bowl calls for rice—nothing fancy. I used leftover rice from a previous meal, but you can easily grab pre-cooked rice from the grocery store or make your own if you prefer. From there, everything layers together effortlessly: tender, richly seasoned purchased barbacoa, warm beans, smoky fire-roasted corn, melty cheese, bright salsa, and juicy cherry tomatoes.

It’s a bowl that feels layered, vibrant, and deeply satisfying. The kind of meal where you take that first bite, pause, and think, Oh wow—this is good. And the best part? You can pull it together in minutes. No measuring. No chopping. No fuss. Just a few well-chosen grocery store shortcuts transforming into a bowl worth craving.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Beef Barbacoa – The star of the bowl; tender, flavorful, and ready-made for convenience. I chose the Del Real brand.

• Rice – Acts as the hearty base; leftover, pre-cooked, or freshly made all work.

• Pinto Beans – Creamy and protein-packed, they balance the flavors in every bite.

• Fire-Roasted Corn – Adds a smoky-sweet pop and some texture. I chose a frozen brand.

• Salsa – Brings brightness, acidity, and a little spice. Choose your favorite level of heat.

• Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Cotija add richness and melty goodness.

• Cherry Tomatoes – Fresh, juicy, and slightly tangy to lighten the bowl.

• Optional Toppings – Avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, sour cream, or hot sauce to customize. I crunched up a few tortilla chips.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Beef Barbacoa: Can swap for rotisserie chicken, carnitas, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

• Rice: Try brown or Mexican rice, or go green with salad greens as a base, for a lighter option.

• Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas work just as well.

Variations

• Spicy Tex-Mex: Add pickled jalapeños, chipotle salsa, and a squeeze of lime for heat.

• Southwest Veggie: Swap barbacoa for roasted sweet potatoes and black beans; keep the corn, cheese, and salsa.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

• Use leftover rice when possible—saves time and reduces waste.

• Heat convenience ingredients gently; overcooking can dry out beans or corn.

• Assemble bowls just before serving for the freshest textures.

• Section ingredients for visual appeal—rice first, the place beans, corn, barbacoa and tomatoes around the rice, then add toppings.

• Store components separately if prepping ahead to keep flavors bright and textures intact.

       Set the Mood       

Want to make this dinner feel extra special? Here’s how to set the mood with just a few easy touches.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl (Weeknight-Style)

 

This Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl is your go-to weeknight dinner — full of warm spices, crisp veggies, and creamy tahini yogurt sauce over fluffy basmati rice. All the flavor of shawarma, made easy at home in under 30 minutes.

Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl (Weeknight-Style)

I love it when meals are both comforting and full of life — something that wakes up your taste buds without requiring hours in the kitchen.  That’s where this Quick & Cozy Chicken Shawarma Bowl comes in.

It’s inspired by the bold, aromatic flavors of traditional Middle Eastern shawarma but reimagined for the modern weeknight. No rotisserie spit, no takeout — just a skillet, a handful of pantry staples, and layers of texture and color that make dinner feel a little special.

Think tender, spiced chicken nestled on fluffy basmati rice, topped with a lemony cucumber-tomato salad and finished with a cool, garlicky tahini-yogurt drizzle. It’s the kind of bowl that’s simple enough for Tuesday, yet flavorful enough to crave all week long.

If you’re craving something fresh, hearty, and fall-appropriate but still quick enough for a weeknight, this bowl checks every box.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Basmati Rice – The perfect fluffy base that soaks up all the shawarma flavors.

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless, and quick-cooking — ideal for busy nights.

• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully.

• Shawarma Seasoning – The heart of this dish — a fragrant blend of warm spices like cumin, paprika, turmeric, and garlic.

• Pita or Naan Flatbreads – Toasted until golden for dipping, scooping, or soaking up that creamy sauce.

• Red Onion – Thinly sliced and quick-pickled for a tangy crunch that balances the savory chicken.

• White Wine Vinegar & Honey – The duo behind your easy pickled onions — sweet, sharp, and addictive.

• English Cucumber – Brings a crisp, refreshing bite to each spoonful.

• Grape Tomatoes – Juicy pops of color and flavor that brighten the whole bowl.

• Fresh Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and ties everything together with a citrusy lift.

• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of freshness to finish each bowl.

• Tahini – The nutty base of the creamy sauce that gives that signature Middle Eastern flavor.

• Plain Greek Yogurt – Adds body and cool creaminess to the tahini sauce.

• Garlic – Just enough to give the sauce a punch of flavor.

• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning that enhances every layer.

Substitutions & Variations

Make it your own! This bowl is endlessly flexible — swap ingredients based on what you have or what’s in season.

• Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or swap in shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

• Base: Substitute quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for basmati.

• Greens: Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach under the rice for a light, fresh layer.

• Veggies: Use chopped bell peppers, roasted sweet potatoes, or fall squash for a heartier variation.

• Sauce Swap: Replace tahini with hummus or drizzle with garlic sauce if you prefer.

• Flatbread: Use whole wheat pita, lavash, or skip the bread entirely for a gluten-free option.

Kitchen Notes & Tips

Marinate ahead: If you have time, toss the chicken with olive oil and seasoning up to 4 hours in advance for deeper flavor.

• Pickle magic: The quick-pickled onions bring balance and brightness — don’t skip them!

• Serve warm or cold: The leftovers make an excellent chilled lunch bowl the next day.

• Double the sauce: Trust me — you’ll want extra for dipping pita or drizzling over veggies.

• Shortcuts welcome: Pre-cooked rice or a store-bought shawarma spice blend keeps prep quick.

Equipment You May Need

Shawarma Seasoning - This is the one that I use and I love the flavor!

Cast Iron Skillet - perfect for cooking chicken.  I had this skillet for over 10 years and it's a workhorse in my kitchen.  I just love it!

Instant Pot (for cooking rice) - I cook all my rice in my Instant Pot.  It comes out perfect every time.  I love this hands off method.

Stoneware Bowls - I love these bowls for pastas, stir frys, and our many "chicken bowl" foods.

Set The Mood

Bring a little Mediterranean warmth into your kitchen with this cozy fall dinner setup — simple touches that make it feel special without any fuss.

One-Pot Greek Chicken & Lemon Rice – Fresh, Flavorful, and Ready in 30 Minutes

 

Whip up this One-Pot Greek Chicken & Lemon Rice in just 30 minutes! Juicy chicken, zesty lemon, fresh spinach & creamy feta—an easy fall dinner favorite.

One-Pot Greek Chicken & Lemon Rice – Fresh, Flavorful, and Ready in 30 Minutes

The days are growing shorter and there is a definite change in the weather which makes me crave meals that are warm, comforting, and—let’s be honest—quick to get on the table. That’s where this One-Pot Greek Chicken & Lemon Rice comes in. It’s everything you want in an easy fall dinner: juicy, golden seared chicken, tender spinach, fluffy rice, and a burst of bright lemon all mingling together in one skillet. And to top it all off? A crumble of creamy feta that melts slightly into the dish, adding that irresistible salty tang.

What makes this recipe truly special is that it delivers comfort without the heaviness. Instead of a rich stew or casserole, this dish leans into Mediterranean freshness with oregano, garlic, and a sunny squeeze of citrus. The best part—it uses cooked leftover rice so it’s on the table in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner for those don't wanna cook days. Serve it with warm pita bread or a simple cucumber salad, and you’ve got a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both nourishing and indulgent.

If you’re on the hunt for new fall dinner ideas that are easy, wholesome, and absolutely full of flavor, this one-pot wonder is about to earn a spot in your regular rotation. Simple enough for weeknights yet vibrant enough to impress guests, it’s a dish that brings comfort and brightness to the cooler season.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients Do I Need?

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together:

• Chicken – Juicy boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for fast cooking.
• Olive Oil – The base of Mediterranean cooking; adds richness and depth.
• Spices & Herbs – Oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes for that warm, herby kick.
• Tomatoes – Grape tomatoes that soften into sweet, juicy bursts of flavor.
• Garlic – Because no comforting skillet meal is complete without it.
• Spinach – Fresh greens that wilt perfectly into the warm rice.
• Basmati Rice – Fluffy, aromatic rice that soaks up all the lemony goodness.
• Garbanzo Beans – Nutty and hearty, they add protein and texture.
• Lemon Juice – The star ingredient that brightens and balances everything.
• Feta Cheese – Creamy, tangy, and the finishing touch that ties the dish together.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own—swap ingredients, add extra veggies, or adjust flavors to suit your taste without losing the Mediterranean charm.

• Protein Swap: Try chicken thighs for extra juiciness or swap in shrimp for a lighter twist.

• Grain Options: Use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb variation.

• Greens: Kale, chard, or arugula can step in for spinach.

• Beans: White beans or lentils work in place of garbanzos.

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free feta or omit cheese entirely and drizzle with tahini for creaminess.

• Extra Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted eggplant make delicious add-ins.

Kitchen Notes and Tips

A few helpful tips and tricks will ensure your one-pot Greek chicken and lemon rice turns out perfectly every time—flavorful, tender, and hassle-free.

• Use Day-Old Rice: Cooled, cooked rice works best for texture—less sticky and clumpy.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: Sear in batches if needed to get that golden edge.

• Adjust Lemon to Taste: Add more for a brighter punch or less if you prefer it subtle.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days—great for lunches.

• One-Skillet Wonder: Less mess, less cleanup, maximum flavor.

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Cheesy Turkey Enchilada Rice Skillet – A One-Pan Wonder

This Cheesy Turkey Enchilada Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder packed with bold enchilada flavor, tender ground turkey, beans, corn, and melty cheese. A quick and easy weeknight dinner the whole family will love!

 

Cheesy Turkey Enchilada Rice Skillet – A One-Pan Wonder

If there's one thing I’ve learned to treasure in the middle of a busy week, it’s the magic of a good one-pot meal. Fewer dishes, easy prep, and something hearty bubbling away on the stove—it’s the trifecta of kitchen happiness. This Cheesy Turkey Enchilada Rice Skillet checks every box: it’s quick to make, easy to clean up, and packed with bold, family-approved flavor. Even the pickiest eaters will light up when they see this skillet coming to the table, melty cheese and all.

We love our Latin-inspired flavors around here—those smoky spices, vibrant green chiles, and saucy, satisfying bites just feel like comfort food with a little kick. And when summer heat rolls in, I’m all about meals that keep the oven off. This skillet comes together right on the stovetop in about 30 minutes, which means no sweating over a hot oven and no long waits for dinner to be ready.

Loaded with lean ground turkey, tender rice, pinto beans, corn, and plenty of enchilada sauce, this dish delivers the same cozy satisfaction of a pan of baked enchiladas—without all the rolling and layering. Just one skillet, one stir, and one truly delicious dinner.

Your Easy Enchilada Skillet Checklist

Produce

• Yellow or white onion
• Fresh cilantro

Meat

• Ground turkey

Canned Goods

• Diced tomatoes
• Pinto beans
• Corn (fresh or frozen if preferred)
• Chopped green chiles
• Red enchilada sauce
• Low-sodium chicken broth

Grains

• White rice

Dairy

• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Spices & Pantry

• Olive oil
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Kosher salt

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? No worries—this recipe is super flexible! Here are some easy ingredient swaps to help make it work with what’s already in your kitchen:

• Ground turkey → Use ground chicken, lean ground beef, or even plant-based crumbles

• White rice → Try brown rice (increase simmer time), jasmine rice, or even cooked quinoa

• Pinto beans → Swap with black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas

• Monterey Jack cheese → Use shredded cheddar, a Mexican blend, or pepper jack for extra heat

• Chicken broth → Sub in vegetable broth or even water in a pinch

• Red enchilada sauce → Use green enchilada sauce 

• Canned corn → Fresh or frozen corn kernels work great too

Variations

Want to switch things up? This one-pan wonder is easy to customize. Here are a few tasty twists to make it your own:

• Make it vegetarian – Skip the turkey and add extra beans or a can of drained lentils for a protein-packed, meatless version.

• Spice it up – Add diced jalapeños with the onion or use hot enchilada sauce for a bolder kick.

• Low-carb option – Swap the rice for riced cauliflower (just reduce the broth and simmer time).

• Southwest twist – Add a handful of diced bell peppers or zucchini with the onion for extra veggies.

• Taco-style – Spoon leftovers into taco shells or tortillas for a next-day remix!

Kitchen Tips and Notes

A few simple tricks can make this one-pan meal even easier and more delicious:

• Toast the rice – Don’t skip this step! Lightly toasting the rice before adding the liquids adds a subtle nutty flavor and helps it hold its texture as it cooks.

• Use a large, deep skillet – A 12-inch deep sauté pan or nonstick skillet works best to keep everything contained without bubbling over.

• Let it rest before serving – After the cheese melts, let the skillet sit off the heat for 3–5 minutes. This helps the rice firm up and makes scooping easier.

• Taste and season as you go – Enchilada sauces vary in saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt at the end.

• Frozen corn is a great shortcut – No need to thaw—just toss it in frozen!

• Add toppings at the table – Let everyone customize their plate with sour cream, avocado slices, lime wedges, or crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

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Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado – A Taste of Peru at Home

Bring bold Peruvian flavor to your table with this Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado! Tender beef, sautéed onions and tomatoes, and a kick of ají amarillo paste come together in this quick, crave-worthy stir-fry.

Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado – A Taste of Peru at Home

I’ve made more stir-fries than I can count—quick weeknight veggie tosses, saucy noodle wonders, sizzling skillet meals with every protein you can imagine. But this one? This Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado just might be the most exciting addition to my stir-fry repertoire yet. It’s not just about speed or simplicity (though it checks both boxes), it’s about flavor—rich, bold, and unmistakably Peruvian.

Peruvian food has always held a special place in my heart, but for the longest time, I hesitated to try it at home. It felt like a cuisine best left to restaurants—complex, layered, mysterious. But as it turns out, the magic of Lomo Saltado is totally within reach. A few pantry staples, a spoonful of ají amarillo paste for that signature heat, and suddenly my kitchen smelled like a Lima street corner at dinnertime.

The first time I made it, I realized just how approachable—and addictive—it really is. Juicy strips of beef seared to perfection, sweet onions and tomatoes tossed in a soy-vinegar glaze, and that glorious finishing touch: golden fries served right on top, with steamed rice to catch every drop of the sauce. It’s fusion comfort food at its finest—and now, a regular on my dinner rotation.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Meat 

• Sirloin steak or beef tenderloin

Produce

• Red onion

• Tomatoes (or Roma tomatoes)

• Garlic

• Potatoes (for fries) (optional if not using frozen)

International/Latin Foods

• Ají amarillo paste

Spices & Seasonings

• Ground cumin

• Salt

• Black pepper

Oils & Vinegars

• Vegetable oil

• Red wine vinegar (or white vinegar)

Baking

• Cornstarch

Asian/Global Sauces

• Soy sauce

Broth & Canned Goods

• Beef broth (or substitute with water)

Frozen Foods (optional shortcut)

• Frozen French fries

Grains & Rice

• White rice

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

Don’t have every ingredient on hand? No worries—here are some easy swaps to keep the flavor going strong:

• Beef: Use chicken thighs, pork loin, or even tofu for a different protein twist.

• Red wine vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar works in a pinch.

• Beef broth: Chicken broth, veggie broth, or even water with a splash of soy sauce can do the job.

• Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes or canned whole tomatoes (drained and roughly chopped) are good stand-ins.

• French fries: Use frozen fries for ease, or try roasted potato wedges 

Recipe Variations

Looking to mix things up? These Lomo Saltado twists keep the essence of the dish while offering fresh spins:

• Chicken Saltado: Swap the beef for boneless chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter take that still packs plenty of flavor.

• Vegetarian Saltado: Use mushrooms (like portobello or oyster), extra-firm tofu, or even seitan as your protein base. Add extra veggies like zucchini or green beans for bulk.

• Seafood Saltado: Try shrimp or scallops for a coastal-inspired twist—just be sure to cook them quickly to avoid overcooking.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• High Heat = Great Sear: Lomo Saltado is all about that quick, hot stir-fry. Use a wok or large skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan—cook the beef in batches to get that golden sear without steaming it.

• Don’t Overcook the Tomatoes: Add the tomatoes near the end and cook just until they soften slightly—they should help form a light sauce, not become mushy.

• Shortcut with Frozen Fries: No shame in skipping the homemade potatoes—frozen fries baked or air-fried until crisp are a great time-saver.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the stir-fry rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle and juices redistribute.

• Double the Batch: Lomo Saltado reheats well—make extra for lunch the next day. Just keep rice and fries separate so they don’t get soggy.

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🍽️ Your Turn!

Ready to bring the bold flavors of Peru into your kitchen? Give this Savory & Spicy Lomo Saltado a try and let me know how it turns out! Share your photos, tips, or any tasty twists you make—I’d love to hear your take on this classic. Don’t forget to tag me @SliceofSouthern if you post it on Instagram!