Scrambled Eggs, Cheese, and Avocado Tortilla Bowl Recipe
September 16, 2025
Instant Pot® Cheesy Mexican Lentils and Rice Recipe
Instant Pot cheesy Mexican lentils and rice work wonderfully as a satisfying side dish but can also be served as a hearty main course for complete, nutritious meals. This versatile preparation combines protein-rich lentils with rice and cheese for balanced nutrition while the Instant Pot ensures consistent results with minimal effort. The dish adapts beautifully to different meal roles while providing complete protein and satisfying flavors.
This dish works wonderfully as a side but can also be served as a hearty main course or as a filling for taco bowls! For a fun twist, try mashing it slightly with a spoon to create a flavorful ‘bean dip’ and pair it with tortilla chips.
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Additional Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
45 mins
Servings:
6
Cook Mode (Keep screen awake)
Ingredients
3 cups chicken broth
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
¾ cup brown lentils
¾ cup brown rice
1 small onion, chopped
2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon taco seasoning
1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste
Directions
Combine chicken broth, tomatoes, lentils, rice, onion, jalapeños, garlic, taco seasoning, oregano, and cumin in a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®).
Close and lock the lid. Select HIGH pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Set the timer for 8 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
Release pressure using the natural-release method according to the manufacturer’s instructions, about 10 minutes.
Open the lid and stir in 1/2 of the Mexican cheese blend. Sprinkle remaining cheese over top. Cover and let sit for 4 minutes. Garnish with cilantro.
Cook’s Note:
Use green lentils, if you prefer.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| 339 | Calories |
| 12g | Fat |
| 40g | Carbs |
| 18g | Protein |
Show Full Nutrition Label Hide Full Nutrition Label
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings Per Recipe 6 | |
| Calories 339 | |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Total Fat 12g | 15% |
| Saturated Fat 8g | 41% |
| Cholesterol 36mg | 12% |
| Sodium 1109mg | 48% |
| Total Carbohydrate 40g | 14% |
| Dietary Fiber 9g | 34% |
| Total Sugars 2g | |
| Protein 18g | 35% |
| Vitamin C 7mg | 8% |
| Calcium 43mg | 3% |
| Iron 3mg | 16% |
| Potassium 391mg | 8% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.
