Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
A comforting and flavorful one-skillet dish that combines seasoned ground beef, rice, and gooey melted cheese with a taco-inspired twist. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this dish is easy to make and packed with bold flavors.
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping ingredients)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener (if using canned ingredients)
Ingredients
- For the Dish:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey for a leaner option
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced, optional
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade equivalent
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or brown rice for a healthier option
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
- Optional: Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
- Optional: Sour cream or guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef :
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables :
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Seasonings and Rice :
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the seasoning mixture. Cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Simmer with Liquids :
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes (or 35–40 minutes if using brown rice), or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the Cheese :
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish and Serve :
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm with sour cream or guacamole on the side.
Notes
Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Use gluten-free taco seasoning and rice for a gluten-free option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Double the recipe if serving a larger crowd.
Use gluten-free taco seasoning and rice for a gluten-free option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Double the recipe if serving a larger crowd.