Description
This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a flavorful and hearty one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring seasoned ground beef, tender rice cooked in a rich tomato and beef broth base, and topped with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, this easy Mexican-inspired dish combines convenience and deliciousness in every bite. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a family-friendly dinner that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
Skillet Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being oily.
- Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning packet (or homemade seasoning), salt, and black pepper until the beef is evenly coated and fragrant.
- Add Rice and Liquids: To the seasoned beef, add the uncooked long grain white rice, beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and frozen corn. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Cheese Layer: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired, then serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, flavorful taco rice skillet.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer some extra heat.
- This dish reheats well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners.
