Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet: The Ultimate One Pot Taco Rice Meal 🌮🍚🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that combines the hearty goodness of rice with bold Mexican flavors, then the Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is your perfect solution. This easy one pan casserole brings the best of Mexican taco rice to your table in just minutes. Whether you’re craving a last minute ground beef dinner, a simple rice and ground beef recipe, or a flavorful lunch with ground beef, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Cheesy Fiesta Taco Rice that everyone will love!
2. Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or your preferred meat
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
3. How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Preparation and Cooking Steps
1. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Rice and Seasonings
Stir in the rice, taco seasoning, and diced tomatoes (including juice). Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
3. Simmer Until Rice Is Tender
Cover the skillet with a lid, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender. Check occasionally to prevent burning and add more broth if needed.
4. Add Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, cheesy layer. Garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.
4. Storage Tips for Cheesy Fiesta Taco Rice
Store any leftover Mexican taco rice dinner in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture. For a make-ahead meal, prepare the skillet and refrigerate, then finish with cheese just before serving.
5. Serving Suggestions for Mexican Skillet Dinner
This one pan taco rice pairs beautifully with a side of fresh salad, corn tortillas, or tortilla chips for added crunch. Enjoy this quick and easy taco rice as a satisfying lunch with ground beef or a family-friendly dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and extras for a personalized touch!
6. Variations for Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
- Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef for a healthier option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra nutrition.
- Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
7. Frequently Asked Questions about Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Mexican skillet dinner in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat thoroughly before serving. For best results, add the cheese toppings fresh when reheating.
Q: Is Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Just ensure that your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free. This makes a perfect gluten-free meal for those with sensitivities.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce to the skillet for an extra kick of heat.
8. Final Thoughts on Cheesy Fiesta Taco Rice
The Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make one pot taco rice that combines the flavors of Mexico with the convenience of a one pan casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish provides a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Experiment with different toppings and ingredients to make it your own, and enjoy a delicious Mexican skillet dinner that everyone will ask for again and again!
9. Conclusion
In summary, the Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet offers an unbeatable combination of savory ground beef, flavorful spices, and melted cheese in a single pan. Its quick preparation, customizable options, and satisfying taste make it one of the best rice and ground beef recipes simple for any weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Try this Mexican skillet dinner today and enjoy a flavorful, fuss-free meal that the whole family will love!
Print
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Veganuary, Gluten-Free (with gluten-free broth and seasoning)
Description
Enjoy a quick, flavorful, and cheesy Mexican-inspired meal with our Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet. This one-pan taco rice dinner combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and melted cheese for a satisfying and easy-to-make family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or your preferred meat
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in rice, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with juice), and broth. Mix well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.
- Garnish with optional toppings like sour cream, cilantro, or jalapeños before serving.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 460 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
