Description
Cheesy Taco Rice is a hearty, flavor-packed one-pan meal that brings together the bold taste of taco-seasoned ground beef, tender rice, melty cheese, and a mix of colorful veggies. It’s a comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether served as a main course or as a filling for burritos or stuffed peppers, this cheesy, savory rice dish is a family favorite that never disappoints.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
2 cups beef broth or water
1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 cup canned corn, drained
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2️⃣ Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning and mix well to coat the meat evenly.
3️⃣ Add the uncooked rice to the skillet along with the beef broth, diced tomatoes, corn, and black beans. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4️⃣ Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5️⃣ Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to allow the cheese to melt. Alternatively, place it under the broiler for a few minutes to get a bubbly, golden top.
6️⃣ Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne. Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully, making this a great meal prep option. This dish is also a great base for toppings like sour cream, avocado, or hot sauce.