When you’re craving a meal that combines the savory flavors of a taco with the comforting allure of a cheesy rice dish, look no further than the Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser, but also a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 diced tomato
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet – Step By Step
Step 1:
Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Continue to cook the beef until it is nicely browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2:
Combine the Ingredients
Add the taco seasoning, rice, beef broth, black beans, tomatoes, and corn to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir everything together so the rice is evenly coated with the seasoning and the ingredients are well-mixed. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3:
Cheese Galore
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the rice mixture. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt over low heat for approximately 3–5 minutes. You can even broil it for a minute or two if you prefer a bubbly, slightly crispy cheese topping. Just make sure to monitor closely to prevent burning!
Step 4:
Final Touches and Serve
Once the cheese is melted and deliciously creamy, remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
This delectable dish can be served with a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. For those hosting guests, consider setting out bowls of jalapeños or hot sauce for a customizable heat level.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
The key to a flavorful Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is allowing the rice to thoroughly cook and absorb all the savory liquids. Be cautious with salt, as the taco seasoning and broth already contain it. For extra nutrition, consider adding bell peppers or zucchini. Leftovers reheat well, making them perfect for lunch the next day.
Packed with Protein: High-Protein Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
To transform this meal into a high-protein powerhouse, look no further. Swap regular rice for quinoa—a super grain high in protein and fiber. Add some black lentils or double the beef to further amp up the protein content. This version not only satisfies but also fuels busy, active days.
Incorporating more protein takes this dish from simple to sensational. With dietary trends emphasizing protein for muscle maintenance and energy, this recipe will align perfectly with your goals.
Low Carb Love: Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet without the Carbs
For those keeping carbs at bay, consider substituting the rice with cauliflower rice. This swap not only slashes carbs but maintains the dish’s fluffiness and flavor. Another fabulous hack is using spiralized zucchini as a rice replacement.
Focusing on low-carb ingredients keeps this meal light yet hearty. It fits snugly into keto or other low-carb lifestyles without sacrificing taste. Enjoy all the warmth and satisfaction of a taco rice skillet, minus the carbs!
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes beautifully, making for a convenient and delicious meal solution on busy days.
FAQs
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans for a delicious vegetarian version.
- What can I use if I don’t have taco seasoning? A mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder works well as a homemade taco seasoning.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives that blend well with the other ingredients.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? As long as your taco seasoning and broth are gluten-free, this dish is perfect for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts: Share the Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Joy!
This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is the embodiment of comfort and flavor in one dish. Ideal for families, gatherings, or solo dining, it appeals to all ages and preferences. We invite you to try this recipe, share it with friends, or drop a comment about your experience. Your feedback helps us serve you better recipes that bring joy to your table!
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- rice
- can black beans
- corn kernels
- taco seasoning
- shredded cheese
- beef broth
- diced tomato
- onion
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Brown the ground beef in olive oil over medium heat, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning, rice, beef broth, black beans, tomato, and corn. Stir well and bring to a boil then simmer until rice is cooked.
- Top with shredded cheese, cover, and allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like cilantro, sour cream, or lime wedges.