Easy Cheesy Beef Taco Rice Skillet: One Pot Meal
Prep an easy one pot meal with this quick dinner recipe for a Taco Rice Skillet. This easy recipe will be one the whole family can enjoy.
When it comes to weeknight dinners, convenience and flavor are key. Enter the Taco Rice Skillet: a hearty, one-pan meal that combines the zest of tacos with the comforting heartiness of rice.
Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes. Packed with bold spices, tender beef, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless Cooking, Maximum Flavor
The Taco Rice Skillet is perfect for busy nights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and one pan, you can have a wholesome and delicious dinner on the table in just 40 minutes. The bold flavors of taco seasoning combined with tender rice and melty cheese create a satisfying dish that feels indulgent without the hassle.
Customizable and Crowd-Pleasing
This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your family’s preferences. You can mix up the toppings, swap out ingredients, or adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether served as-is or with a side of crunchy tortilla chips, it’s a guaranteed hit that’s both kid-friendly and adult-approved.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Taco Rice Skillet and put a twist on taco night, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (homemade taco seasoning will work)
- 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- 10-ounce can Rotel (not drained)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend works well)
- Favorite Taco Toppings of choice: dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, fresh tomatoes,lime wedges, fresh cilantro, guacamole, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, pico de gallo, green onion, taco sauce, etc.
How to Make Taco Rice Skillet
This simple recipe comes together so fast. And the best part, in one pan!
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the pound of ground beef into the skillet and add the diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasoning and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
- Combine Liquids and Rice: Add the tomato sauce, Rotel (including its juices), beef broth, and rinsed rice. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the rice mixture. Cover again and let the cheese melt, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Add your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor.
Places to Use or Take This Recipe
- Family Dinners: Serve it as a comforting easy meal for a cozy night in.
- Potlucks: The one-pan preparation makes it easy to transport and serve at gatherings.
- Meal Prep: Divide leftovers into containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The taco flavors taste great as leftovers.
- Game Day: Pair it with tortilla chips for a crowd-pleasing dip-style meal during sports events.
Variations
- Protein Swaps: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: Stir in diced bell pepper, corn, or black beans to add extra nutrition and color.
- Spice Level: Use spicy Rotel or add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the taco seasoning for an extra kick.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a smoky gouda for unique flavor profiles.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Tacos or Burritos: Grab your favorite corn or flour tortillas and add the completed easy ground beef recipe to the tortilla. Roll it up and eat!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezing:
- Freeze the cooked beef taco rice skillet recipe in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make-Ahead:
- Prepare the cheesy taco skillet through the simmering step (before adding cheese). Cool, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop, then add cheese and toppings.
Common Questions About Taco Rice Skillet
Can I use instant minute rice?
Yes, but reduce the simmering time to match the cooking instructions for instant rice. Adjust the liquid if needed.
What can I use instead of Rotel?
If you don’t have Rotel, substitute it with a can of diced tomatoes and a small can of green chilies.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check the taco seasoning and beef broth to ensure they are gluten-free. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or additional veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Taco Rice Skillet
Ingredients
- 1- pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 ounce can tomato sauce
- 10 ounce can Rotel not drained
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup long grain white rice uncooked and rinsed
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- Toppings of choice: sour cream diced avocado, guacamole, cilantro, etc.
Instructions
- Crumble the ground beef into a large skillet and cook over medium heat along with the onion until the beef is browned. Drain off the fat, then add the minced garlic and taco seasoning; cook for 1 minute.
- Add the tomato sauce, Rotel beef broth, and rice; stir well.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer on medium-low heat for 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
- Top the rice with shredded cheese and replace the lid on the skillet until the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot with the toppings of your choice.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a solution for busy nights and a dish that brings people together. Its bold flavors, customizable options, and easy preparation make it a recipe you’ll return to time and again. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for the week, or sharing at a potluck, this dish delivers every time.
Ready to give it a try? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy the magic of a one-pan wonder. Don’t forget to share your creations and variations in the comments below!
More easy dinners to try:
- 30 Minute Chicken and Rice Soup
- How to Broil Hamburgers
- Cheeseburger Chowder
- Plantation Ham and Pinwheels
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Hi there!
I’m Emily, a mom and wife with a passion for crafting, celebrating holidays, and creating memorable moments. From Idaho to the world, The Benson Street is a treasure trove of easy, fun DIY projects, delightful printables, and delicious recipes. With over a decade of experience in blogging and a love for all things seasonal, I’m here to share my tips, ideas, and occasional mishaps. Join me in adding a dash of joy and creativity to every day! Read more…
