This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a quick one-pan dinner loaded with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, black beans, sweet corn, tomatoes, and plenty of melted cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy family meal that’s packed with bold Tex-Mex flavor.
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles.
- Drain any excess grease.
- Add the onion and bell pepper and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the taco seasoning and mix well.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, black beans, and corn.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked rice and stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and avocado slices before serving.
Notes
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Use leftover rice to save time.
- Drain the beef well if it releases a lot of grease.
- Stir gently after adding the rice to keep it fluffy.
- Cover the skillet while the cheese melts for the best results.
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Mix in diced zucchini or mushrooms.
- Replace white rice with brown rice.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
- Tortilla chips
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Pico de gallo
- Mexican street corn
- Simple green salad
Tips
- Cook the rice ahead of time for an even faster meal.
- Taste before adding extra salt since taco seasoning contains sodium.
- Add extra cheese if you like a cheesier skillet.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Reheat with a splash of broth if the rice becomes dry.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings
Serves: 4
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 610
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 33g
- Sodium: 890mg
FAQs
Can I make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the skillet up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes. Let the skillet cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use instant rice?
Absolutely. Prepare the instant rice separately according to the package directions, then stir it into the skillet.
What cheese works best?
A Mexican cheese blend is ideal, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby Jack are all great options.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or an extra can of black beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What toppings go well with this skillet?
Avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro, green onions, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and crushed tortilla chips all make excellent toppings.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a hearty one-pan dinner that’s loaded with seasoned beef, rice, beans, vegetables, and melted cheese. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.
