Description
Cheesy Taco Rice is a flavorful, one-pan meal packed with seasoned ground beef, savory rice, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for taco night or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is a family favorite with just the right balance of savory, spicy, and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 1/4 cups beef broth
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, dry and uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheese (any variety)
Instructions
- Brown Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, ground beef, and diced onion. Cook and crumble the beef until it’s no longer pink and the onions are translucent (about 8-10 minutes). Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning packet. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add Liquids and Rice: Stir in the beef broth, Rotel, and tomato paste until well combined. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice and bring the mixture back to a boil.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low or low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the rice and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted.
- Serve: Serve with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and chopped fresh cilantro.
Notes
- Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh minced garlic, but you can substitute with chopped garlic from a jar, garlic paste, or garlic powder (use 1 teaspoon).
- Spicy or Mild: For a spicier version, use spicy Rotel, Pepper Jack cheese, and garnish with sliced jalapeños. For a milder version, use mild Rotel tomatoes, mild taco seasoning, and a cheese like Colby Jack.
- Pan Size: Use a large skillet with high sides and a lid to accommodate the ingredients and ensure proper cooking.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American