Description
Cheesy Taco Rice is a delicious, flavorful dish packed with seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together quickly, making it the perfect family meal. You can customize it with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound 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 and 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 the 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:
Add the minced garlic and taco seasoning packet to the cooked beef and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to toast the spices. -
Add Liquids and Rice:
Stir in the beef broth, Rotel, and tomato paste until combined. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in 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 cook 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 fully 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 garlic cloves that have been minced or pressed. Alternatively, you can use chopped garlic from a jar or garlic paste. If you prefer garlic powder, use 1 teaspoon.
- Spicy or Mild: For a spicier version, use spicy Rotel, Pepper Jack cheese, and garnish with sliced jalapeños. To keep it mild, use mild Rotel, mild taco seasoning, and a cheese such as Colby Jack.
- Pan Size: Make sure you use a large skillet with high sides and a lid to accommodate the rice and prevent spillage.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Mexican-Inspired
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex