There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy taco rice skillet. It brings back memories of cozy family dinners, filled with laughter and that irresistible scent of spices wafting through the kitchen. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a scrumptious meal that pleases both kids and adults alike.
What makes this cheesy taco rice skillet so special is its combination of flavors and textures. You get the savory richness from the ground beef, the satisfying chew of rice, and a melty blanket of cheese on top. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Why you’ll love cheesy taco rice skillet
- Quick prep and cleanup with just one skillet.
- Layers of savory flavors make every bite exciting.
- Budget-friendly, using common pantry ingredients.
- Easily customizable for different tastes.
- Great for leftovers or meal prep.
What ingredients do I need for cheesy taco rice skillet?
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Taco seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
- Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, avocado
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Ground beef: Can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Rice: Use brown rice for additional fiber; just adjust the cooking time.
- Cheese: Try pepper jack for a spicier kick.
- Taco seasoning: Homemade blends are an option if you want to control the spice level.
How do I make cheesy taco rice skillet step-by-step?
To prepare the cheesy taco rice skillet, you’ll start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet. Then, add rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth, bringing it all to a simmer. After covering it to cook until the rice is tender, you’ll layer it with cheese and let it melt before serving.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the skillet.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle cheese on top, and cover until melted.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sauté onions and garlic with the beef before adding the other ingredients.
Visual doneness cues: The liquid should be mostly absorbed, and the rice should be tender and fluffy.
How should I serve it?
Serve your cheesy taco rice skillet in bowls, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. For added freshness, slice up some avocado on the side. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or tortilla chips for crunch.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. For longer storage, it can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw before reheating.
How do I fix common issues?
If your taco rice is too dry, add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating. For blandness, a sprinkle of extra taco seasoning or hot sauce can revitalize the flavors. If you find it too soggy, cook it longer uncovered over low heat to evaporate excess moisture.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to customize your cheesy taco rice skillet! Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. You could also switch up the proteins by using shredded rotisserie chicken or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
What else can I add to this dish?
Consider adding sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or even jalapeños for a spice boost.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Definitely! You can omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep the creaminess.
How do I keep leftovers from drying out?
Store them in an airtight container and check for moisture when reheating; add a little broth if needed.
This cheesy taco rice skillet is the ultimate comfort food that keeps on giving, whether for a quick family meal or a laid-back get-together. Enjoy!
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the skillet.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the skillet and cook until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle cheese on top, and cover until melted.
- Serve hot with optional toppings.