Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures! This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe combines savory seasoned meat, fluffy rice, and melty cheddar cheese all in one easy skillet. It’s the perfect mix of cheesy goodness and taco-inspired zest that makes for a satisfying meal any night of the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a fast favorite to whip up when you want something hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet vibrant ingredients come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one plays an important role in making this dish so irresistible, from the juicy ground beef to the creamy cheese topping.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the meat and veggies to golden perfection.
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey: The protein-packed base that soaks up all the delicious seasonings.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweet and savory depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a punch of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet): The magic spice blend that gives this skillet its iconic Tex-Mex flair.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the richness and adds a subtle tang.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Absorbs the flavors while staying light and fluffy.
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth: Keeps the rice tender and infuses savory notes.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection.
- ½ cup salsa or diced tomatoes: Adds fresh acidity and a burst of vibrant color.
- Chopped green onions, cilantro, sour cream, and avocado (optional garnishes): Bring freshness and creaminess for the ultimate finish.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat so your dish isn’t greasy. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic next, sautéing them for a couple of minutes until they soften and release their wonderful aroma. This forms the savory foundation of your dish.
Step 2: Season and Add Tomato Paste
Now stir in the taco seasoning and tomato paste, making sure every bit of meat is coated with those robust spices and rich tomato flavor. This step elevates the dish and gives it that unmistakable taco essence that makes the Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe so memorable.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir it around for about a minute. Toasting the rice just a bit before adding liquid enhances its texture and adds a slight nutty flavor, which makes every bite even more satisfying.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb all the flavorful liquid, becoming tender and infused with all those spicy, savory notes.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Salsa
Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is gone, remove the skillet from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and your salsa or diced tomatoes. Let the skillet sit uncovered for about 5 minutes so the cheese can melt into ooey-gooey perfection, binding everything together with creamy goodness.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To finish off your dish with a burst of freshness and creaminess, sprinkle chopped green onions and cilantro over the top. A dollop of sour cream adds a cooling contrast to the spicy meat and cheese, and slices of ripe avocado bring a buttery smoothness that’s simply irresistible. These garnishes not only look fantastic but also add layers of flavor and texture that elevate the whole experience.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish pairs wonderfully with simple side options. Try serving it alongside a crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, some warm tortillas for scooping, or even roasted vegetables. If you want to keep it light, a side of black beans or corn salad complements the Mexican-inspired flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your friends or family? Spoon the cheesy taco rice into individual mini cast iron skillets and top each with your garnishes for a fun, rustic presentation. You can also scoop it into taco shells for a layered taco rice bowl or serve it over a bed of crisp lettuce as a warm taco salad base. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled to room temperature before sealing it, so moisture doesn’t make the rice soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze this skillet meal for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving for the best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to warm evenly, and add extra cheese or fresh toppings to revive that just-cooked charm.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice will require more broth and a longer cooking time, usually about 40 to 45 minutes, to become tender. Adjust accordingly, and your dish will be just as tasty and hearty.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat alternative or add beans like black or pinto beans to boost protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a little heat, or a blend like Colby and mozzarella for extra melty creaminess.
How spicy is this Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe?
The heat level depends mainly on your taco seasoning and salsa choice. You can dial it up or down by selecting mild, medium, or hot seasoning blends, or add fresh jalapeños for extra kick.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! This one-skillet dish keeps well in the fridge and can be portioned out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just add fresh garnishes each time you serve to keep it vibrant and tasty.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a one-pan meal that delivers on taste, ease, and heartiness, and this Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe hits all those marks with flying colors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy, cheesy dinner, I can’t recommend this recipe enough. Give it a try soon — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Taco Rice is a flavorful one-skillet Mexican-inspired dish combining seasoned ground beef or turkey with rice, cheese, and fresh toppings like green onions, cilantro, sour cream, and avocado. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep, offering cheesy, savory Tex-Mex flavors in a single pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup salsa or diced tomatoes
Garnishes (Optional)
- Chopped green onions
- Cilantro
- Sour cream
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon for about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Add Seasoning and Tomato Paste: Stir in taco seasoning and tomato paste, mixing thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices and tomato flavor.
- Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute to lightly toast the grains, enhancing their flavor.
- Cook Rice: Pour in the chicken or beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer gently for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with Cheese and Salsa: Remove the skillet from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and salsa or diced tomatoes. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the taco rice warm, topped with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and slices of avocado if desired.
Notes
- This one-skillet dish is ideal for easy weeknight dinners and meal prep.
- For a healthier variation, substitute white rice with brown rice, and increase the broth to 2 ½ cups and cooking time to about 40-45 minutes accordingly.
- Use ground turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salsa or cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
