Taco Rice Skillet
This Taco Rice Skillet brings all that and more, combining seasoned beef, tender rice, melty cheese, and colorful veggies into one irresistible meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a weeknight win.
Servings 4
Calories 420kcal
Cost $10-$12
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey/chicken/plant-based crumble
- 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
- 2 ¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 cup salsa choose your preferred spice level
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels frozen, fresh, or canned
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper optional, for color and crunch
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade seasoning
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings
- sour cream avocado slices, chopped cilantro, jalapeños, green onions
Instructions
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed, then return the beef to the skillet.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat. Stir in the diced bell pepper, corn, and black beans. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes, just enough to warm and soften slightly, releasing their natural flavors.
- Add uncooked rice, salsa, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together well, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer for about 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Check halfway through and stir to prevent sticking.
- Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, cover the skillet again, and let the cheese melt for about 2–3 minutes.
- Uncover, garnish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro. Scoop and serve hot directly from the skillet!
Notes
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grating your own cheddar from a block will melt better and taste richer. Don’t Over-Stir While Simmering
Once the rice starts cooking, only stir once or twice. Too much stirring can lead to mushy or unevenly cooked rice. Taste and Adjust at the End
Once everything is cooked, give the skillet a quick taste. You might want to add a pinch of salt, an extra splash of salsa, or a bit more cheese depending on your preferences. Let It Rest Before Serving
Allowing the skillet to sit for 5 minutes before serving gives the flavors time to meld and helps the texture firm up, making it easier to serve clean portions.
Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grating your own cheddar from a block will melt better and taste richer. Don’t Over-Stir While Simmering
Once the rice starts cooking, only stir once or twice. Too much stirring can lead to mushy or unevenly cooked rice. Taste and Adjust at the End
Once everything is cooked, give the skillet a quick taste. You might want to add a pinch of salt, an extra splash of salsa, or a bit more cheese depending on your preferences. Let It Rest Before Serving
Allowing the skillet to sit for 5 minutes before serving gives the flavors time to meld and helps the texture firm up, making it easier to serve clean portions.