Cheesy Taco Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When I first created this Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet, it quickly became a favorite in my household. This one-pan recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you need something quick-cooking and delicious. Using minute rice,

flavorful taco meat, and plenty of melty cheese, this dish is ready in just 15 minutes. I often make it when we go camping in our trailer because it uses simple ingredients that I usually have in my tiny fridge and pantry. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility and ease, making it a go-to for any occasion. We can never get enough of it!

Jump to Recipe

What Is Cheesy Taco Rice

Cheesy Taco Rice is a quick and flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, bell peppers, and fluffy rice, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a comforting, taco-inspired meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Rice

1.5 lbs Ground beef or any ground meat you like

(2) 1 oz Packet of Taco Seasoning

10 oz Can of Rotel

2 Cups Instant Rice

2 Cups Sodium Beef Broth

1 Cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, grated

1 Cup Pepper Jack Cheese, Grated

Tips for the Best Cheesy Taco Rice

I like to use high-quality ground beef for a richer flavor to make this dish even better. Also, please don’t take your time draining the excess grease; it makes a big difference in the final dish.

I sometimes mix in some spices for the taco seasoning to give it a unique twist. And when it comes to the cheese, I prefer a sharp cheddar that melts perfectly under the broiler. This dish is quick to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and customizable with various taco toppings.

If you Love This Recepie Try More

Delicious Beef and Potato Tacos: A Twist on Tradition

One Pot Cheesy Taco Rice: Perfect Weeknight Meal

Enchirito- Taco Bell Copycat Recipe

Taco Boats: A Delicious Tex-Mex Delight

How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice

To make Cheesy Taco Rice:

Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil.

As the beef starts to cook, add the seasonings:

½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper

¼ teaspoon of cayenne

Two teaspoons of chili powder

One teaspoon each of cumin and dried cilantro

Mix these well into the beef.

Next, add a diced onion to the skillet. Continue cooking until the onion becomes translucent and soft and the meat is fully cooked. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish light and not too oily.

Now, it’s time to add the flavorful liquids and rice. Pour in one can of Rotel, one tomato sauce, ½ cup of beef broth, and one tablespoon of minced garlic. Stir well to combine all these ingredients.

Then, add one cup of uncooked rice to the skillet and mix everything thoroughly. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.

Once the rice is done, sprinkle 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Put the lid back on to help the cheese melt nicely. This adds a deliciously cheesy layer to your taco rice.

To serve, top the Cheesy Taco Rice with pico de gallo. This adds a touch of freshness and acidity that helps balance the dish’s flavors perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this meal with a side of tortilla chips. The chips add the perfect crunch to each bite. This dish is a hit with my boys, who enjoy the combination of flavors and textures. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can adjust the amount of cayenne or omit it altogether.

This weeknight recipe is one of my favorites because it’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Try it out, and I’m sure your family will love it as much as mine!

Helpful Tips

When making Cheesy Taco Rice, it’s essential to rinse your rice before adding it to the skillet. This step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.

You can adjust the spice level by lowering or increasing the cayenne to your desired heat to get the most out of your recipe. While a freshly shredded block of cheddar cheese works best for this recipe,

you can also use pre-shredded cheese if you’re in a pinch. Making pico de gallo beforehand allows the flavors to blend nicely and creates a better flavor that complements the cheesy rice perfectly.

With these tips, your Cheesy Taco Rice will be a delicious and flavorful dish everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Rice is a quick, flavorful, and versatile one-pan dish that has become a household favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or camping trips, combining seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, bell peppers, and rice, all topped with melty cheese. The recipe is simple and adaptable, with easy-to-find ingredients like minute rice, taco seasoning, and cheeses. You can enhance the dish’s flavor by following a few helpful tips, such as using high-quality beef and freshly shredded cheese. This comforting meal will surely be a hit with your family, providing a delicious, customizable, and satisfying dinner option.