Here is a Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet recipe — a one-pan, weeknight-friendly comfort dinner that tastes like taco night meets creamy, cheesy rice!
⭐ Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
One pan · 30 minutes · Family-friendly
Ingredients (serves 4–6)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2–3 Tbsp homemade)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel (diced tomatoes + green chiles)
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, crushed tortilla chips, avocado
Instructions
- Brown the meat:
Heat a large skillet over medium. Add ground beef and onion. Cook until beef is browned; drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. - Season:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and stir to coat. - Add rice + liquids:
Add rice, Rotel (with juices), corn, and beef broth. Stir well. - Simmer:
Bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook 15–18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. - Make it cheesy:
Turn off heat, sprinkle cheese over the top, and cover for 2–3 minutes until melted. - Serve:
Add toppings and serve straight from the skillet.
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
- Creamy version: Stir in ½ cup sour cream before adding cheese.
- Spicy version: Use hot Rotel or add a minced jalapeño.
- Veggie boost: Add a diced bell pepper with the onion.
- Tex-Mex casserole style: Pour into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil 2–3 minutes.