Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe

This Cheesy Taco Rice is a one-pan wonder that’s bursting with flavor! It’s a delicious combination of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a medley of Tex-Mex inspired ingredients, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a fun family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, and cheese creates a delicious and satisfying flavor profile.
• Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-pan meal: Less cleanup, more time to enjoy your delicious dinner!
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite taco toppings.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Rice

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive Oil: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables.
• Ground Beef: Use your preferred fat content.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a savory base to the dish.
• Garlic: Use fresh, jarred, or even garlic powder.
• Taco Seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic taco flavor.
• Beef Broth: Creates a flavorful base for the rice.
• Rotel: Diced tomatoes and green chilies add a spicy kick.
• Tomato Paste: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Long Grain White Rice: Cooks up fluffy and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• Shredded Cheese: Use your favorite variety of cheese for a melty, cheesy topping.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet with high sides, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings

Add the garlic and taco seasoning to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Simmer with Rice

Stir in the beef broth, Rotel, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the rice and bring back to a boil. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low or low, and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Cheesy Taco Rice hot with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and chopped cilantro.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Garlic: You can use fresh garlic, jarred garlic, garlic paste, or even garlic powder.
• Spice level: Use spicy Rotel, pepper jack cheese, and jalapeños for a spicier version. For a milder version, use mild Rotel, mild taco seasoning, and a cheese like Colby Jack.
• Skillet size: Make sure to use a large skillet with high sides and a lid to prevent the mixture from boiling over.

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Rice

• Weeknight dinner: This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• Family meal: It’s also a great option for a fun and satisfying family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cheesy Taco Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the Cheesy Taco Rice gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice or even quinoa instead of white rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the ground beef and onions on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the rice is tender.

My Cheesy Taco Rice is a bit dry, what should I do?
If your Cheesy Taco Rice is a bit dry, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to moisten it up.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more vegetables, such as black beans, corn, or bell peppers.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Cheesy Taco Rice. I hope you enjoy it!

Print