If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful dinDinnerner that the whole family will devour, this Cheesy Taco Beef and Rice Skillet is the ultimate solution. Combining seasoned taco beef, tender rice, diced tomatoes, and a generous layer of melted cheese, this one-pan meal delivers all the bold, comforting flavors of a Mexican dinner in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this taco rice skillet recipe is easy to prepare, versatile, and endlessly satisfying.

Whether you’re juggling schedules, picky eaters, or just craving a fuss-free meal, this skillet dinner hits all the right notes. The cheesy taco beef, infused with classic Mexican spices, simmers alongside rice in a savory broth, resulting in a dish that’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Top it with sour cream, pico de gallo, guacamole, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a personalized touch that makes it feel extra special.

---

Cheesy Taco Beef Skillet – Taco Rice Skillet Recipe

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

---

Ingredients

For the Skillet:

• 1 lb. lean ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, diced (optional for spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (or petite diced tomatoes)
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup uncooked rice (jasmine, long grain, or white rice)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Pico de gallo
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Hot sauce

---

How to Make Cheesy Taco Beef and Rice Skillet – Step-by-Step

1. Brown the taco beef
Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, jalapeño (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and garlic powder.

2. Build the skillet base
Pour in the tomato sauce, canned diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine and create a rich, flavorful sauce.

3. Add the rice
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, ensuring it is fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes, checking periodically to make sure the rice absorbs the liquid evenly. Add a splash more broth if necessary. Brown rice may take a few minutes longer.

4. Melt the cheese
Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for an additional 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. Finish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.

5. Serve and enjoy
Dish out the cheesy taco beef and rice directly from the skillet. Offer optional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, or hot sauce. This makes the meal fully customizable for every family member.

---

More About This Dinner Recipe

This Cheesy Taco Beef and Rice Skillet is a perfect weeknight dinner because it’s easy, flavorful, and requires minimal cleanup. The taco beef is seasoned with a classic blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, paprika, and onion powder, which infuses the rice as it cooks. Meanwhile, the cheese on top creates a melty, comforting layer that makes this skillet dinner feel indulgent while still being family-friendly.

It’s also highly adaptable. Add bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra vegetables. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation. You can even make it vegetarian by swapping the beef with crumbled tofu or extra beans.

This taco rice skillet recipe is designed to solve the nightly question: “What’s for dinner?” By keeping it one-pan, under 30 minutes, and bursting with bold Mexican flavors, it’s a meal the whole family will enjoy repeatedly.

---

Tips & Variations

• Spice it up: Add fresh or pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to elevate the heat.
• Cheese options: Use pepper jack, a Mexican blend, or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for variety.
• Rice swaps: Jasmine rice cooks quickly, but long grain or brown rice works well too (adjust cooking time).
• Vegetable boost: Stir in corn, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Leftovers: This dish freezes well, though rice may soften slightly upon reheating.

---

Print