This dish mixes browned beef, beans, corn, rice, and cheese in one skillet. You get taco flavor without much work. It is great for busy weeknights and for meal prep. If you enjoy hearty rice dishes, you might also like Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is quick, filling, and full of flavor. It uses simple pantry items and ready rice to save time. It feeds a family and makes easy leftovers. If you like one-pan dinners, this is a great choice.
How to make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Heat a large skillet and cook the ground beef until it is brown. Drain off extra fat. Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Stir in ready rice and a splash of water if the rice is dry. Sprinkle cheese on top, cover the pan, and let the cheese melt. Serve with fresh toppings like cilantro, tomatoes, or sour cream.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 2 cups ready rice
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Taco seasoning (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Directions :
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat.
- Add the black beans, corn, and taco seasoning, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the ready rice and add a splash of water if necessary to heat through.
- Top with shredded cheese, cover the skillet, and let it melt for a few minutes.
- Serve warm with optional toppings.
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
A quick and filling one-pan meal mixing beef, beans, corn, rice, and cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn, drained
- 2 cups ready rice
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Taco seasoning (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat.
- Add the black beans, corn, and taco seasoning, stirring to combine.
- Stir in the ready rice and add a splash of water if necessary to heat through.
- Top with shredded cheese, cover the skillet, and let it melt for a few minutes.
- Serve warm with optional toppings.
Notes
For best results, drain the beef well to avoid greasiness. Use a mix of cheeses for a smoother melt. Can be served with tortillas or chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to serve Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Serve it hot straight from the skillet. Top with cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a spoonful of sour cream. You can also serve it with warm tortillas, chips, or a simple side salad.
How to store Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Cool the skillet before storing. Put leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To freeze, pack into freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
- Drain the beef well so the dish is not greasy.
- Use ready rice to save time. Add a splash of water if it seems dry while heating.
- Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for smooth melt.
- Add a squeeze of lime for bright flavor.
- If you want to turn this into a wrap, try the idea used in Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps and roll the filling in warm tortillas.
Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Make it vegetarian by leaving out the meat and adding extra beans or cooked lentils.
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for more color and heat.
- Use brown ready rice for a heartier texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh cooked rice instead of ready rice?
A: Yes. Use about 2 cups of cooked rice and warm it in the skillet with a little water if needed.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Cook fully, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat before serving. Cheese will melt when reheated.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of water, or microwave until hot. Add cheese and cover briefly to melt.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Not unless you use spicy taco seasoning or add jalapeños. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Conclusion
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is simple, fast, and tasty. It uses few ingredients and makes a warm meal for the family. Try the recipe as written or make small changes to fit your taste.
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