Cheesy Taco Rice – One-Pan 30 Minute Recipe

One-pan cheesy taco rice with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro in a skillet.

One-Pan 30 Minute Cheesy Taco Rice is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without a sink full of dishes. Because this recipe combines everything you love about tacos into a single skillet, it has quickly become a family favorite in our home.

Why This One-Pan Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe Works

First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly efficient since everything cooks in just one pan. Furthermore, the rice absorbs all the savory juices from the seasoned ground beef and broth, which results in maximum flavor in every bite. Additionally, you can easily customize the toppings to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

1 lb Ground Beef
1 small Onion, diced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 packet Taco Seasoning
1 ½ cups Long Grain White Rice (uncooked)
2 cups Beef Broth
1 can (10 oz) Rotel or diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups Shredded Cheddar or Mexican Blend Cheese
Optional: Fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, and lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef: Start by browning the ground beef and diced onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season: Once the beef is cooked through, drain the excess grease and then stir in the garlic and taco seasoning.
Simmer: Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes to the pan. Afterward, bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender.
Cheese it Up: Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and cover for another 2 minutes until perfectly melted.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4–6 people

Pro Tips for the Best One-Pan Cheesy Taco Rice

To ensure your rice doesn’t get mushy, make sure you don’t over-stir the pan while it is simmering. Meanwhile, if you prefer a bit of a kick, feel free to add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

Cheesy Taco FAQ

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, however, you will need to increase the liquid and the cooking time significantly.

Can I use ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still tastes delicious with these seasonings.

If you love easy Mexican-inspired meals, you should also try my Chicken Rice Bowl with Mexican Street Corn Recipe.