If you love dishes that are packed with flavor yet simple to whip up, you’re going to adore this One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe. This vibrant, all-in-one skillet meal combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, hearty beans, and sweet corn into a colorful, comforting dish that practically cooks itself. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that brings bold Mexican-inspired tastes straight to your table without any fuss or extra cleanup. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be a go-to favorite for those nights when you want delicious food fast and easy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to make this dish shine. Each component brings something special, from the savory beef to the fresh burst of tomatoes and the satisfying texture of corn and beans. Together, they create a perfect harmony of flavors and colors in just one pan.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides rich, meaty flavor and protein to the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and subtle spice.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the beef and onions, adding a smooth texture.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade): Delivers that signature bold taco flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked): Acts as the hearty base to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): Adds a subtle kick and juicy freshness.
- 2 ¼ cups beef broth or water: Provides necessary liquid for cooking the rice perfectly.
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained: Offers creaminess and an earthy contrast in texture.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned): Adds a pop of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts on top for creamy, gooey satisfaction.
- Chopped cilantro and lime wedges (optional): Fresh garnishes that brighten each bite with zesty flavors.
How to Make One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and diced onions, breaking the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Cook everything together for about 5 to 6 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions turn translucent and tender. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning
Next, stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Cook for just one minute until the spices release their enticing aroma and coat the meat evenly. This quick step builds layers of flavor and ensures every bite is loaded with classic taco seasoning goodness.
Step 3: Combine Rice, Tomatoes, Broth, Beans, and Corn
Pour in the uncooked rice, undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies, beef broth, black beans, and corn. Give everything a good stir to mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Then bring the mixture up to a boil to kickstart the rice cooking process while infusing it with all those wonderful flavors.
Step 4: Simmer Until Rice is Tender
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This step is key for perfect, fluffy rice that’s bursting with savory, spicy goodness.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Once the rice is cooked through, remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pan again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes so the cheese can melt luxuriously into a creamy blanket that makes this dish utterly irresistible.
Step 6: Fluff and Garnish
Before serving, fluff the rice gently with a fork to mix in the melted cheese a bit and lighten the texture. If you like, sprinkle chopped cilantro and squeeze fresh lime wedges on top for an extra burst of freshness and zing that brightens every mouthful.
How to Serve One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Topping off your One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe with freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime adds an amazing fresh lift. You can also try sliced jalapeños for some heat or dollops of sour cream or guacamole for creamy richness. Simple garnishes really personalize the dish and add another layer of deliciousness.
Side Dishes
This taco rice is filling on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, serve it alongside crisp tortilla chips and salsa or a bright, crunchy salad like a classic Mexican street corn salad or a fresh tomato and avocado salad. These sides complement the savory rice and beef beautifully without taking away from the main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in crispy tortilla bowls or stuff it inside warm flour tortillas for taco-style burrito bowls. You can even turn it into a layered casserole topped with extra cheese and baked until bubbly for a cozy family meal. Presentation ideas like these elevate an everyday dish into something special and exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe keeps really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by portioning the rice into freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture. Cover the dish while reheating to keep the melted cheese soft and maintain that comforting texture that’s so satisfying.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lighter alternatives that still soak up the taco seasoning beautifully. Just follow the same cooking instructions for a healthier spin on this recipe.
What can I substitute for the canned diced tomatoes with green chilies?
If you don’t have diced tomatoes with green chilies, regular diced tomatoes work well, or you can add a chopped fresh chili pepper to keep that subtle heat. Just adjust to your personal spice preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your taco seasoning is gluten-free, this dish contains no gluten and is safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for extra beans or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or textured vegetable protein. The spices and veggies keep the dish full of flavor and texture.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on the taco seasoning used and the tomatoes with chilies. It’s generally mild to medium, but you can add fresh jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder if you like it hotter.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe is one of those magical meals that brings incredible flavor, convenience, and comforting satisfaction all in one pot. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a hearty, cheerful dinner without a lot of hassle. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do. Happy cooking!
Print
One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Description
One-Pan Taco Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make Mexican-inspired main course that combines ground beef, rice, and classic taco seasonings cooked together in a single skillet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is hearty, cheesy, and full of vibrant flavors from diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
Grains & Liquids
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
- 2 ¼ cups beef broth or water
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
Toppings & Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onion: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic and the taco seasoning, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant to infuse the flavors into the meat mixture.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice), beef broth or water, black beans, and corn kernels to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Covered: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish with Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the rice mixture, then cover again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts smoothly.
- Serve: Fluff the cheesy taco rice gently with a fork. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired, and serve while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option.
- Adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños enhances flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
