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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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.