Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a quick and comforting meal packed with flavor. It combines all the delicious tastes of tacos in an easy-to-make one-pan dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a tasty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it great for family dinners!
How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 2 cups ready rice (like instant rice or pre-cooked rice)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, and corn.
- Add the ready rice and mix well.
- Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover, and reduce the heat to low.
- Let it sit until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve hot.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Serve your Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet hot right from the pan. You can enjoy it as is or top it with extra salsa, sour cream, or avocado slices. It also goes well with tortilla chips or a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot. If you notice the rice has absorbed too much moisture, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Tips to Make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
- Use lean ground beef to make the dish lighter.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers or onions.
- For more heat, add jalapeños or spicy salsa.
- If you don’t have ready rice, you can cook regular rice as per package instructions and add it as needed.
Variation
You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a healthier alternative. For a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute or use extra beans. You can also add more cheese for an even cheesier dish!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up and add the cheese when you are ready to eat.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated. You can also use them as a filling for burritos or quesadillas.
Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef Use lean ground beef to make the dish lighter.
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 2 cups ready rice (like instant rice or pre-cooked rice) If you don't have ready rice, cook regular rice as per package instructions.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Add more cheese for an even cheesier dish!
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa For more heat, add jalapeños or spicy salsa.
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to taste Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, salsa, black beans, and corn.
- Add the ready rice and mix well.
Cooking
- Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover, and reduce the heat to low.
- Let it sit until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
Serving
- Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve hot.