If you’re in the mood for something comforting, flavorful, and seriously satisfying, you’re going to fall in love with this Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe. Imagine everything you crave in taco night—zesty beef, aromatic spices, melty cheese, and hearty beans—all brought together in one bubbly skillet. It’s the ultimate Tex-Mex mashup, perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with a hungry crowd, and there’s truly nothing quite like that warm, cheesy layer scooped right from the pan. One try of this dish, and you’ll be adding it to your regular meal rotation in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe has a purpose, building layers of flavor, color, and richness that make every forkful memorable. With a handful of staple pantry items and fresh accents, the Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe comes together simply but deliciously.
- Ground Beef: Use lean beef if you like less grease, but any ground beef delivers flavor and richness.
- Olive Oil: Gives a hint of fruitiness while keeping everything from sticking to the pan.
- Onion: Diced onion brings savory sweetness and depth to the base of your dish.
- Garlic: Two cloves, minced, boost the aromatic Tex-Mex personality of this classic.
- Taco Seasoning Mix: The shortcut to bold, zesty flavor—choose your favorite store-bought packet or use a homemade blend.
- Water: Helps dissolve the seasoning and creates a saucy base for simmering beef.
- Uncooked White Rice: Opt for long-grain white rice for the fluffiest texture after simmering.
- Beef Broth: Levels up the rice’s flavor—way tastier than cooking in water alone.
- Canned Corn: Brings subtle crunch and pops of sweetness that brighten every bite.
- Canned Black Beans: These add creaminess, protein, and hearty Tex-Mex heartiness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into creamy, gooey ribbons—don’t be shy with it!
- Salsa: Infuses every kernel and crumble with tangy, slightly spicy undertones.
- Salt and Pepper: A final dash to make all the flavors pop—taste and adjust at the end.
- Chopped Cilantro and Sour Cream (Optional): The brightest, most refreshing finish—garnish to your heart’s desire.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet or deep saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it begins to soften and smell sweet. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about one minute—you want the kitchen to fill with that savory aroma, but be careful not to let the garlic brown.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add your ground beef straight into the skillet. Use a spatula or spoon to break it up as it cooks, letting each crumble brown until there’s no pink left. This usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. For the best flavor, don’t skip draining any excess fat, which keeps the finished dish saucy, not greasy.
Step 3: Flavor It Up
With the beef browned, it’s taco time! Sprinkle in your taco seasoning mix and pour in half a cup of water. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes—the spices will soak right into the beef. This step is where the Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe really starts to come alive.
Step 4: Add Rice, Broth, and the Good Stuff
Now, tip in the uncooked white rice, beef broth, drained corn, rinsed black beans, and salsa. Stir to combine, making sure every grain of rice gets cozy with the broth and seasonings. Bring this mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, pop a lid on, and let everything simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will soak up all the delicious flavors, and the beans and corn add pops of texture and color.
Step 5: Get Cheesy!
This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for. Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir gently until the cheese melts into a glorious, creamy mix. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper until it hits just right.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Spoon the Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe into bowls and top with fresh chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if you’re feeling fancy. Whether you serve it hot out of the skillet or let it sit for a few minutes for easier scooping, this final flourish makes every bite sing!
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Bring brightness and freshness to this cozy dish by topping with heaps of chopped cilantro, a generous spoonful of sour cream, sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or even pickled jalapeños. Each garnish adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color that makes the Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This hearty one-skillet meal pairs beautifully with simple sides like crunchy tortilla chips, a quick green salad with lime vinaigrette, or charred street corn. If you’re feeling extra festive, try some refried beans or a scoop of guacamole on the side—the possibilities are endless, and every one is delicious!
Creative Ways to Present
The Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe is just as fun tucked into warm tortillas for handheld taco wraps, piled atop crisp tostadas, or scooped into baked bell peppers for a bright centerpiece. Leftovers also make an amazing filling for burritos or quesadillas. Don’t be afraid to get creative and turn this dish into something new every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), simply let the skillet cool to room temperature before transferring the Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinner repeats.
Freezing
This recipe freezes like a dream! Portion the cooled Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Squeeze out excess air and lay bags flat for efficient freezing. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Need to warm things up? Scoop your Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe into a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts, stirring halfway through, until it’s piping hot. Or, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to refresh the creamy texture. Top with fresh garnishes to revive that just-made magic.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! If you substitute brown rice, keep in mind it will need a longer simmer (about 40 to 45 minutes) and a bit more broth. The nutty, hearty flavor works great with all those Tex-Mex ingredients.
Is this recipe spicy?
As written, this Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe is mild to medium in heat, depending on your salsa and taco seasoning. For extra zing, swap in hot salsa, use spicy taco mix, or toss in chopped jalapeños!
Can I make it vegetarian?
You sure can. Swap out the beef for plant-based ground or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef. All the cheesy, hearty satisfaction, but totally meat-free.
What cheese is best for this recipe?
Cheddar is classic for its sharp flavor and great melt, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a little mozzarella for gooeyness. Use what your family loves most!
Can I prepare it in advance for a party?
Definitely! The Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe is party-perfect because it reheats wonderfully. Prep it earlier in the day, keep it covered, and warm through before serving. A sprinkle of extra cheese just before guests arrive never hurts, either!
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe is one you’ll reach for any time you crave comfort and crave-able Tex-Mex flavor without the fuss. It’s quick, friendly to all sorts of customizations, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—so gather your favorite toppings, invite some friends, and give it a try. You’re going to love every warm, cheesy spoonful!
Print
Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Taco Rice recipe is a flavorful and satisfying Tex-Mex dish that combines seasoned ground beef, rice, corn, black beans, and gooey melted cheddar cheese. It’s an easy stovetop meal that’s perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
Rice and Add-Ins:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup canned corn (drained)
- 1 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Toppings:
- Chopped cilantro
- Sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef, brown and crumble. Drain excess fat.
- Season and Simmer: Sprinkle taco seasoning over beef, add water, and simmer.
- Add Rice and Broth: Stir in rice, beef broth, corn, black beans, and salsa. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender.
- Melt Cheese: Stir in cheddar cheese until creamy. Adjust seasoning.
- Serve: Garnish with cilantro and sour cream, if desired.
Notes
- For extra heat, use hot salsa or jalapeños.
- Great as a main meal or taco filling.
- Reheats well for leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
