Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet Flavorful One-Pan Meal

by Ava on April 20, 2025

Are you ready to make dinner fun and simple? This Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings all your favorite taco flavors together in a quick and easy dish. With just the right blend of spices and cheese, you’ll have a meal that’s packed with taste and joy. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this flavorful skillet and impress your family tonight!

$- 1 cup long-grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed - 1 lb ground turkey or beef (your choice) - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce) - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies - 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth - 1 cup corn kernels (can use frozen or canned) - 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Sour cream (for serving, optional) Using long-grain white rice works best in this dish. It cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. Ground turkey is lean, while beef adds richness. Choose what you enjoy. Using fresh garlic and onion gives great flavor. Canned tomatoes with green chilies add a nice kick. Black beans boost protein and fiber. Always rinse them to cut sodium. Broth adds depth. You can pick chicken or vegetable broth based on your preference. Corn adds sweetness and texture, while cheddar cheese gives that gooey goodness. For a vegetarian option, swap ground meat for mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. If you want a spicy kick, add jalapeños or extra chili powder. Instead of black beans, try kidney beans or pinto beans. If you don’t have cheddar cheese, use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. You can also skip the cheese for a lighter version. When fresh cilantro isn’t available, use parsley or omit it entirely. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, gather all your ingredients. You will need: - 1 cup long-grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed - 1 lb ground turkey or beef - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce) - 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed - 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies - 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth - 1 cup corn kernels - 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Sour cream (optional) Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is clear. Next, add the minced garlic and the ground turkey or beef. Cook this mixture for 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat with a spatula. Cook until the meat is brown and no longer pink. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices. Allow it to cook for another minute to let the flavors shine. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the rinsed rice. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is fully submerged in the broth. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the rice to soak up the broth. After 15 minutes, carefully lift the lid. Be cautious of the steam. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Mix everything until it’s combined well. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Replace the lid and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will melt the cheese and heat the dish through. Taste it and add salt and pepper as desired. Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve it straight from the skillet for a fun family meal. Enjoy every bite of your cheesy taco rice skillet! To make your Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet shine, use fresh ingredients. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. Always choose quality broth, as it boosts the dish's taste. If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will enhance the taco flavor. Taste your dish as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate. Start by sautéing the onion until it’s soft. This builds a sweet base for your meal. When you add garlic, stir it for just a minute. This keeps the garlic from burning. Use a lid while simmering. It traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly. Stir the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking. This keeps every grain fluffy. Serve the Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet hot from the pan. This creates a fun, shared meal. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream. It adds creaminess and balances the spices. Fresh cilantro on top brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple salad or tortilla chips. Enjoy the flavors and textures! Pro Tips Use Homemade Broth: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken or vegetable broth instead of store-bought. It enhances the overall taste of the dish. Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap ground turkey or beef with other proteins like chicken, pork, or even plant-based alternatives for a unique twist. Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the skillet along with the other ingredients. Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to firm up slightly. {{image_4}} You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan. Swap the ground turkey or beef for a plant-based meat alternative. Options like lentils or crumbled tofu work great too. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a full vegan meal. Also, choose dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly option. Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem! If you lack black beans, try kidney beans or chickpeas instead. For the corn, frozen or canned works well. You can also use brown rice if you prefer a healthier grain, but adjust the cooking time. Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. If you like it spicy, add more taco seasoning or fresh jalapeños. For a milder dish, use less seasoning or omit it entirely. You can also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Taste as you go to find the right heat for you. After enjoying your cheesy taco rice skillet, let it cool. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place the skillet in a bowl and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth to a pan. Heat over medium heat until warm. Stir to prevent sticking. For freezing, pack the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can stay good for up to three months. Label the container with the date. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Yes, you can make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet ahead. Cook the dish fully, then cool it. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes meal prep easy and quick! Adjusting the serving size is simple. If you need more servings, just double the recipe. For fewer servings, cut the ingredients in half. Use the same cooking method and time. Keep in mind that the flavors may intensify as the dish cooks. Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet pairs well with many sides. Here are some options to consider: - A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette - Crispy tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole - Grilled corn on the cob with lime and chili powder - Sour cream and fresh cilantro for garnish These sides add variety and make your meal even more delightful! We covered many important points for making Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet. Start with the right ingredients, and consider swaps when needed. Follow easy steps to cook it well. Enhance the flavor with my tips and explore tasty variations. Remember to store any leftovers safely. You can even reheat or freeze for later meals. With this guide, you are ready to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy creating this dish!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the fuss.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed with this one-skillet dish, allowing you to enjoy your meal without worrying about a pile of dishes.
Customizable: You can easily swap out proteins or add more veggies based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile option for any pantry.
Cheesy Goodness: The generous amount of melted cheddar cheese creates a comforting and satisfying layer that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup long-grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed

– 1 lb ground turkey or beef (your choice)

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)

– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

– 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

– 1 cup corn kernels (can use frozen or canned)

– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Ingredient Notes

Using long-grain white rice works best in this dish. It cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. Ground turkey is lean, while beef adds richness. Choose what you enjoy. Using fresh garlic and onion gives great flavor. Canned tomatoes with green chilies add a nice kick. Black beans boost protein and fiber. Always rinse them to cut sodium. Broth adds depth. You can pick chicken or vegetable broth based on your preference. Corn adds sweetness and texture, while cheddar cheese gives that gooey goodness.

Substitutions and Alternatives

For a vegetarian option, swap ground meat for mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. If you want a spicy kick, add jalapeños or extra chili powder. Instead of black beans, try kidney beans or pinto beans. If you don’t have cheddar cheese, use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. You can also skip the cheese for a lighter version. When fresh cilantro isn’t available, use parsley or omit it entirely.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

First, gather all your ingredients. You will need:

– 1 cup long-grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed

– 1 lb ground turkey or beef

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)

– 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed

– 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

– 1 cup corn kernels

– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– Sour cream (optional)

Cooking Process

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is clear. Next, add the minced garlic and the ground turkey or beef. Cook this mixture for 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat with a spatula. Cook until the meat is brown and no longer pink. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices. Allow it to cook for another minute to let the flavors shine.

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the rinsed rice. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is fully submerged in the broth. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the rice to soak up the broth.

Finalizing the Dish

After 15 minutes, carefully lift the lid. Be cautious of the steam. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Mix everything until it’s combined well. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Replace the lid and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will melt the cheese and heat the dish through. Taste it and add salt and pepper as desired.

Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve it straight from the skillet for a fun family meal. Enjoy every bite of your cheesy taco rice skillet!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Flavor

To make your Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet shine, use fresh ingredients. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. Always choose quality broth, as it boosts the dish’s taste. If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. This will enhance the taco flavor. Taste your dish as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.

Cooking Techniques

Start by sautéing the onion until it’s soft. This builds a sweet base for your meal. When you add garlic, stir it for just a minute. This keeps the garlic from burning. Use a lid while simmering. It traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly. Stir the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking. This keeps every grain fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet hot from the pan. This creates a fun, shared meal. Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream. It adds creaminess and balances the spices. Fresh cilantro on top brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple salad or tortilla chips. Enjoy the flavors and textures!

Pro Tips

Use Homemade Broth: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken or vegetable broth instead of store-bought. It enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap ground turkey or beef with other proteins like chicken, pork, or even plant-based alternatives for a unique twist.
Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional value by adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the skillet along with the other ingredients.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to firm up slightly.

Variations

Vegetarian & Vegan Options

You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan. Swap the ground turkey or beef for a plant-based meat alternative. Options like lentils or crumbled tofu work great too. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a full vegan meal. Also, choose dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly option.

Ingredient Swaps

Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem! If you lack black beans, try kidney beans or chickpeas instead. For the corn, frozen or canned works well. You can also use brown rice if you prefer a healthier grain, but adjust the cooking time. Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Spice Levels

If you like it spicy, add more taco seasoning or fresh jalapeños. For a milder dish, use less seasoning or omit it entirely. You can also try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. Taste as you go to find the right heat for you.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your cheesy taco rice skillet, let it cool. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place the skillet in a bowl and cover it. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway. On the stovetop, add a splash of broth to a pan. Heat over medium heat until warm. Stir to prevent sticking.

Freezing Tips

For freezing, pack the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can stay good for up to three months. Label the container with the date. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet ahead. Cook the dish fully, then cool it. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. This makes meal prep easy and quick!

How to adjust the serving size?

Adjusting the serving size is simple. If you need more servings, just double the recipe. For fewer servings, cut the ingredients in half. Use the same cooking method and time. Keep in mind that the flavors may intensify as the dish cooks.

What can be served alongside Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet?

Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet pairs well with many sides. Here are some options to consider:

– A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette

– Crispy tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole

– Grilled corn on the cob with lime and chili powder

– Sour cream and fresh cilantro for garnish

These sides add variety and make your meal even more delightful!

We covered many important points for making Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet. Start with the right ingredients, and consider swaps when needed. Follow easy steps to cook it well. Enhance the flavor with my tips and explore tasty variations. Remember to store any leftovers safely. You can even reheat or freeze for later meals. With this guide, you are ready to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy creating this dis

Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet

A delicious one-pan meal featuring rice, ground meat, beans, and cheese, perfect for a family dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed
1 lb ground turkey or beef
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup corn kernels
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
to taste salt and pepper
for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped
for serving sour cream (optional)

Instructions

In a large skillet, pour the olive oil and heat over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Introduce the minced garlic and the ground turkey (or beef) into the skillet. Cook the mixture, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until the meat is deeply browned and cooked through, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
Add the taco seasoning to the skillet, stirring well to ensure that the meat is evenly coated with the spices. Allow this mixture to cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld and the spices become fragrant.
Carefully pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet and add the rinsed rice. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is submerged in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb most of the liquid.
After 15 minutes, take caution when lifting the lid to avoid the steam. Stir in the black beans, the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), and the corn kernels, mixing until evenly distributed.
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Replace the lid and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the entire dish is heated through.
Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking, adjusting according to personal preference.
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor and color.

Notes

Serve directly from the skillet for a vibrant family-style meal. Add sour cream and cilantro for garnish.

Keyword cheesy, one-pan, rice, skillet, taco