One Pot Taco Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Taco Rice is a flavorful and convenient dish that brings together all the classic taco ingredients in a single pan. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you want a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. With seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and melty cheese, it delivers all the comfort of tacos in an easy-to-make rice dish.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarlictaco seasoninglong grain white ricebeef brothcanned diced tomatoes (with green chilies)canned black beansfrozen cornshredded cheddar cheesefresh cilantro (optional)olive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir to combine.

Add uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir everything together.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat, stir, and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover for a few minutes to let the cheese melt.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Use brown rice instead of white, but increase cooking time and liquid.

Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.

Top with sour cream, avocado, or salsa for added richness.

Turn it into a burrito filling by using it as a base wrapped in tortillas.

storage/reheating

Store One Pot Taco Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice?

It’s best to use long grain white rice for this recipe. Instant rice may overcook and become mushy.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

You can use a mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano as a substitute.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth. Add more beans or veggies to bulk it up.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Make sure the heat is low during simmering, and stir occasionally if needed.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to kick up the heat.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also works well.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you may need to add a little extra broth or tomato sauce for moisture.

How do I know when the rice is done?

The rice should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed. If not, continue cooking covered for a few more minutes.

Is this good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats well and makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner.

Can I add lettuce or tomato on top?

Yes, just before serving, fresh toppings can add crunch and freshness.

Conclusion

One Pot Taco Rice is a simple yet bold-flavored meal that brings the spirit of taco night into a one-pan wonder. With easy prep, versatile ingredients, and loads of comforting taste, it’s a weeknight winner the whole family will enjoy. Give it a try and make it your go-to recipe for effortless Mexican-inspired comfort food.

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