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Ground Beef Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet

This Ground Beef Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is a quick, one-pan dinner packed with bold taco flavor, tender rice, juicy beef, and melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s hearty, comforting, and easy to make with simple ingredients. A family favorite that’s ready in under 40 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup long grain white rice uncooked
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh or frozen
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Deep Skillet with Lid

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink.
  3. Stir in the garlic, taco seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir well so the rice is coated with the beef and spices.
  5. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Cover the skillet and lower the heat. Let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Stir in the corn and spread the mixture evenly in the pan.
  8. Sprinkle the cheese over the top. Cover again and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
  9. Remove from heat. Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Notes

Use a tight-fitting lid and low heat for perfect rice texture. Shred your own cheese for better melting. Add jalapeños or beans for variation.