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This One-pan Cheesy Taco Rice bursts with amazing taste! It throws together seasoned beef, fluffy rice, and Tex-Mex goodies, all smothered in melty cheese. It's super quick to make and works great for busy nights or fun family dinners - you'll definitely want this in your regular cooking rotation!
What You'll Need
- Olive Oil: Used to cook the ground beef and veggies until they're nice and brown.
- Ground Beef: Pick whatever fat level you want. I usually grab lean beef to keep it lighter.
- Yellow Onion: Gives the dish a tasty base flavor. Cooking it with the meat brings out its sweetness.
- Garlic: You can use fresh cloves, pre-minced, or garlic powder in a pinch. Fresh tastes best though!
- Taco Seasoning: Adds that familiar taco flavor punch we all love.
- Beef Broth: Gives the rice tons of flavor as it cooks.
- Rotel: These diced tomatoes with green chilies add some zip to the dish.
- Tomato Paste: Makes everything richer and more flavorful.
- Long-Grain White Rice: Soaks up all the yummy flavors and cooks up nice and fluffy.
- Shredded Cheese: Grab whatever kind you enjoy most. I'm partial to mixing cheddar with Monterey Jack.
Simple Cooking Steps
- Cook Beef with Onions:
- Put your olive oil in a big, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in ground beef and onion, then cook until the meat browns and onions turn clear. Pour off any extra fat so your dish won't be greasy.
- Mix in Flavors:
- Throw in the garlic and taco seasoning, then stir for about 30 seconds. The kitchen will smell amazing right away!
- Add Rice and Liquid:
- Pour in beef broth, Rotel, and tomato paste, then mix everything well. Let it come to a boil before adding rice. Once boiling again, put the lid on, turn heat to medium-low, and let it cook for 15 minutes. The rice will soak up all those tasty flavors.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle cheese evenly across the top and cook 5 more minutes until it's all melty and bubbly.
- Dish it Up:
- Serve your Cheesy Taco Rice while it's hot and let everyone add their favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, fresh pico, or cilantro.
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I can't get enough of how flexible this dish is. It's my go-to when I'm rushed but still want something tasty. Those cheesy, spicy flavors never let me down.
Tasty Side Options
This dish goes great with some crunchy tortilla chips, a crisp green salad, or a scoop of guacamole. If you want something heartier, wrap it in warm flour tortillas or add a side of refried beans.
Make It Your Own
- Heat It Up:
- Go for hot Rotel, pepper jack cheese, and chopped jalapeños if you like things fiery.
- Keep It Gentle:
- Stick to mild Rotel, mild taco seasoning, and something like Colby Jack cheese for less kick.
- Sneak In Veggies:
- Mix in some diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or black beans for extra crunch and nutrition.
Saving For Later
Keep any extras in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 3 days. Warm it back up on the stove or in your microwave until it's hot throughout.
This One-pan Cheesy Taco Rice is total comfort food that's quick to make and loaded with flavor. It's as fun to cook as it is to eat, and I bet you'll be making it again and again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap beef for chicken?
- Of course! Ground chicken or turkey works great if you want a healthier spin.
- → Is this okay for gluten-free diets?
- Yep, as long as your taco spices and broth are gluten-free.
- → How do I make it extra spicy?
- Turn up the heat by using jalapeños, spicy cheese, or even hot Rotel.
- → What’s the best way to keep leftovers?
- Pop any extras into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days.
- → What sides pair well with it?
- Try adding pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole, or even fresh herbs for a flavor boost.