Cheesy Taco Rice is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the wonderful flavors of tacos and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. This one-pot recipe is not only tasty but also easy to make, making it a great choice for cooks of any skill level.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Cheesy Taco Rice. First, it’s a complete meal that combines protein, carbs, and cheese all in one dish. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you won’t dread the cooking process!
How to Make Cheesy Taco Rice
Making Cheesy Taco Rice is simple! Follow these directions for a flavorful, cheesy dish that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet (1 oz/28g) taco seasoning (or 2 Tbsp homemade)
- 1 cup (190g) uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 ¾ cups (420ml) low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (50g) shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 tomato, diced (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned, about 5 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
- Stir in the taco seasoning along with 2-3 tablespoons of water, then cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat the rice with the beef mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring it to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
- Once the cheese has melted, fluff the rice with a fork, gently mixing the cheese throughout.
- Top with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Rice
Cheesy Taco Rice is easy to serve! Just scoop it out onto plates or bowls and add any extra toppings you like. You can serve it with tortilla chips, salsa, or additional cheese on top.
How to Store Cheesy Taco Rice
If you have leftovers, let the rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave it until warmed through or heat on the stove with a little extra broth to loosen it up.
Tips to Make Cheesy Taco Rice
- For added flavor, use homemade taco seasoning or add your favorite spices like cumin and paprika.
- You can customize the dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn during cooking.
- For a spicier version, add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Variations
You can easily switch up this recipe! Try using different types of meat like chicken or pork, or make it vegetarian by using beans instead of meat. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a little kick.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare Cheesy Taco Rice ahead of time and warm it up when ready to eat.
2. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can simply use water instead, but the dish will have a slightly less rich flavor.
3. How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice is done when it’s tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Taste a little to check for doneness!
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