Ground Beef Taco Rice Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Taco Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 2 cups beef broth; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Highlighted under: Fast & Delicious

I absolutely love whipping up this Ground Beef Taco Rice Skillet for dinner! It’s a one-pan meal that's not only easy to make, but full of flavor and spice. The way the savory ground beef combines with tender rice and zesty seasonings is simply delightful. Plus, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when I want something hearty yet quick to prepare. With a bit of cheese melted on top, it’s a satisfying dinner that my whole family looks forward to every week.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:49:36.545Z

When I first tried making this Ground Beef Taco Rice Skillet, I wasn't sure how the flavors would meld together. However, cooking the beef with taco seasoning and then adding tomatoes and rice created a beautiful one-pot dish that captured the essence of taco night. The rice cooks right in the skillet, absorbing all the delicious juices, making it incredibly tasty.

One specific tip I learned is to let the skillet sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen and the dish to thicken up slightly, making each bite absolutely irresistible. Don’t forget to add some freshly chopped cilantro for that extra fresh touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Packed with bold taco flavors everyone loves
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Cooking Techniques for Perfectly Flavored Beef

When browning the ground beef, make sure your skillet is preheated over medium heat. This step is crucial as it allows the meat to sear properly, locking in moisture and enhancing flavor. Stir the beef occasionally to break it into small pieces, cooking until it's browned but not crispy, usually around 6-8 minutes. If your pan starts to steam, lower the heat slightly—cooked beef should have a deep color without being burnt.

While draining excess fat is often necessary, leave a bit behind for sautéing your vegetables or rice. This fat carries flavor and ensures the dish remains moist, especially during the simmering process. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey, which adds a slightly different taste but remains satisfying.

Consider adding a touch of minced onion or garlic when browning the beef for an aromatic base. These ingredients infuse the skillet with a subtle aroma that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish, making every bite a bit more complex.

Smart Ingredient Swaps and Additions

If you want to switch up the textures in your taco rice skillet, consider using brown rice instead of white. Just be aware that it will take longer to cook—around 30-40 minutes—so plan your simmering time accordingly. Keep an eye on the liquid level; you may need to add a bit more broth or water to ensure the rice cooks thoroughly without drying out.

For those looking to reduce sodium, you can make your own taco seasoning using spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika. This not only tailors the flavor to your taste but can also help you control the salt content. If you want more heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or extra sliced jalapeños; just add them during the initial cooking phase to allow their flavors to meld.

Adding black beans or corn to the skillet not only boosts nutrition but also provides a delightful contrast in texture. Drain canned versions well to avoid excess moisture and stir them in together with the rice. This gives your dish extra bulk and heartiness, perfect for feeding a larger group on a budget.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking!

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
2 cups beef broth
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Ground Beef Taco Rice Skillet.

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Seasonings and Rice

Stir in the taco seasoning, rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Simmer the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Melt the Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover again for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat, garnish with your favorite toppings, and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can sauté some onions and bell peppers with the ground beef. Additionally, serve leftovers in tortillas for a delightful taco twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Ground Beef Taco Rice Skillet can easily be made ahead of time. Simply cook it as instructed but stop before adding the cheese. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the mixture before topping with cheese and melting.

If you want to take your meal prep a step further, consider freezing portions after cooking. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. This way, you can enjoy a hearty homemade meal even on the busiest days.

When serving leftovers, pair them with fresh sides like a simple guacamole or a crisp salad. This adds new textures and keeps the meal feeling fresh even if you’ve enjoyed it a couple of days in a row.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless. While I love classic sour cream, consider offering a variety such as avocado crema or spicy salsa for those who enjoy an extra kick. Chopped green onions and fresh cilantro can also brighten each serving, adding freshness that complements the dish beautifully.

For a more substantial meal, serve the taco rice skillet alongside warm tortilla chips or corn tortillas, allowing everyone to make their own tacos or nachos. This interactive element makes dinner more fun, especially for kids who enjoy assembling their own plates.

You could also serve it with a side of grilled corn or a refreshing slaw to balance out the richness of the dish. The crunch from the slaw can provide a delightful contrast to the soft texture of the rice and beef, making each bite satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid.

→ Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

Some great options include diced avocados, salsa, sliced black olives, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.