Skillet Taco Rice
This one-pan wonder combines everything you love about tacos with the hearty satisfaction of perfectly seasoned rice. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone rush to the table the moment they smell it cooking.
Imagine perfectly seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice infused with rich taco flavors, and melty cheese all coming together in one skillet. This isn’t just dinner – it’s a fiesta in a pan that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The best part? You’ll only have one pan to wash!
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (1-ounce) package taco seasoning
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- 1¼ cups salsa
For Finishing:
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped cilantro
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Sliced green onions
- Crispy tortilla strips
Steps
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Add diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until translucent and softened. You’ll know it’s ready when the onions become slightly golden at the edges.
- Add ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 8-10 minutes until well-browned, stirring occasionally. Look for no pink remaining and some crispy edges forming. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant – don’t overcook or it will become bitter.
- Stir in taco seasoning, ensuring meat is evenly coated. Add uncooked rice and stir for 30 seconds to toast slightly. This step adds depth to the final flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth and salsa. Bring to a boil (you’ll see rapid bubbles across the surface), then immediately reduce heat to low (200°F/93°C). Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking. Rice is done when liquid is absorbed and grains are tender.
- Sprinkle cheese and cilantro over the top. Cover and remove from heat for 2 minutes until cheese melts completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while hot, topped with your choice of garnishes. The rice will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so don’t delay serving.
