Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe

A family-friendly recipe that brings the flavors of Mexican food to your table. This Ultimate Cheesy Taco Rice recipe is the perfect one-pot meal that combines all your favorite taco ingredients into a hearty, satisfying dish. With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this taco rice recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights or any taco Tuesday. It features ground beef, rice, salsa, seasoning, and cheese, all cooked together in one skillet. Serve it with tortilla chips, fresh tomato salsa, sour cream, and lettuce for a well-rounded meal.

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Cheesy Taco Rice on a white plate with text overlay.

I like one pan meals, especially during the week. My Sheet Pan Sausage and Vegetables, Baked Pork Chop and Rice, Chicken and Yellow Rice Casserole, and Million Dollar Chicken Casserole are dishes that show up on our rotation quite often. Taco Rice is a simple recipe that is incredibly hearty! This delicious dish is easy to make in just one pan on the stove, delivering a delightful, cheesy Mexican beef and rice casserole in just 30 minutes. With simple ingredients perfect for taco night, you can have dinner on the table in no time.

A Quick and Easy Dinner

I’m all about quick and easy dinners these days, and this one-pot cheesy taco rice is perfect for the whole family. With just a few ingredients like rice, taco-seasoned ground beef, and cheese, it’s the ultimate solution for those nights when you need a fast, satisfying meal. This recipe is a winner if you’re looking for a convenient dinner option. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, consistently delivering on taste and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your rotation or a way to jazz up your taco night, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy the hearty, bold flavors and the ease of a one-pot meal with this delicious taco rice recipe.

What Is Taco Rice

Taco rice is a delightful fusion dish that combines the flavors of a classic Tex-Mex taco with hearty rice. It is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines seasoned meat, savory rice, and all your favorite taco toppings in one satisfying dish. A comforting and convenient one-pot rice dish.

For more information about Taco Rice, be sure to read about Okinawan Taco Rice here.

Why This Recipe Is Great

I love making this dish, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s the ultimate easy dinner option, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying. The combination of seasoned meat, savory rice, and melty cheese creates a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal with minimal cleanup—a win-win for any home cook! It reheats nicely, making it a great lunch option for the next day.

We love rice dishes in our home. Some of our favorites are: Chicken and Rice, Rice Dressing, Mushroom Rice, Pork Chops and Rice, and Red Beans and Rice.

Cheesy Taco Rice shown in two pictures on a white plate with text overlay.

Ingredients Needed for One Pot Mexican Casserole

This easy taco rice skillet dinner uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Please see the printable recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and amounts. Here is an overview of what you’ll need for this recipe.

Ground Beef
Taco Seasoning
Water
Minute Rice/Instant Rice
Salsa
Shredded Cheddar Cheese

How To Make Cheesy Taco Rice

Step 1: Brown Ground Beef

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Water

Step 3: Add Rice and Cook

Step 4: Add Salsa and Cheese

Step 5: Serve

Favorite Taco Toppings for Taco Rice

You have so many choices when it comes to topping your taco rice. Of course, you could eat this dish with no additional toppings, but adding a few will elevate the flavors and add a delightful crunch and freshness. Options like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of chopped green onions can turn your taco rice into a truly customized and mouthwatering meal.

Shredded Lettuce

Refried Beans

Sour Cream

Diced Tomatoes

Sliced Jalapenos

Chopped Green Onions

Fresh Pico de Gallo

Sliced Avocados

Do I Have To Use Ground Beef?

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. You can also use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork for a different flavor.

Easy Taco Rice Recipe on a white plate with text overlay.

Tips and Variations for the Best Taco Rice Skillet

These are just a few tips and variations to enhance your taco skillet rice casserole. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Get creative and make this a dish your whole family will love.

Use Instant rice. It cooks just right in this recipe. If using another type of rice, you may need to adjust the amount of water and time needed to cook it.
Black beans can add depth and heartiness. Drain and rinse the beans before adding to the skillet.
A few tablespoons of tomato sauce can add a deeper tomato flavor.
Feel free to use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Toss in some bell peppers, corn, or pinto beans for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish right from the stovetop or alongside tortilla chips. Top with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, and diced onions for added freshness and crunch. This dish pairs wonderfully with side dishes like refried beans, corn, or a light salad. It’s perfect for a twist on a taco dinner, a family gathering, or any night you want a quick and satisfying meal.

How To Store Leftover Taco Rice

Store any leftover taco rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick and easy meal the next day. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Recipe FAQs

Can I Make This Dish With A Different Rice?

Yes, you can use a different rice for this recipe. However, it may require a longer cooking time.

How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

To add more heat to your taco rice, consider adding a teaspoon of chili powder, a dash of cayenne pepper, or even some diced jalapeños. For an extra kick, you can also use a spicy taco seasoning mix instead of the regular one or you might also consider a hot salsa for more heat.

More Rice Dishes

Chicken and Yellow Rice Casserole

Baked Pork Chop and Rice Casserole

Easy Rice Dressing

Broccoli and Rice Casserole