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cheesy taco rice

Cheesy Taco Rice is a flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the tastes of spicy taco seasoning with creamy cheese and tender rice. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican-American
Servings 4 People
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 medium pot or saucepan
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 measuring cups
  • 1 measuring spoons
  • 1 cheese grater optional

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro Optional
  • salt and pepper To taste
  • optional toppings sour cream, sliced jalapeños, avocado

Instructions
 

  • Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This will help remove excess starch.
  • In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice and chicken broth (or water). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the rice simmer for about 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  • While the rice is cooking, heat a medium-size skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add the taco seasoning to the cooked meat along with the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until heated through.
  • Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and stir it into the meat mixture until fully combined.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and cover the pot for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
  • Give the dish a gentle stir to incorporate the melted cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional toppings as desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or add more beans.
You can customize the heat level by adding more spices or using spicy taco seasoning.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can be easily reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.