A delicious, hearty one-pan meal loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, melty cheese, and classic taco flavors — perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!

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📝 Description

If you love tacos but want an easy, no-fuss dinner, this Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet is your new go-to. Combining seasoned ground beef with fluffy rice, black beans, corn, and a generous layer of melted cheese, it’s like taco night and comfort food all rolled into one pan.

Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy families or anyone craving bold Mexican flavors without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable — swap beef for turkey or beans for extra protein, and add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

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🧂 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements)

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 ½ cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
• 1 packet (about 1 tablespoon) taco seasoning (or homemade, see tips)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Sour cream, salsa, avocado slices, and lime wedges for serving

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🍳 Instructions

1. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more. Add ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula.

2. Add Rice and Seasoning

Stir in rice and taco seasoning, cooking for 1 minute to toast the rice slightly and coat it with spices.

3. Add Liquids and Veggies

Pour in beef broth, black beans, and corn. Stir well and bring to a boil.

4. Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

5. Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted.

6. Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, avocado, and lime wedges.

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🔁 Variation (From Me!)

🌶️ Spicy Southwest Taco Skillet

Add 1 diced jalapeño with the onions and substitute pepper jack cheese for cheddar for a spicy kick. Top with sliced green onions and pickled jalapeños!

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🧠 Tips & Tricks

• Use brown rice, but increase simmer time to 40–45 minutes and add a bit more broth.
• Make your own taco seasoning with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add extra beans or crumbled tofu.
• Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice right before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.

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🔢 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg

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🍽 Perfect For

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping lunches
• Comfort food cravings
• Taco Tuesday with a twist
• Family-friendly meals