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Cheesy Taco Rice

Cheesy Taco Rice

Craving a meal that’s ready in minutes, packed with flavor, and won't derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further than Cheesy Taco Rice! This recipe is my go-to when I need a quick and satisfying family dinner that even the pickiest eaters (ahem, my kids!) adore. It's customizable, budget-friendly, and oh-so-delicious. Trust me, you’ll be hooked!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Rice Ingredients
  • 1 cup long-grain rice uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
Taco Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/vegetarian substitute)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning low sodium preferred
  • 1/2 cup water
Toppings & Cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
  • to taste Salsa
Optional Toppings
  • black olives
  • avocado
  • jalapeños

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

  1. Cook the Rice: Bring broth, oil, and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add rice, stir. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.
    2 cups chicken or vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup long-grain rice
  2. Brown the Beef: While rice cooks, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
    1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/vegetarian substitute)
  3. Taco Seasoning Time: Stir in taco seasoning and water into the cooked beef. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
    1 packet taco seasoning, 1/2 cup water, 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/vegetarian substitute)
  4. Combine the Magic: Stir cooked rice into the seasoned beef mixture. Mix very well.
    1 cup long-grain rice, 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/vegetarian substitute)
  5. Cheese, Please: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the rice and beef mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey.
    1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup long-grain rice, 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/vegetarian substitute)
  6. Top It Off: Remove from heat and garnish with diced tomatoes, green onions, and sour cream (if using). Serve immediately with salsa and your favorite taco toppings! Enjoy your Cheesy Taco Rice!
    1/2 cup diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup sliced green onions, 1/4 cup sour cream, to taste Salsa, black olives, avocado, jalapeños

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite taco toppings! Black olives, avocado, and jalapeños are great additions.