Description
This Best Taco Rice recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and tender rice. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, it brings all the classic taco flavors into a comforting rice bowl, topped with optional cheese and fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water (or as directed by seasoning packet)
- ½ cup salsa
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to package instructions. Once done, set it aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, using a spoon to break apart the meat evenly. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add taco seasoning and simmer: Stir the taco seasoning into the beef mixture along with the water (or the amount indicated on the seasoning packet). Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine rice and beef: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with the seasoned beef. Stir thoroughly so the rice is evenly coated with the taco-seasoned beef mixture.
- Incorporate salsa and heat through: Stir in the salsa and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the entire dish is heated through and well combined.
- Serve with toppings: Serve the taco rice hot, garnished with optional shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Add a diced bell pepper for extra color and nutrition if desired.
- The salsa adds moisture and a tangy flavor, but you can adjust the amount based on your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or beans and use vegetarian taco seasoning.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
