If you want a fuss-free, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and satisfies every craving, this One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe is your new go-to. It brilliantly combines savory taco-seasoned meat, tender rice, fresh veggies, and melty cheese in a single skillet for a dinner that’s bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this dish is not only easy to make but also endlessly customizable and downright comforting from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe plays an important role, keeping the dish simple yet packed with flavor, texture, and a pop of color. From the hearty protein to the juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese, each element helps create a perfectly balanced meal that’s pleasing to both the eyes and your taste buds.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding a rich, smooth base flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey: The protein star that carries all the savory taco spices.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds natural sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings that irresistible, aromatic punch.
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic Mexican-inspired spice.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked): Absorbs those delicious flavors and provides a tender, fluffy texture.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds brightness and a juicy complexity.
- 2 1/4 cups beef or chicken broth: Helps cook the rice while deepening the savory notes.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained): Contributes natural sweetness and texture contrast.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese: Creates that melty, gooey topping everyone loves.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Chopped cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños for garnish (optional): Adds freshness, color, and a touch of heat.
How to Make One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Onions
Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or deep sauté pan. Add your ground beef or turkey along with the chopped onion. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks, letting the flavors intensify while the onion softens and becomes sweet. This step lays the flavorful foundation for the entire dish and usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if necessary, so your dish doesn’t turn greasy!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning
Next, toss in the minced garlic and taco seasoning. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute more until the aromas are fragrant and your kitchen smells like your favorite Mexican restaurant. This brief step ensures the spices bloom perfectly, coating the meat with that unmistakable taco flair.
Step 3: Combine Rice, Tomatoes, Broth, and Corn
Now time to bring it all together. Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the pan and stir well, so each grain gets a little love from the seasoned mixture. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the broth, then stir in the corn kernels. Bringing the mix to a simmer prepares the rice to soak up all that delicious liquid infused with rich, savory taco flavor.
Step 4: Simmer Until Rice is Tender
Cover your pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and cook gently for about 18 to 20 minutes. This steaming phase is where magic happens—the rice absorbs the broth and takes on those wonderful taco seasonings, becoming tender and perfectly cooked. Check toward the end to ensure the liquid is mostly absorbed but not dry.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Remove the lid and sprinkle a generous cup of shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese evenly over the top. Cover the pan again for 2 to 3 minutes to let the cheese melt indulgently into creamy pockets throughout the dish. This final cheesy touch is what turns this recipe into a full-on comfort food delight.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, feel free to add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or jalapeños to bring freshness, a little crunch, and an extra kick if you like. Spoon into bowls and enjoy that gorgeous, all-in-one taco rice goodness straight from the pan.
How to Serve One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes add personality and an inviting freshness to your One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe. Bright cilantro leaves give a herbal lift, green onions add a subtle bite, and sliced jalapeños offer some heat for those who crave a spicy punch. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can also help balance the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish is satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with sides like crunchy tortilla chips, a fresh garden salad, or even roasted vegetables for some extra nutrients and textures. A quick avocado salad or simple guacamole can complement the cheesy, seasoned rice perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe inside crispy taco shells or stuffed peppers. You can also layer it in burrito bowls with beans, lettuce, and your favorite toppings. This versatility makes it perfect for casual family dinners or even party platters that let guests customize their own bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, and it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an easy grab-and-go lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze the One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe in portions for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, pack it in freezer-safe containers, and label them. When you want a hassle-free meal, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice seems dry. To revive the cheese’s melty goodness, sprinkle a little more on top and cover while warming.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber but requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust accordingly—about 40-45 minutes and extra broth.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap out the meat for black beans or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth. Skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is the One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe?
The spice level depends on the taco seasoning you use and your choice of garnishes. Using mild seasoning keeps it family-friendly, while adding jalapeños or hot sauce can amp up the heat.
Can I prepare this in advance and reheat it for a busy weeknight?
Definitely. This recipe reheats beautifully and tastes just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or quick dinners after a long day.
What are some good protein alternatives besides ground beef or turkey?
Ground chicken, pork, or even shredded cooked chicken work great. For a lighter option, try beans or lentils for added plant-based protein and texture diversity.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want on repeat because it ticks all the boxes: easy, flavorful, comforting, and adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a crowd, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers big on taste without big effort. Give it a try—you might just discover your new weeknight favorite!
Print
One-Pan Taco Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Pan Taco Rice is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and veggies in one skillet. Perfectly cheesy and customizable, it’s a comforting Mexican-inspired dish that comes together easily on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- chopped cilantro, green onions, or jalapeños for garnish (optional)
Grains and Seasoning
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 1/4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Onion: In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the meat is fully browned and the onion becomes softened. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Taco Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for an additional 1 minute to allow the flavors to release fully.
- Add Rice and Liquids: Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, broth, and corn kernels into the skillet. Stir everything to combine evenly and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook gently for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Melt the Cheese: Remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the rice mixture. Cover again and allow it to cook for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Garnish and Serve: Add chopped cilantro, green onions, or sliced jalapeños as garnish if desired. Serve the taco rice warm for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Customize by adding black beans or diced bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
- For extra heat, stir in diced green chiles or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
