Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup corn (optional)
- 1 can black beans, drained (optional)
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Chopped cilantro
- Green onions
- Sour cream
- Jalapeños
Instructions
1. Cook the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add Vegetables
- Stir in onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add Rice and Seasonings
- Stir in uncooked rice, taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to coat the rice with flavor.
4. Add Liquids
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
- Stir everything together.
5. Simmer
- Bring to a light boil.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Cover and cook for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.
6. Add Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the skillet.
- Cover for 2–3 minutes until melted.
7. Serve
Top with cilantro, sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños.
Tips for Best Results
Use Long-Grain Rice
It cooks evenly and stays fluffy.
Toast the Rice Briefly
Cooking rice for 1–2 minutes before adding liquid adds flavor.
Keep the Lid Closed
This helps the rice cook properly.
Adjust the Spice Level
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for more heat.
- Use mild seasoning for a family-friendly version.
Add Extra Vegetables
Good additions include:
- Zucchini
- Mushrooms
- Spinach
- Diced tomatoes with chilies
Make It Creamier
Stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth or water.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Tortilla chips
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Side salad
- Warm tortillas
Pairs well with:
- Lime wedges
- Fresh avocado
- Mexican-style corn
Popular Variations
Cheesy Skillet
Extra cheese mixed into the rice.
Spicy Version
Made with hot chilies and pepper jack cheese.
Healthy Version
Use lean ground turkey or brown rice.
Taco-Inspired Version
Top with lettuce, tomatoes, and crushed tortilla chips.
If you’d like, I can also provide:
- a quick 30-minute version,
- slow cooker adaptation,
- authentic Mexican-style variation,
- or a high-protein meal-prep version.
