Craving a delicious, easy-to-make dinner that combines the bold flavors of tacos with the comforting simplicity of rice? Look no further than this Taco Rice recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-skillet wonder brings together seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and melty cheese in a meal that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
- 450g (1 pound) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 480 ml (2 cups) water
- 360g (2 cups) Minute Rice, uncooked
- 240 ml (1 cup) salsa
- 100g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef to the skillet.
- Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon or spatula, until fully browned and no pink remains.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Add Seasoning and Liquid
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef.
- Pour in the water.
- Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a full boil.
- Cook the Rice
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add the uncooked Minute Rice to the skillet.
- Mix well to ensure rice is evenly distributed.
- Cover the skillet with a lid.
- Let cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until rice is tender.
- Final Touch
- Remove the lid.
- Stir in the salsa.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix until cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Turn off the heat.
- Serve
- Dish up the Taco Rice while hot.
- Enjoy immediately!
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (approximately):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
Cooking Details:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Choose a salsa with your preferred heat level – mild, medium, or hot.
- Add extra toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños for more flavor.
- Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Alternatives:
- Ground chicken
- Plant-based meat substitute
- Vegetarian crumbles
- Rice Options:
- Brown rice
- Cauliflower rice
- Quinoa
- Cheese Variations:
- Monterey Jack
- Pepper Jack
- Mexican blend cheese
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes! Use a gluten-free taco seasoning and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q2: How can I make this spicier? A: Use a hot salsa, add diced jalapeños, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Q3: Can I prepare this ahead of time? A: While best fresh, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheat in the microwave.
Q4: What side dishes pair well with Taco Rice? A: Try a simple green salad, corn chips, or refried beans.
Q5: Can I freeze Taco Rice? A: Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking.
- Best consumed within 2-3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying.
Dig into this delightful Taco Rice – a meal that brings the flavors of a taco night right to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum taste!