Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will require about 10-15 minutes more cooking time and possibly an extra 1/2 cup of broth. The nutty flavor works wonderfully with the taco seasonings, but you'll need to adjust your timing accordingly.

What if I don't have taco seasoning packet?

No problem! Make your own by combining 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon each of cumin and paprika, 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt, plus 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This homemade version actually lets you control the salt and avoid preservatives.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the ground beef with 2 cups of black beans or pinto beans (or a combination). You might want to add extra seasonings since the beans don't provide the same flavor as beef. Vegetable broth can replace the chicken broth for a fully vegetarian dish.

My family doesn't like cilantro—what can I use instead?

Cilantro definitely has strong supporters and detractors! If you're in the "tastes like soap" camp, replace it with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness, or simply omit it altogether. The dish will still be delicious without it.

Skillet Taco Rice Recipe

Name: Skillet Taco Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup diced yellow onion; 1 pound lean ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (1-ounce) package taco seasoning; 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 1/4 cups salsa; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese; 1 cup chopped cilantro; Diced tomatoes; Avocado; Sour cream; Green onion; Tortilla strips

Description

This Skillet Taco Rice is a simple, one-pan recipe perfect for busy weeknights. It combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning, tender bits of ground beef, and perfectly cooked rice in a savory and hearty meal. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, and optional toppings like avocado or tortilla strips, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe also reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced yellow onion
1 pound lean ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (1-ounce) package taco seasoning
1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 1/4 cups salsa
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup chopped cilantro

Optional Toppings:

Diced tomatoes
Avocado
Sour cream
Green onion
Tortilla strips

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Instructions

Cook the Onion
Heat the olive oil in a 9-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
Brown the Beef and Garlic
Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Simmer with Seasoning and Rice
Stir in the taco seasoning, uncooked rice, chicken broth, and salsa. Increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking. Cook until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
Add Cheese and Cilantro
Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro over the cooked mixture. Stir well to combine. Remove the skillet from heat, cover with the lid, and let it sit for 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Serve and Enjoy
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper, if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with your choice of toppings such as diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, green onion, or tortilla strips.

Notes

A 9-inch nonstick skillet works best for this recipe, but ensure your skillet has a lid for the simmering step.
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently for best results.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75