One-Pot Taco Rice

This comforting one-pot meal combines seasoned ground beef with fluffy rice and zesty taco flavors for an effortless weeknight dinner. Topped with melted cheese and fresh garnishes, it captures the soul of a taco in a hearty, satisfying bowl.

One-Pot Taco Rice
  • Prep time: 19 minutes
  • Cook time: 37 minutes
  • Total time: 56 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: International

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced white onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and sauté onion until translucent.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for one minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the uncooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly.
  6. Simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Stir in the frozen corn and let it heat through for two minutes.
  8. Remove from heat, sprinkle with cheese, and cover until melted before serving with cilantro.

Tips

  • Rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to ensure the final texture is fluffy rather than sticky.
  • If the liquid absorbs too quickly before the rice is tender, add a splash of water or broth.
  • Customize the heat level by adding a diced jalapeño along with the onions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to increase the broth to 3 cups and extend the simmering time to 45 minutes.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can this be frozen?

It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the rice texture may become mushy upon thawing.