Savory Beef Taco Rice Fiesta Skillet
Indulge in a deliciously vibrant one-dish meal that brings the flavors of tacos and rice together in one easy skillet. This Savory Beef Taco Rice Fiesta Skillet features perfectly browned ground beef seasoned with zesty taco spices, complemented by chunky salsa and wholesome corn. Topped with melty cheese and fresh toppings like shredded lettuce and ripe tomatoes, this dish is not only a family favorite but also a fantastic way to use leftovers. Wrap any extras in a warm flour tortilla for a delightful lunch the next day, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef
1 lb (browned and drained)
taco seasoning mix
1 (1 1/4 ounce) envelope (add to cooked beef)
water
1 1/2 cups (add to skillet)
thick & chunky salsa
1 cup (add to skillet)
frozen whole kernel corn
1 cup (add to skillet)
uncooked instant rice
1 1/2 cups (stir into boiling mixture)
shredded taco blend cheese
3/4 cup (sprinkle on top)
shredded lettuce
1 cup (use for garnish)
medium tomato, chopped
1 (use for garnish)
sour cream
as desired (serve on the side)
Instructions
1
In a 10-inch skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat.
2
Add the taco seasoning mix, water, salsa, and frozen corn to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3
Stir in the uncooked instant rice and allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and cover. Let it sit for 8 minutes to allow the rice to absorb the flavors.
4
After 8 minutes, fluff the rice mixture with a fork and sprinkle the shredded taco blend cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let it stand for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
5
To serve, arrange the shredded lettuce around the edge of the skillet and top with chopped tomatoes in the center. If desired, offer sour cream on the side.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Beef Taco Rice Fiesta Skillet?
It is a vibrant one-dish meal that combines ground beef, taco seasoning, salsa, corn, and instant rice in a single skillet for an easy family dinner.
How long does it take to cook the ground beef?
The ground beef should be cooked over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it is thoroughly browned.
Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?
This recipe is designed specifically for uncooked instant rice. Using regular rice would require a longer cooking time and a different amount of liquid.
What type of cheese is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a shredded taco blend cheese, but you can also use cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Is this skillet dish spicy?
The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and the type of thick and chunky salsa you choose; you can use mild, medium, or hot varieties.
Can I add beans to this meal?
Yes, black beans or pinto beans would be a great addition to increase the protein and fiber content.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the Savory Beef Taco Rice Fiesta Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I do with the beef fat after browning?
It is recommended to drain any excess fat after browning the beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
How long should the rice sit before serving?
After removing the skillet from the heat, let it sit covered for 8 minutes to allow the rice to fully absorb the liquids.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent lean alternatives that work perfectly with these seasonings.
What toppings are best for this dish?
Shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and sour cream are the standard toppings, but avocado and cilantro also work well.
How do I fluff the rice?
After the 8-minute resting period, use a fork to gently stir and separate the rice grains before adding the cheese.
Can I make this recipe more colorful?
Adding chopped bell peppers or extra green onions can add more color and nutritional value to the skillet.
Is it necessary to boil the mixture?
Yes, bringing the water, salsa, and seasoning mixture to a boil is necessary to properly hydrate the instant rice.
What can I do with leftover taco rice?
Leftovers are fantastic when wrapped in a warm flour tortilla for a quick lunch burrito the next day.
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely, fresh whole kernel corn can be substituted for frozen corn without changing the cooking process.
How do I make the cheese melt quickly?
Sprinkle the cheese over the hot rice mixture and cover the skillet for 1 to 2 minutes to trap the heat and melt it.
What size skillet do I need?
A 10-inch skillet is the ideal size for this amount of ingredients.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Yes, you can use a homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder instead of a pre-packaged envelope.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the label of your taco seasoning and salsa to ensure there are no hidden gluten additives.
Can I substitute the water for something else?
Beef broth or chicken broth can be used instead of water to add even more depth of flavor to the rice.
What if my rice is still crunchy?
If the rice is still firm after 8 minutes, cover it and let it sit for another 2 to 3 minutes; you may need a splash more water if the mixture is too dry.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the familiar flavors of tacos and the soft texture of the rice make it a very popular choice for children.
Can I add jalapeños?
If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add diced fresh or pickled jalapeños during the simmering step.
How many people does this serve?
This recipe typically serves 4 to 6 people depending on the portion size.
Can I use brown instant rice?
Yes, you can use instant brown rice, but you may need to increase the resting time slightly according to the package directions.
What kind of salsa works best?
A thick and chunky style salsa is best as it adds texture and prevents the dish from becoming too watery.
Can I omit the corn?
Yes, if you do not like corn, you can leave it out or replace it with diced zucchini or bell peppers.
How do I reheat the dish without drying it out?
Add a small teaspoon of water before microwaving to create steam and keep the rice moist.