The Best Taco Rice

This Taco Rice is a perfect combination of fluffy, flavorful rice, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that is quick, easy, and packed with bold Mexican flavors. Whether served as a main dish or as a side for tacos, burritos, or fajitas, this one-pot meal is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Rice:

• 1 cup white rice (long-grain or jasmine)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cumin

For the Taco Meat:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade, see below)
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup diced tomatoes (or salsa)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ½ cup diced green onions
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
• ½ avocado, diced (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add rice, salt, and cumin, stirring for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in beef broth (or water) and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Taco Meat

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Drain any excess grease and stir in taco seasoning, water, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the meat is fully coated in seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble the Taco Rice

1. In a large bowl or serving dish, mix the cooked rice with the seasoned taco meat.
2. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the warm rice.
3. Top with diced tomatoes, cilantro, green onions, and avocado.
4. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or extra salsa!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tortillas for taco-style rice wraps.
Pair with refried beans or black beans for extra protein.
Drizzle with guacamole or avocado crema for extra creaminess.

Tips for the Best Taco Rice

✔ Use Freshly Cooked Rice – This keeps the texture fluffy.
✔ Make It Spicy – Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
✔ Customize the Meat – Try ground chicken or chorizo for a twist.
✔ Store Leftovers – Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheat in a skillet.

Conclusion

This Taco Rice is cheesy, hearty, and bursting with Mexican flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!

Would you like a vegetarian version or a low-carb option? 😊