Looking for a fresh twist on your beloved taco night? This taco rice recipe combines everything you adore about tacos—spiced ground beef, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese—with fluffy rice for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this Mexican taco rice recipe is sure to steal the spotlight. Let’s dive into this savory, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of Tex-Mex flavors!
Taco Rice Recipe
Cuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes25
minutes430
kcalThis taco rice recipe blends seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and classic taco toppings for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup salsa
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, hot sauce
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and corn. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked rice and salsa, mixing well. Let everything heat through for about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Let it melt slightly before serving.
- Garnish with shredded lettuce, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped cilantro. Add any extra toppings you like!
- Serve hot and enjoy with tortilla chips or warm tortillas on the side.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, use day-old rice—it soaks up the spices better than freshly cooked rice.
- If you want a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with black beans or crumbled tofu.
- To make it spicier, add extra jalapeños or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Tips for perfect Taco Rice
- Layer the toppings: Adding the cheese while the rice is hot allows it to melt perfectly, while the cool sour cream and fresh lettuce provide a nice contrast.
- For a crunchy texture, add crushed tortilla chips as a topping.
- Leftover taco rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—it tastes even better the next day!
Recipe Variants
- Chicken Taco Rice: Replace ground beef with diced chicken breast and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Seafood Taco Rice: Use cooked shrimp and add a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing twist.
- Vegetarian Taco Rice: Replace meat with a mix of black beans, pinto beans, and bell peppers for a hearty meatless meal.
FAQ
Yes! Brown rice adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the skillet.
Let the taco rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Absolutely! You can add chili flakes, hot sauce, or extra diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Serve with guacamole, fresh pico de gallo, or a side of Mexican corn salad for a complete Tex-Mex feast!
For another delicious layered dish, check out our Taco Lasagna Recipe that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
This taco rice recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Combining the hearty flavors of taco fillings with the satisfying texture of fluffy rice, it’s sure to be a hit at your next family dinner. Quick, easy, and endlessly customizable, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to comfort food!
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