Cheesy Fiesta Taco Rice

Here’s everything you need to whip up this delightful dish:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked, rinsed)
• 1½ cups chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 10 oz can Rotel (with juices)
• 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 10 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 10 oz can corn (drained)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp dried cilantro
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Sour cream (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro (for topping)
• Pico de gallo (for topping)
• Taco sauce (for topping)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your cheesy fiesta:

• Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, dried cilantro, and chopped onion. Stir and cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain off any extra grease.
• Step 2: Add in the minced garlic, Rotel (with its juices), tomato sauce, corn, black beans, broth, and rinsed rice. Stir everything together until well combined.
• Step 3: Cover the skillet and let it simmer on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender. Stir halfway through to prevent anything from sticking.
• Step 4: Mix in a portion of the shredded Colby Jack cheese and sprinkle the rest on top. Cover until melted or pop it under the broiler for a golden finish.
• Step 5: Serve it in bowls and add your favorite toppings like sour cream, taco sauce, fresh cilantro, and pico de gallo. For an extra crunch, toss on some tortilla chips!

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Fiesta Taco Rice

Enhance your cooking experience with these tips:

• Use lean ground beef (at least 80% lean) to cut down on grease while still providing enough flavor.
• Experiment with the spices and toppings to personalize the taste that best fits your family’s preferences.
• Make it vegetarian by substituting ground beef with quinoa or a plant-based meat alternative.
• For an added kick, consider including jalapeños or hot sauce to your mix.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and easily reheated, making for a perfect meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
• Answer: Yes! Just note that brown rice typically requires longer cooking time. Adjust your broth and simmer time accordingly.
• Question 2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Answer: Absolutely. Make it up to Step 3, let it cool, and refrigerate it for up to three days. Reheat before serving.
• Question 3: What can I substitute for ground beef?
• Answer: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Question 4: Is it possible to freeze Cheesy Fiesta Taco Rice?
• Answer: Yes, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
• Question 5: What toppings work best for this dish?
• Answer: Traditional toppings such as sour cream, fresh cilantro, guacamole, pico de gallo, or sliced jalapeños enhance the flavors nicely!

Conclusion

Cheesy Fiesta Taco Rice is not only a flavorful and comforting dish but also an efficient one-pan meal that satisfies everyone at the table. It’s easy to customize, making it versatile for different diets and preferences. Give it a try, and watch as it quickly becomes a staple dish in your meal rotation!