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Easy One-Skillet Ground Beef and Rice Taco Bowl

one-skillet ground beef and rice taco bowl - featured image

A quick and easy one-skillet recipe combining seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice with taco flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 cup (190 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth, low-sodium preferred
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream, lime juice

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  2. Add 1 lb ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Push beef to one side of the skillet. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the empty side and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons taco seasoning and 2 tablespoons tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
  5. Add 1 cup rinsed long-grain white rice and stir to coat with the beef and seasoning mixture.
  6. Pour in 2 cups beef broth, stir once, and bring to a low boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Remove skillet from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff rice and beef mixture gently with a fork.
  9. If liquid remains, cook uncovered on low heat for a few more minutes.
  10. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with optional toppings like diced avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Notes

Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam for perfectly cooked rice. Avoid stirring the rice while it simmers to prevent mushiness. If the bottom starts to stick, lower the heat or add a splash more broth. For gluten-free, ensure taco seasoning is gluten-free. Optional toppings add freshness and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef, rice, taco bowl, one skillet, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, taco seasoning