Where Did Taco Rice Originate?

Taco rice, or Tako Raisu , originated in Okinawa, Japan , in the 1980s . It was developed for American military personnel stationed there. The dish blended seasoned ground beef with white rice , creating a fusion of Japanese and Tex-Mex flavors .

What Culture is Cheesy Rice From?

Cheesy rice is not traditional to one culture , but it appears in Tex-Mex, Southern American, and Italian cuisines . The fusion of melted cheese and seasoned rice makes it a popular comfort food worldwide.

Do People Put Rice in Tacos?

While traditional Mexican tacos do not typically include rice, Tex-Mex burritos and bowls often do. Cheesy taco rice reimagines the dish by making rice the centerpiece instead of a side ingredient.

How Do You Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days . Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months . Reheat: Microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.

Can I Make It Vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the meat with: Black Beans or Pinto Beans Lentils or Quinoa Mushrooms or Soy-Based Crumbles

What Cheese Works Best?

Sharp Cheddar: Classic, bold flavor. Monterey Jack: Creamy and mild. Pepper Jack: Adds a spicy kick. Mexican Blend: Convenient and pre-shredded.

Can I Cook It in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Here’s how: Brown the ground beef in a skillet first . Transfer to a slow cooker and add rice, tomatoes, taco seasoning, and broth . Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours . Stir in cheese before serving .

Cheesy Taco Rice Recipe: Quick, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Name: Cheesy Taco Rice: The Ultimate One-Pan Comfort Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked); 1 ½ cups beef broth; 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese); ½ cup frozen corn (optional); ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish); Sour cream, salsa, or avocado (for serving, optional)

Description

Cheesy Taco Rice is a quick and delicious one-pan meal packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors. This dish combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and zesty taco seasonings for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and is a family favorite! Serve it as a main dish or as a filling for burritos and tacos.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
½ cup frozen corn (optional)
½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Sour cream, salsa, or avocado (for serving, optional)

Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Add Rice & Seasonings: Stir in the uncooked rice, taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it toast for 1 minute.
Add Liquids & Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
Add Cheese & Optional Ingredients: Once the rice is tender, stir in the frozen corn and black beans (if using). Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover with a lid, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with sour cream, salsa, or avocado slices if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: ~400 kcal
Fat: ~18g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Protein: ~25g