Hamburger Meat Taco Rice Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat Taco Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound hamburger meat; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 cup chopped lettuce; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 avocado, diced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rushed & Ready

I absolutely love making this Hamburger Meat Taco Rice Skillet! It's a one-pan wonder that combines the flavors of tacos with hearty rice, making it both satisfying and delicious. We often enjoy it on busy weeknights, as it comes together in a flash. The best part is that you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings and seasonings. This dish is perfect for those looking to spice up their dinner routine and keep things simple without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:54:35.642Z

When I first experimented with this dish, I was amazed at how well the flavors meld together. The combination of seasoned hamburger meat with rice creates a hearty base that really satisfies hunger. My family could not get enough of it!

To elevate the dish, I recommend using a mix of fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro, which adds a fresh taste and vibrant color. Cooking everything in one skillet not only saves time but also makes clean-up a breeze, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones around the dinner table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory taco flavors in every bite
Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Unlock the Flavor

The combination of diced tomatoes with green chilies adds a zesty kick to the Hamburger Meat Taco Rice Skillet. The acidity from the tomatoes helps in balancing the richness of the hamburger meat, while the chilies bring a slight heat that makes each bite exciting. If you want to enhance this further, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers when browning the meat for an added layer of flavor.

Using quality taco seasoning is crucial for the depth of flavor in this dish. I recommend going for a blend with a balance of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also make your own mix to control the spice level. This way, you can adjust the heat according to your preference, ensuring the dish is perfectly tailored to your palate.

Perfecting the Rice

Cooking the rice in beef broth instead of water infuses a rich flavor that complements the taco seasoning and makes the entire dish more robust. It’s key to ensure that the rice is fully submerged in the broth when simmering, as this prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking. Keep an eye on it, and if it seems too dry during cooking, you can add a touch more broth or water to maintain the moisture.

If you prefer brown rice for its health benefits, be aware that it requires a longer cooking time—approximately 35 to 40 minutes. Adjust the liquid ratio, too, using about 2 1/4 cups of broth for each cup of brown rice to account for its slower absorption. This adjustment will help you achieve the perfect texture without compromising the flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Hamburger Meat Taco Rice Skillet holds up beautifully for leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use medium heat on the stovetop and add a splash of beef broth or water to keep the rice moist—just stir occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it, covering the dish to help retain moisture during reheating.

For serving, I like to set up a toppings bar with the shredded cheese, lettuce, sour cream, and diced avocado on the side. This allows everyone to customize their dish to their liking. You can also sprinkle fresh cilantro or jalapeños for those who appreciate an extra kick. If you want to make this dish even more festive, consider adding some tortilla chips for a crunchy side!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound hamburger meat
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheese
1 cup chopped lettuce
1/2 cup sour cream
1 avocado, diced
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the toppings according to your preference!

Steps

Brown the Hamburger Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the hamburger meat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Rice and Seasoning

Stir in the uncooked rice, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Finish with Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover until melted.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with lettuce, sour cream, and diced avocado.

Enjoy your delicious skillet meal!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try incorporating jalapeños or spicy salsa into the mixture.

Key Technique Tips

When browning the hamburger meat, be sure to break it apart using a spatula. This ensures that it cooks evenly and develops a nice color. If there are any clumps, they won't absorb the seasoning and may lead to uneven flavor. Aim for a browned texture before adding the other ingredients, as this will deepen the flavor profile of the entire dish.

Maintaining the correct simmering temperature is essential. Too high, and your rice will cook unevenly or dry out; too low, and it may become mushy. Aim for a gentle simmer where you see slight bubbles, and remember to keep the skillet covered to trap steam, which helps cook the rice efficiently.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe, ground turkey or chicken can serve as fantastic substitutes for hamburger meat. Just ensure to cook it to the same color as you would the beef for depth of flavor. Keep in mind that turkey may require a little extra seasoning due to its milder flavor. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a nice depth.

For a vegetarian option, swap the meat with black beans or lentils. Cook them just long enough to meld with the other ingredients, and you’ll get a hearty, protein-packed dish without losing the taco essence. You can also replace beef broth with vegetable broth to maintain the flavors without meat.

Variations to Try

Feel free to mix in other vegetables that you have on hand. Corn, diced zucchini, or even spinach can add color and nutrition without compromising the flavor. Just be mindful of their water content; if adding high-water vegetables, reduce the broth slightly to avoid a soupy consistency.

For a Mexican-inspired twist, you could sprinkle some lime juice over the dish just before serving. This added brightness can enhance the overall experience. Or try incorporating different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for some spice, or cotija for a tangy finish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, just adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace hamburger meat with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this skillet dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.