Taco Ranch Rice Skillet

If your evenings have felt completely chaotic lately, this Taco Ranch Rice Skillet is the kind of dinner that saves the day. Everything cooks together in one pan, it’s super filling, and it uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

This recipe is perfect for busy end-of-school nights when everyone is running in different directions but you still want a hot homemade dinner on the table. Plus, the leftovers are amazing for lunch the next day!

Prep Time 5 mins

Cook Time 35 mins

Total Time 40 mins

Cooking Method: Simmering

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 4

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

This Taco Ranch Rice Skillet is the perfect busy weeknight dinner! Made in one pan with ground beef, rice, black beans, corn, cheese, and ranch flavor, this easy budget-friendly recipe is filling, family-friendly, and perfect for hectic evenings.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 small onion, diced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups beef broth or chicken broth
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cup sour cream
2 tablespoons ranch dressing or ranch seasoning mixed with a little water
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
Green onions
Diced tomatoes
Avocado
Extra cheese
Tortilla strips
Jalapeños

Instructions

1
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
2
Stir in garlic and taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute.
3
Add uncooked rice and broth. Stir well.
4
Bring to a light boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.
5
Stir in black beans, corn, sour cream, ranch, and shredded cheese.
6
Cook another 2–3 minutes until creamy and melted.
7
Top with your favorite toppings and serve warm.

Note

Use rotisserie chicken instead of beef for a different version.
Add diced peppers if you have them on hand.
Pepper jack cheese gives this extra flavor.
Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Keywords: budgetfriendlymeals, easyweeknightdinner, onepandinner, familymeals, groundbeefrecipes, cheapdinnerideas, quickdinners, budgetfriendlykitchen, mealideas, easyrecipes, busyfamilymeals, tacoskillet

Read it online: https://budgetfriendlykitchen.com/recipe/taco-ranch-rice-skillet/

Taylor

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I’m Taylor-a busy mom of two, food blogger, and the heart behind Budget Friendly Kitchen. I’m passionate about creating simple, affordable meals for families and love spending time in the kitchen, trying new recipes, and making memories with my family.