Cheesy Taco Rice Skillet (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Seasoned Ground Beef

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - ½ teaspoon salt
03 - ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
04 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
05 - 2 teaspoons chili powder
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
08 - 1 medium onion, diced
09 - 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

→ Rice & Sauce Base

10 - 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with chilies
11 - 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
12 - 1½ cups beef broth
13 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
14 - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

→ Fresh Pico de Gallo

15 - 4 small tomatoes, diced
16 - ½ medium onion, finely diced
17 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
18 - ½ bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
19 - 2 limes, juiced
20 - Salt and pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Dice the tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño. In a bowl, combine with chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to serve - this can be made ahead of time.
02 - In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, cayenne, chili powder, cumin, and dried cilantro.
03 - Add the diced onion to the beef and cook until the beef is cooked through and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
04 - Add the Rotel, tomato sauce, minced garlic, beef broth, and uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
05 - Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
06 - Remove from heat and top with the shredded cheddar cheese. Either let it melt from the residual heat or place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
07 - Serve immediately topped with the fresh pico de gallo and tortilla chips on the side. Enjoy this complete one-pan taco dinner!

# Notes:

01 - This is a complete one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknight dinners
02 - The pico de gallo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator
03 - Make sure to stir occasionally while the rice cooks to prevent sticking
04 - Serve with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or sour cream for extra toppings