Ground Beef And Rice Taco Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Taco Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned; 1 cup shredded cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Plates

I absolutely love cooking meals that are not only easy to prepare but also bring everyone to the table. This Ground Beef and Rice Taco Bake is one of those delightful dishes that helps us reconnect over a comforting meal. With its savory flavors and enticing aroma, the entire family gathers in anticipation. The combination of ground beef, rice, and all those taco spices creates a truly mouthwatering experience that satisfies our cravings for something hearty and fulfilling.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-27T12:45:36.546Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Rice Taco Bake, I was looking for a dish that could easily feed my family without taking hours in the kitchen. This recipe struck the right balance; it utilizes everyday ingredients and can be thrown together in no time. One tip I always follow is to allow the spices to bloom in the hot oil before adding any other components, which really brings out their flavors.

This has become a weeknight favorite at our home. The cheese topping creates a perfectly golden crust that adds a delightful texture. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy days when cooking might not be on the agenda.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty combination of beef and rice in every bite
Flavorful taco seasoning elevates the simple ingredients
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings

      

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The ground beef forms the hearty base of this dish, providing protein and a rich flavor that sets the foundation. Using lean ground beef helps keep the dish from being too greasy, while still ensuring a savory depth. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken can also be substituted without sacrificing taste.

Rice acts as the perfect companion to the beef, absorbing all the flavorful juices from the broth and spices during cooking. It’s important to choose long-grain rice, as it remains fluffy rather than sticky when done. Short-grain varieties may clump together, which could alter the texture you want for this taco bake.

Customization and Serving Suggestions

One of the best features of this taco bake is its versatility. You can experiment with a variety of toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess and an extra kick. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with an equal amount of sautéed mushrooms or textured vegetable protein to maintain a hearty texture.

When serving, present it straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-style meal. Pair it with a fresh side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. Leftovers make for an easy lunch the next day, and you can simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Ingredients

For the Taco Bake

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
1 cup shredded cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary, then add taco seasoning and mix well. Pour in beef broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Cook Rice

Stir in the uncooked rice, black beans, and corn. Cover the skillet and reduce heat, allowing it to cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rice is cooked, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Rice Taco Bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as avocado, sour cream, or diced tomatoes to enhance the flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef and Rice Taco Bake can easily be made ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Prepare the mixture up to the assembly point, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge to ensure that it's heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This not only helps you save time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully before you dig in.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice that the rice has not fully absorbed the liquid after the suggested cooking time, it might need a bit more time on the stove. Just check periodically and add more broth if necessary, ensuring the mixture doesn't dry out. This is especially common when using brown rice, which may require a longer cooking time compared to white rice.

Also, if your cheese is not melting as expected during baking, it could be due to the type of cheese used. Opt for a cheese that melts well, like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend, and consider broiling for a few minutes at the end for that perfect bubbly, golden finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you're looking for a leaner option.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What side dishes pair well with this taco bake?

A fresh green salad or some tortilla chips with salsa would complement the flavors beautifully.