Next Level Cheesy Taco Rice

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10)
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 2 cups Beef Broth
• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice, uncooked
• 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded
• Optional for garnish: Fresh cilantro, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced avocado, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.

2. 2

   Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until it's no longer pink.

3. 3

   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. 4

   Carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet and return it to the heat.

5. 5

   Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir constantly for about 60 seconds to toast the spices.

6. 6

   Pour in the undrained can of diced tomatoes with green chiles and the beef broth. Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

7. 7

   Bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, ensuring it is fully submerged.

8. 8

   Once the mixture returns to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for 15-18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.

9. 9

   Remove the skillet from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 5 more minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming.

10. 10

    Uncover the skillet and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

11. 11

    Sprinkle the freshly shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place the lid back on for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and gooey.

12. 12

    For a bubbly, golden-brown top, you can place the oven-safe skillet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching it closely.

13. 13

    Serve immediately, topped with your favorite garnishes like cilantro, sour cream, or avocado.