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This is my high protein One Pan Mexican Taco Rice cheesy, comforting and packed with bold, smoky flavour. Everything cooks together in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or batch cooking for the week ahead.
Spiced lean beef, fluffy rice and melted lighter cheese all finished with lime and fresh coriander it’s a proper midweek winner.
Why you'll love this recipe
- High-protein and under 500 calories
- Cheesy, comforting Mexican-style flavours
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Budget-friendly and family-friendly
This is one of those reliable midweek dinners that delivers every time. The rice absorbs all the taco-spiced beef flavour as it cooks, creating a rich, comforting base, while the melted cheese brings that satisfying finish.

One Pan Mexican Beef Taco Rice
10 minutes
25 mins
4
One Pan • High Protein • Midweek Dinner
Mexican Inspired
Delicious Mexican Beef Taco Rice Recipe
Ingredients
2 red chillies, finely sliced
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
500g 5% lean beef mince
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 tsp olive oil
150g dry basmati rice
500ml beef stock
60g lighter cheese
Salt & pepper
Instructions
Build the base
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion and cook until softened. Stir in the peppers, chillies and half the taco seasoning and cook for 5 minutes.Cook the beef
Add the lean beef mince and the remaining taco seasoning. Season well and cook for 10 minutes until browned.Add the rice
Stir in the rice, coating it in the beef mixture.Simmer
Pour in the beef stock, ensuring the rice is fully covered. Reduce to low heat, cover with a lid and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.Finish with cheese
Sprinkle over the lighter cheese, cover briefly to melt, and serve with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime.
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THE FULL MACROS READY FOR YOU
CALORIES | 485
UNDER 500 CALORIES PER SERVING
PROTEIN | 36G
OVER 36G PROTEIN PER SERVING
CARBS | 55G
UNDER 60G CARBS PER SERVING
FAT | 14G
UNDER 15G FAT PER SERVING
FIBRE | 5G
OVER 5G FIBRE PER SERVING
High-protein, balanced and satisfying a perfect one-pan comfort meal.
Why choose this One Pan Mexican Beef Taco Rice Recipe?
HIGH PROTEIN RECIPE
EASY TO COOK IN ONE PAN
THE PERFECT COMFORT FOOD AFTER A LONG DAY
UNDER 500 CALORIES
Swaps & Upgrades
Add black beans for extra fibre
Swap beef for turkey mince
Make it spicier with extra chilli flakes
Add sweetcorn for texture
Use brown rice (increase cooking time + liquid)
Top with avocado or Greek yoghurt
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?
Yes, but increase cooking time and stock slightly.
Can I meal prep this?
Absolutely — it keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Can I freeze taco rice?
Yes freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Is this recipe spicy?
Medium heat adjust chillies to suit your preference.
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