Ultimate Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal
Looking for a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dinner idea? This Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet brings together all the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine in a single pan. Packed with seasoned beef, tender rice, and fresh veggies, this dish is ideal for weeknights when you want a hearty meal without much cleanup. Let’s get cooking and create a delicious meal that’s perfect for the whole family!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Mexican Dinner: With everything cooked in a single skillet, this recipe keeps cleanup minimal.
- Bold Flavors: Each ingredient adds a layer of flavor, giving you an exciting dish in every bite.
- Versatile and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, and the spice level can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious one-skillet meal:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Bell pepper, chopped | 1 large |
| Fresh garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Canned diced tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
| White or brown rice | 1 cup (uncooked) |
| Black beans | 1 can, drained (optional) |
| Corn | 1 cup (optional) |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Shredded cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh cilantro | For garnish |
| Sliced jalapeños | Optional garnish |
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a satisfying Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet:
- Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, using a spatula to crumble it into small pieces as it cooks. Stir until the beef is completely browned, then carefully drain off any excess fat.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables, stirring frequently, until they are softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
- Season It Up: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables evenly, allowing the spices to infuse the mixture.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, letting it mix thoroughly with the seasoned beef and vegetables. This step helps the rice absorb all the delicious flavors before adding liquid.
- Pour in Tomatoes and Broth: Add the canned diced tomatoes (along with their juice) and the beef broth. Stir the mixture well to ensure everything is combined. Increase the heat slightly and bring it to a gentle boil.
- Simmer to Perfection: Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
- Final Additions: If you’re using black beans or corn, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking, giving them just enough time to warm up without becoming mushy.
- Cheesy Topping: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully over the beef and rice.
- Serve and Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and add jalapeño slices if you enjoy a bit of spice. Serve straight from the skillet for a simple, crowd-pleasing meal.
Tips for Making This Dish
- Adjust Spice Level: If you want more heat, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and skip the jalapeños.
- Rice Consistency: To ensure the rice cooks evenly, keep the skillet covered and only lift the lid to stir occasionally.
- Make It Creamy: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or avocado slices on top for added richness. Easy Mexican Skillet Recipe
Health Benefits of This Dish
- High-Protein Meal: The ground beef provides ample protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
- Nutrient-Rich: Vegetables and beans add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health.
- Great for Meal Prep: This dish keeps well, making it a great option for leftovers or meal prepping.
Recipe Variations
Looking to make this dish your own? Here are a few easy variations:
- Use Ground Turkey: Swap beef for ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
- Make it Vegetarian: Replace the beef with more beans or plant-based crumbles for a meatless version.
- Top with Fresh Ingredients: Try adding diced avocado, green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store leftovers?
This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
What’s the best way to reheat it?
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or use the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the rice seems dry.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What goes well with this dish?
Serve with tortilla chips, a side salad, or guacamole for a complete meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is an easy, delicious, and customizable meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With just one pan and minimal effort, you’ll have a flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Try it tonight and enjoy the simplicity and taste of this one-pan recipe!
