This Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal bursting with flavor! It features ground beef, rice, and zesty spices that tickle your taste buds!
I love how everything cooks together in just one skillet. No extra dishes to wash! Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when I’m too tired to fuss over dinner. Just mix, simmer, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein for the dish. If you prefer leaner options, ground turkey or chicken works too. For a vegetarian twist, try black beans or lentils!
Rice: Long grain white rice is used here, but you can substitute with brown rice or quinoa for added nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time as brown rice may require more liquid!
Diced Tomatoes: I love using diced tomatoes with green chilies like Rotel since they add extra flavor. If you can’t find those, regular diced tomatoes can work. Just add a bit of hot sauce if you want that kick!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is optional, but it adds a comforting touch. Feel free to swap it for Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy!
How Do I Get the Meat to Brown Perfectly?
Getting your ground beef to brown nicely is key to building flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps it sear instead of steam.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If necessary, cook the beef in batches.
- Let it sit for a minute before stirring. This allows a nice brown crust to form.
Taking these simple steps will give your beef a deeper, richer flavor!
Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 3/4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. So, you can have this meal ready in just 40 minutes—perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they’re softened, which will take about 3-4 minutes. This gets those aromatics going!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds. You want it fragrant but not burnt, so keep an eye on it!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any extra fat, feel free to drain it!
4. Season the Mixture:
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook everything together for about 1 minute to let the spices toast a bit.
5. Add Rice:
Time to add the uncooked rice! Stir it into the beef and vegetable mixture until everything is well combined.
6. Pour in Liquids:
Now, pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and the beef broth (or water). Stir this mixture well and bring it to a boil—a little bubbling is good!
7. Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. You want the rice to be tender and absorb most of the liquid. Just let it do its thing!
8. Add Cheese:
Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the top now, cover again, and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes to melt.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing. Enjoy your flavorful and easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and takes about 40-45 minutes to cook. Just check the instructions on the rice package for the exact ratios.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes that are slightly leaner. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a similar texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like it spicier, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef. You can also stir in some hot sauce just before serving for an extra kick!