This Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner is a one-pan meal that’s sure to please! Packed with tasty ground beef, rice, and colorful veggies, it’s a fiesta in a dish.
What I love most is how quick it comes together. Just cook, stir, and enjoy! Plus, it makes cleaning up a breeze—no one likes doing dishes, right? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the star here, providing rich flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, swap in black beans or lentils for protein.
Onion and Bell Pepper: I recommend yellow onion for its sweetness. You can also use red onion or shallots if that’s what you have! Any bell pepper works, but a red or yellow one will add a nice sweetness.
Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought taco seasoning for convenience. However, if you want to control the spice level, making your own is easy with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is traditional here, but you can use brown rice for a heartier dish. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary, so follow package instructions.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll get it right! First, make sure you have enough liquid. For every cup of rice, you need about 1.5 to 2 cups of liquid. In this recipe, we’re using beef broth and tomatoes for flavor!
- After adding the rice and liquids, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet with a lid to keep the steam in, which helps the rice cook evenly.
- Check the rice after 18 minutes. If it’s still firm and there’s liquid left, cook a little longer but keep it covered.
Letting the rice sit off the heat for a few minutes after cooking helps it fluff up, too!
Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or about 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream or avocado slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of 40 minutes to get this scrumptious dinner on the table. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
2. Add the Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it; garlic can turn quickly!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
4. Season the Mixture:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture and stir well to combine everything. The seasoning adds fantastic flavor!
5. Add Rice and Liquids:
Next, it’s time to add the rice! Stir in the uncooked rice, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, and frozen corn. Make sure everything is well combined.
6. Cook the Rice:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook properly and absorb all the yummy flavors!
7. Melt the Cheese (Optional):
Once the rice is tender and the liquid has absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet again for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Lastly, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it up hot with sour cream or avocado slices if you like. Enjoy your flavorful and easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner!
Delicious meals don’t have to be complicated, and this one proves just that! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires more cooking time and more liquid. Generally, brown rice needs about 40-45 minutes to cook. You may want to adjust the broth amount accordingly to ensure it cooks properly.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well and will yield a lighter dish. For a vegetarian option, try using black beans, lentils, or crumbled tempeh to maintain a good protein content.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to help revive the flavors if it thickens too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use a microwave. Add a bit of water or broth if it seems dry when reheating.
