Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

This Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you’re craving an easy meal that the entire family will love! It’s a one-pan wonder with simple ingredients and just 35 minutes to the table. A definite keeper!

Are you looking for more one-skillet meals? Try our Easy Rotel Pasta, or The best Chicken Fajitas.

If you’re planning to cook some delicious Mexican ground beef recipes for dinner tonight, you need to try this taco rice skillet recipe! It’s a great weeknight meal when you crave a speedy meal or a new twist on Taco Tuesday. 

I’m always on the lookout for easy one-skillet meals throughout the week. This quick dish is a hearty and cheesy Mexican delight, making it a perfect choice for taco night or any busy evening. Plus, if you end up with leftovers, simply store them in an airtight container for a delicious meal the following day. This recipe for ground beef and rice is a beloved family favorite that’s perfect for dinner tonight!

Recipe Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make this amazing MEXICAN SKILLET:

INGREDIENT NOTES:

• Rice: Long grain white rice works best for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors. Brown rice can be used for a healthier option, but it may require additional cooking time.
• Broth: Beef broth adds depth, but chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted if need be.

HOW TO MAKE MEXICAN RICE AND BEEF SKILLET: STEP-BY-STEP

STEP 1: Cook the Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and bell pepper. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess grease.

STEP 2: Add Rice and Seasonings: Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper..

STEP 3: Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer until the rice is cooked, which should take about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

STEP 4: Mix in the Corn & Beans: Once the rice is tender, stir in the frozen corn, and beans; cook until it’s heated through.

STEP 5: Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar and Colby Jack cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to let the cheese melt

STEP 6: Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish your delicious one-pot meal with chopped fresh cilantro before serving..

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3 days.

Reheating: When reheating, a great way is to add a splash of water or broth to loosen if dry. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until thoroughly warmed.

Freezing: Cool it to room temperature, then place it in freezer-safe containers or freezer Ziploc bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months. For reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then microwave or warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if dry, until heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Additions & Substitutions

ADDITIONS:

• Vegetables: Add diced carrots, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition and color.
• Spices: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Herbs: Fresh basil or oregano can add a fresh, aromatic touch.

SUBSTITUTIONS:

• Beef: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Rice: Replace white rice with quinoa for added protein or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
• Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor.
• Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

FAQs about this Beef and Rice Skillet:

Can I use different types of rice?

Yes, you can substitute white rice with brown rice, but note that brown rice will require an additional ½ cup of broth or water due to its longer cooking time.

What if I want to use a different meat?

You can easily swap ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

What are some good toppings for this dish?

Garnish with shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, sour cream, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.

What Can I Serve with this Mexican Beef n Rice Skillet?

Serve with a side salad, warm tortillas, and your favorite salsa or guacamole for a totally satisfying meal.

Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

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Whip up a fiesta in your kitchen with this Mexican Beef & Rice Skillet! Each bite is a blend of seasoned beef, hearty rice, and beans, all topped with melty cheese.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course 30 minutes meals, dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 418 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large skillet

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion chopped
• 1 bell pepper chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 8 ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• Fresh cilantro chopped for garnish

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with onions, and bell pepper unOl beef is brown. Drain any excess grease.
• Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer until the rice is cooked through, which typically takes about 20 minutes. You might need to sOr occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Once the rice is tender, stir in the frozen corn. Cook until the corn is heated through.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheeses over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet for a few minutes to let the cheeses melt.
• Finally, garnish your dish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 418kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 26gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 997mgPotassium: 624mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1627IUVitamin C: 44mgCalcium: 147mgIron: 3mg

Keyword 30 minute meals, beef, gluten free, ground beef, mexican, one-pot meal, rice

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