Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

Every time I make Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet, it transports me to the vibrant streets of Mexico, where the aroma of spices fills the air. I remember the first time I tried a similar dish at a family gathering; the flavors danced in my mouth, and I knew I had to recreate that magic at home. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, not only because it’s incredibly delicious but also because it brings everyone together around the table. The combination of hearty ingredients like ground beef, rice, and a medley of spices creates a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

As the skillet sizzles away on the stove, the anticipation builds. The colors of the vegetables and the rich aroma of taco seasoning wafting through the kitchen make it impossible to resist. I love how versatile this dish is; you can throw in any leftover veggies you have, making it a perfect option for using up what’s in your fridge. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend get-together, this dish never disappoints. The moment you take the first bite, the delightful flavors of the Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet will leave you craving for more. It’s truly a recipe that I cherish and one that I hope will become a favorite in your home as well. Let’s dive into why this dish stands out and what you need to create it!

What You Need for Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

When it comes to cooking, I believe that the right ingredients can make or break a dish. In the case of Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet, the ingredients coalesce beautifully, creating a comforting and hearty meal. The key players in this recipe are ground beef, jasmine rice, and a mix of spices that come together to create a burst of flavors that are distinctly Mexican.

• 1 Tbsp olive oil: This is used to sauté the beef and vegetables, adding a rich base flavor.
• 1 lb ground beef: The star of the dish, providing protein and a wonderful meaty flavor. It’s best to use a blend with a bit of fat for enhanced taste.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile when sautéed.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: The aromatic addition that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 4 tbsp taco seasoning: This spice blend is essential for that authentic Mexican flavor.
• ½ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 10 oz can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilis: Adds acidity and a touch of heat, making the dish vibrant.
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides additional protein and fiber, making the dish more filling.
• 1 cup corn, rinsed (frozen or canned): Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
• ¾ cup jasmine rice, rinsed and drained: The perfect grain that cooks up fluffy and pairs well with the other ingredients.
• 2 cups slow-sodium chicken stock: A flavorful base that helps cook the rice while adding depth.
• 2 cups Mexican cheese (Colby jack or equal parts mozzarella and cheddar): The melty topping that brings everything together in a delicious way.

Making This Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

Creating Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is a straightforward process that anyone can master. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, which allows the flavors to shine. Let’s walk through the steps to bring this delightful dish to life!

1. Start by heating 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will help to create a nice base for the dish. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add the ground beef. Sauté the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 3 minutes. You want to see that beautiful brown color developing! Make sure to keep stirring to ensure even cooking.
2. Next, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial, as the onion will add sweetness and depth to the dish. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
3. Once the onion is softened, it’s time to add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that delicious garlicky goodness filling the air!
4. Now, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and give everything a good stir to combine. This will coat the meat and vegetables with those lovely spices, infusing the mixture with vibrant flavors.
5. Add the Rotel tomatoes along with their juices, the drained and rinsed black beans, corn, and the rinsed jasmine rice. Stir everything together until well combined. You want to see those colorful ingredients mingling together.
6. Pour in the slow-sodium chicken stock and sprinkle with fine sea salt before bringing the mixture to a light boil. The stock is essential as it will help cook the rice and create a delicious sauce. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
7. Cover the skillet with a tightly fitting lid and let it simmer on low for 15 minutes, or until the rice is nicely cooked. You can check periodically to ensure everything is cooking evenly.
8. When the rice is tender and the liquid has been mostly absorbed, turn off the heat. Open the lid, and sprinkle the Mexican cheese over the top. Cover again and let it rest for about 5 minutes until the cheese is all melted and gooey.
9. Finally, garnish with cilantro or your favorite taco toppings and serve immediately! The melted cheese will be deliciously stringy, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to make Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet your own, here are some creative ways to adapt this recipe. From ingredient swaps to exciting pairings, these tips will help you customize your meal to suit your taste!

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream to add some creaminess to the dish.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute ground beef with mushrooms or tofu, and add more veggies to create a hearty vegetarian version.
• Taco toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy kick: For those who like it hot, add fresh chopped chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
• Cheese varieties: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! Try a blend of pepper jack and cheddar for a spicy twist.

What to Pair With Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

Pairing the right sides with your Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas that complement the flavors and make for a delicious meal:

• Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light lime vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is a classic pairing, adding richness and texture that balances the dish.
• Salsa: Serve with a side of salsa for added flavor. Homemade or store-bought, it will bring extra zest.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: For those who can’t get enough rice, cilantro lime rice makes a perfect pairing with its zesty flavor.
• Chips: Corn tortilla chips can add a crunchy element that’s delightful alongside the skillet.
• Dessert: Finish your meal off with a light dessert like flan or churros for a complete Mexican experience.
• Occasions: This dish is great for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even potlucks. It’s easy to make a large batch!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is truly a dish that combines ease, flavor, and comfort all in one. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and delicious. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and see just how wonderful it can be in your kitchen. Trust me, it’s a recipe that will become a favorite in your home!

Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

The ultimate comfort food, Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet combines hearty beef, fluffy rice, and vibrant spices for a dish that satisfies every craving. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this one-pan wonder will make your taste buds sing and keep you coming back for seconds.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 7 minutes mins

Cook Time 23 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef 80/20 or 85/15
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 4 Tbsp taco seasoning
• ½ tsp fine sea salt or to taste
• 10 oz can Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilis (Original)
• 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn rinsed-frozen or canned
• ¾ cup jasmine rice rinsed and drained
• 2 cups slow-sodium chicken stock
• 2 cups Mexican cheese Colby jack, or equal parts mozzarella and cheddar

Instructions

 

• Start by heating 1 Tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will help to create a nice base for the dish. Once the oil is shimmering, it's time to add the ground beef. Sauté the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 3 minutes. You want to see that beautiful brown color developing! Make sure to keep stirring to ensure even cooking.
• Next, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial, as the onion will add sweetness and depth to the dish. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
• Once the onion is softened, it's time to add the minced garlic. Cook it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell that delicious garlicky goodness filling the air!
• Now, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and give everything a good stir to combine. This will coat the meat and vegetables with those lovely spices, infusing the mixture with vibrant flavors.
• Add the Rotel tomatoes along with their juices, the drained and rinsed black beans, corn, and the rinsed jasmine rice. Stir everything together until well combined. You want to see those colorful ingredients mingling together.
• Pour in the slow-sodium chicken stock and sprinkle with fine sea salt before bringing the mixture to a light boil. The stock is essential as it will help cook the rice and create a delicious sauce. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
• Cover the skillet with a tightly fitting lid and let it simmer on low for 15 minutes, or until the rice is nicely cooked. You can check periodically to ensure everything is cooking evenly.
• When the rice is tender and the liquid has been mostly absorbed, turn off the heat. Open the lid, and sprinkle the Mexican cheese over the top. Cover again and let it rest for about 5 minutes until the cheese is all melted and gooey.
• Finally, garnish with cilantro or your favorite taco toppings and serve immediately! The melted cheese will be deliciously stringy, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or microwave.
• Tip 2: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Tip 3: Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream to add some creaminess to the dish.
• Tip 4: Substitute ground beef with mushrooms or tofu, and add more veggies to create a hearty vegetarian version.
• Tip 5: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor and texture.

Keyword easy beef and rice, Mexican beef skillet, one-pan Mexican meal, Quick Dinner Recipe

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!