This Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Full of ground beef, fluffy rice, and zesty spices, it’s tasty and super quick to whip up on a busy night.
You’ll love how everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s perfect for those “I need dinner fast” moments! 😄 I like to add some cheese on top for an extra cheesy bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish, providing protein and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works great too. For a vegetarian option, try crumbled tempeh or lentils!
Rice: Long grain white rice is the best for this skillet. However, you can use brown rice for a healthier choice, remembering to adjust the cooking time as it usually takes longer to cook.
Taco Seasoning: While we’re using a packet for convenience, you can easily make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. This way, you control the spice level.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes can add a nice smoky flavor, or you could use fresh tomatoes in season. If you want a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon of tomato paste!
How Do I Get the Beef Perfectly Cooked Without Being Greasy?
To avoid greasy beef, make sure to drain excess fat after browning the meat. This keeps the dish light and lets the flavor of the other ingredients shine through. Additionally, breaking the beef into small pieces helps it cook evenly.
- Cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, then drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Mix in the taco seasoning right after draining; it sticks better to the meat this way!
Cooking the beef this way ensures that the final dish is rich in flavor without being too heavy. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy every bite of that delicious blend! Enjoy cooking! 🌮
Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) taco seasoning mix (or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes until you can dig in! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onion:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook it for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step adds a nice base flavor to your dish!
2. Cook the Beef:
Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from being greasy.
3. Spice It Up:
Next, stir in the taco seasoning mix. Make sure the beef is evenly coated with the spices, bringing that delicious Mexican flavor to your skillet!
4. Mix in the Rice and Other Ingredients:
Add the rice, canned diced tomatoes (including all the juice), beef broth (or water), and frozen corn. Stir everything together well to combine. This will ensure the rice absorbs all those tasty flavors as it cooks!
5. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes. This allows the rice to cook and absorb all the liquid beautifully!
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top now. Cover the skillet for just a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt nicely.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your dish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, and don’t forget to add a dollop of sour cream on top if you like!
Enjoy this flavorful, easy, and comforting Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet! It’s a perfect meal for busy days, and everyone will love it! 🌯🍽️
FAQ for Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! However, keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. You’ll need to add an additional cup of broth and extend the simmering time to about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
What if I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No problem! You can make your own taco seasoning using common spices. Mix together 1 teaspoon each of chili powder and cumin, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and some salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spices according to your preference for heat!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the beef and rice mixture cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth to help with moisture!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This skillet is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of tortilla chips, guacamole, or a fresh salad for some extra crunch and flavor. Sour cream, salsa, and hot sauce also make great toppings!