Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

If you are craving a warm, comforting dish that comes together quickly and packs authentic flavors, this Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, one-pan wonder that combines juicy ground beef, tender rice, colorful bell peppers, and rich tomato sauce with a perfect blend of spices. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a satisfying dinner without fuss, this recipe brings heartwarming Mexican flair straight to your kitchen in under an hour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and vibrant color. The beauty lies in their simplicity, yet the combination delivers a deliciously satisfying meal.

• 1 pound Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a rich, meaty base that isn’t too greasy.
• 1 cup Long Grain White Rice: Rinse the rice to remove excess starch and ensure fluffy grains.
• 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 cup Bell Peppers: A mix of colors diced finely gives the skillet eye-catching vibrancy and a subtle crunch.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced garlic delivers that aromatic punch that wakes up your palate.
• 15 ounces Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture plus tangy richness to keep every bite luscious.
• 2 cups Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium broth enhances flavor while letting you control the saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon Cumin: The signature Mexican spice that brings warmth and a subtle earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon Chili Powder: Brings mild heat and complexity to the skillet without overwhelming.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to your taste, balancing the vibrant flavors beautifully.
• 1 bunch Cilantro: Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a refreshing herbal finish.

How to Make Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook it until it browns evenly, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the beef not only locks in flavor but also sets a hearty foundation for the rest of the dish. You’ll want to break it up as it cooks to create small, tender pieces that blend perfectly with the rice and veggies.

Step 2: Drain Excess Fat

Once your beef is beautifully browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the pan. This step keeps your dish from becoming greasy while leaving just enough flavorful juices to enhance the following layers of ingredients.

Step 3: Sauté Onion

Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté it for 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. The onions soften and release natural sweetness that complements the savory beef perfectly.

Step 4: Add Peppers and Garlic

Mix in the diced bell peppers and minced garlic, cooking everything together for 2 to 3 minutes. This combination brings a delightful aroma, freshness, and a slight crunch that elevates the texture of the skillet.

Step 5: Combine Tomato Sauce, Broth, and Rice

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, then add your rinsed rice. Stir everything thoroughly to combine the ingredients into one cohesive mixture. The tomato sauce enriches the dish with a subtle tang, while the broth helps the rice cook to tender perfection.

Step 6: Season the Skillet

Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. These spices give your skillet that signature Mexican taste with balanced heat and earthiness. Stir well so every grain of rice and piece of beef gets coated with the flavorful seasoning.

Step 7: Simmer Covered

Bring the skillet to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it tightly and allow the dish to simmer for 20 minutes. During this slow cooking stage, the rice soaks up all those beautiful flavors while the beef becomes tender and juicy.

Step 8: Check Rice for Doneness

Peek under the lid to test the rice texture. If it isn’t quite tender yet, simply cover and cook for another 5 minutes. This extra time helps ensure the rice finishes cooking without becoming mushy.

Step 9: Final Touches

Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and release steam. Garnish the entire skillet generously with chopped fresh cilantro to add a bright, herbal note that perfectly contrasts the warm spices.

How to Serve Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is the star garnish here, but you can also consider a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors. Thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can add an extra layer of indulgence.

Side Dishes

This skillet stands beautifully on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, warm tortillas, or some creamy guacamole. Adding a side of black beans or corn salsa will complete the festive Mexican feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the beef and rice mixture stuffed inside warm bell pepper halves or rolled into crispy tortilla bowls. This presentation not only looks impressive but offers a delightful way to enjoy the dish with some crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually harmonize more with a little resting time, making the next day’s meal even tastier.

Freezing

You can freeze the Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing and use freezer-safe containers or sturdy zip-lock bags to maintain freshness.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw leftovers overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If it looks dry, splash a little broth or water to revive the moisture and texture.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well, but since it takes longer to cook, you’ll need to increase the simmer time and possibly add more broth. It will also bring a nuttier flavor and chewier texture to the dish.

How spicy is this Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe?

The recipe is mildly spicy thanks to chili powder, but it’s easy to adjust. Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne if you want more heat, or tone it down by reducing the chili powder to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swapping the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils works well. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully vegetarian while retaining rich flavor.

What can I use instead of cilantro if I don’t like it?

If cilantro isn’t your favorite, fresh parsley or green onions make great alternatives. They bring brightness without the distinctive taste that some people find overpowering.

Is it necessary to rinse the rice before cooking?

While not mandatory, rinsing the rice removes surface starch that can cause stickiness, resulting in fluffier, separate grains that enhance the dish’s texture.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe is truly a staple for anyone looking to whip up a delicious, fuss-free meal bursting with authentic flavors. It’s a go-to dish that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day, and I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own. Trust me, dinner just got a whole lot better!

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