Description
A simple and flavorful Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet recipe that combines lean ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and classic Mexican spices. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare, featuring tender rice cooked in tomato sauce and chicken broth, infused with cumin and chili powder, and garnished with fresh cilantro. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with authentic taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (preferably a mix of colors)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, for garnish
Grains
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
Liquids and Sauces
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks for even browning.
- Drain Fat: Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent greasiness, then return the skillet to the heat.
- Sauté Onion: Add finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft, enhancing the dish’s sweetness and depth.
- Add Peppers and Garlic: Incorporate the diced bell peppers and minced garlic into the skillet, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Combine Liquids and Rice: Pour in the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and the rinsed long grain white rice. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Season the Mixture: Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to distribute the spices and seasonings throughout.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquids and cook fully.
- Check Rice Doneness: After 20 minutes, check the rice to see if it is tender. If needed, cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
- Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming sticky.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and create a healthier dish.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Covering the skillet during simmering helps cook the rice evenly and retain moisture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
