Mexican beef and rice skillet: 5 reasons you’ll love it

Name: Mexican beef and rice skillet: 5 reasons you'll love it
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese; Fresh cilantro for garnish

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the magic of a one-pan meal, especially when it’s a Mexican beef and rice skillet! It’s my go-to dish when I want something quick, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. I remember the first time I whipped this up for family; the aroma of spices dancing through the kitchen had everyone’s mouths watering before it even hit the table. It’s a fantastic way to combine protein and carbs in one pan, and the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! I love how the beef gets perfectly browned while the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors. Trust me, this dish is not just easy to make; it’s also a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so good!

mexican beef and rice skillet - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible Mexican beef and rice skillet. I’ve made sure to specify exactly what to do with each ingredient so you can get right to cooking!

1 lb ground beef (I usually go for lean to keep it healthier!)
1 cup long-grain white rice (this cooks up beautifully and absorbs all the flavors)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (the juiciness makes a huge difference)
1 cup beef broth (for that rich, savory taste)
1 bell pepper, diced (any color works, but I love the sweetness of red!)
1 onion, chopped (this adds such a wonderful aroma)
2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust based on how spicy you like it)
1 teaspoon cumin (for that earthy depth)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on seasoning!)
1 cup shredded cheese (I’m a big fan of cheddar, but use your favorite!)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (for that pop of color and freshness)

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making your Mexican beef and rice skillet! This is where all that prep pays off, and you’ll see how easy it really is to whip up this tasty dish.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

First up, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spatula. You’ll want to cook it until it’s nicely browned—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer pink and has that lovely brown color. That browning is key for flavor, so don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook everything together for about 3-5 minutes until the veggies are softened and aromatic. This is where your kitchen will start to smell amazing! Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 3: Add Spices

Now it’s time to amp up the flavor! Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together, allowing those spices to coat the beef and vegetables evenly. This step is crucial because it’s what makes your dish burst with that wonderful Mexican flavor!

Step 4: Combine Rice and Liquids

Pour in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil—this is super important because it’s what gets that rice cooking right. You’re looking for those bubbles to start popping!

Step 5: Simmer the Dish

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens as the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors. Just be sure to resist the urge to lift the lid too often; the steam helps cook the rice perfectly!

Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Garnish

When the rice is tender, it’s time for the grand finale! Stir in the shredded cheese until it’s melted and gooey. I like to save a bit for sprinkling on top for that extra cheesy goodness. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro to brighten up the dish. And there you have it—your Mexican beef and rice skillet is ready to be devoured!

FAQ Section

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice usually takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. I recommend adding an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.

What can I add for extra veggies?
Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand! Corn, zucchini, or even spinach would be fantastic additions. Just chop them up and toss them in when you add the bell pepper.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This Mexican beef and rice skillet keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems a bit dry.

Is this dish spicy?
The spice level really depends on how much chili powder you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can start with less and add more to taste. It’s all about making it perfect for your palate!

Can I freeze leftovers?
Definitely! Just let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—all done in one pan!
Packed with flavor from Mexican spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.
Customizable with your favorite veggies or spice levels.
Leftovers store well, making it a fantastic meal prep option!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Mexican beef and rice skillet turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to avoid common pitfalls and ensure you’re serving up a delicious meal every time.

Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the beef. This step adds so much flavor, so don’t rush it! If you throw in the other ingredients too soon, you’ll miss that delicious caramelization.
Use Fresh Spices: Spices can lose potency over time. Make sure your chili powder and cumin are fresh for maximum flavor! If you can, try to buy whole spices and grind them yourself—it’s a game changer.
Watch the Rice: Different brands of rice can vary in cooking time, so keep an eye on it as it simmers. If you find it’s getting too dry before it’s tender, just add a splash more beef broth or water.
Cover It Up: When you reduce the heat to simmer, make sure to cover the skillet. This traps the steam, helping your rice cook evenly and absorb all those tasty flavors.
Experiment with Cheese: Cheese can make or break this dish! If you want to switch things up, try a mix of cheeses like pepper jack for a little kick or a smoky gouda for added depth.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting and flavorful dish. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into your Mexican beef and rice skillet! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients used, but they give you a good idea of what you’re serving up.

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g

This dish strikes a great balance between protein and carbs, making it not just tasty but also satisfying. Enjoy knowing you’re not just feeding your stomach, but fueling your body with good nutrition!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So you’ve made this delicious Mexican beef and rice skillet, and now you’ve got some leftovers—lucky you! Proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and tasty for your next meal. Here’s how to do it:

First off, let the skillet cool down to room temperature before you store it. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent any funky smells from mingling!

If you want to save it for a longer time, you can absolutely freeze it! Just pack the cooled skillet meal into a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It’ll last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.

To reheat, you can either pop it in the microwave or warm it up on the stove. If using the stove, just add a little splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. Heat on medium until it’s warmed through, stirring occasionally. And there you go—delicious leftovers that taste just as good as the first time!

What to Serve with Your Skillet

Now that you’ve got your delicious Mexican beef and rice skillet ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to really elevate your meal! Here are a few of my favorite pairings that complement the flavors perfectly:

Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: You can’t go wrong with a fresh, creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips. The coolness of the guacamole balances the spices in the skillet beautifully, and it adds a fun, interactive element to your meal!
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad, made with corn, cilantro, lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder, adds a fresh and zesty contrast to the hearty skillet dish. It’s a perfect side that brings a pop of color and flavor to your table!
Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to add some crunch and freshness. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, sliced radishes, and avocado for a lovely mix that complements your main dish perfectly.

These sides not only enhance the meal but also create a more festive dining experience. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

For more delicious recipes, check out this Mexican food recipe page for inspiration!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.