Description
Spanish Rice with Ground Beef is a one-pan dinner loaded with tender beef, fluffy rice, bell peppers, and Tex-Mex spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful meal comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
1 lb extra-lean ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt, or to taste
¼ tsp black pepper, or to taste
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
3 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup uncooked white rice (Jasmine or Basmati are excellent choices)
1 (15.4 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Optional: ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
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Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until no longer pink.
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Add veggies: Stir in the onion, red and green bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for around 5 minutes, until the onion softens and turns translucent.
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Season: Add the salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and tomato paste. Stir well so the beef and veggies are coated in the spices.
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Add rice and liquids: Stir in the uncooked rice along with the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice should be tender and slightly saucy.
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Taste & finish: Adjust seasoning as needed. Cheese it up: Monterey Jack is wonderfully melty, though cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend are also delicious options. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder.
To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
To freeze, cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet / One-Pan Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 398
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 20g