Description
Sizzling Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet brings bold flavors together in one satisfying pan, blending hearty ground beef with zesty spices and fluffy rice. Comfort meets cuisine with this quick, easy meal that delivers authentic taste without complex preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10 ounces) Rotel tomatoes
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ounce package taco seasoning (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Liquids:
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
Optional Add-ins:
- Black beans
- Corn
- Chopped bell peppers
Instructions
- Warm a spacious cast-iron skillet over moderate temperature, drizzling olive oil to coat the bottom evenly.
- Introduce ground beef and finely chopped onions, sautéing until the meat transforms to a rich golden brown and onions become translucent.
- Infuse the mixture with minced garlic and robust taco seasoning, allowing the aromatics to bloom and intensify for approximately 60 seconds.
- Stream beef broth into the skillet, incorporating diced Rotel tomatoes and concentrated tomato paste, blending ingredients thoroughly.
- Gently cascade rice into the simmering liquid, stirring to distribute evenly and create a uniform consistency.
- Elevate the temperature momentarily, encouraging the contents to reach a vigorous bubble, then immediately reduce heat to minimal setting.
- Secure the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, allowing the ensemble to gently cook and marry flavors for 18-22 minutes until rice absorbs liquid completely.
- Generously cascade shredded cheddar cheese across the surface, returning the lid to create a melting environment.
- Optional embellishments include folding in black beans, roasted corn kernels, or vibrant chopped bell peppers for additional texture and nutrition.
- Serve immediately, allowing the melted cheese to create an enticing, glossy surface.
Notes
- Select lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of taco seasoning or using a mild/hot blend to suit different taste preferences.
- Replace ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based protein for a lighter alternative that accommodates various dietary needs.
- Add fresh cilantro or green onions as a garnish to boost flavor and provide a vibrant, fresh finish to the one-pan meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg