Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Mexican Beef 'N' Rice Skillet is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights. It's a complete meal in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. This healthy meal is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a fantastic option for a quick dinner idea or a satisfying lunch. Get ready to experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico without the fuss!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
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Brown the beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, Rotel (undrained), rice, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a boil: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately. Top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro, for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Cooking Tips for the Best Mexican Beef 'N' Rice Skillet:
- For extra flavor: Sauté the onions and peppers with a little olive oil before adding the ground beef. This will help to caramelize them and enhance their sweetness.
- Spice it up: If you like a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Leftovers: This dish is even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Chicken Mexican Rice Skillet: Substitute 1 lb of cooked chicken breast, shredded, for the ground beef.
- Vegetarian Mexican Rice Skillet: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice for extra protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This Mexican Beef 'N' Rice Skillet is a simple, delicious, and versatile recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. The ease of preparation, combined with its flavorful ingredients, makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!