Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

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This super easy Mexican beef and rice skillet is the kind of recipe that turns your ordinary weeknight into a fiesta of flavors. It’s hearty, loaded with savory beef, vibrant spices, and fluffy rice all in one pan, making it not just satisfying but also a breeze to clean up.

Whether you’re in the mood for something cozy or need a quick family dinner with bold taste, this dish checks every box. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, budget-friendly, and has just the right balance of protein, carbs, and color to make your dinner plate shine.

Why You’ll Love This Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

If you love meals that require minimal effort but deliver maximum taste, this skillet will be your new go-to. It brings together simple pantry staples and transforms them into a rich, flavorful dinner. The rice soaks up all the spices and juices from the seasoned beef, creating a saucy, one-skillet comfort food that can feed a crowd or provide great leftovers.

This is also a very customizable recipe. You can toss in corn, bell peppers, beans, or even cheese. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free too. Think of it as a canvas for your favorite Tex-Mex additions.

What Kind of Rice Works Best?

Long-grain white rice is the classic choice for this recipe because it cooks evenly and holds up well to the saucy texture. However, jasmine or basmati also work beautifully if you like a bit more fragrance. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, brown rice or cauliflower rice are solid substitutes—just keep in mind you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid slightly.

Ingredients for the Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

The ingredients here are simple but flavorful. Everything can be found at your local grocery store, and you likely have most of it on hand already.

• Ground beef – This is the heart of the skillet. Choose lean ground beef so you don’t end up with excess grease.
• White rice – Absorbs the spices and beefy juices. Go for uncooked long-grain rice.
• Tomato paste – Adds richness and depth to the flavor base.
• Onion – Gives a sweet-savory base and melds beautifully with the beef.
• Garlic – Essential for that classic Mexican aroma.
• Chili powder – Brings the heat and deep flavor.
• Cumin – Earthy and warm, perfect for balance.
• Paprika – Adds a smoky kick.
• Salt & pepper – To season to perfection.
• Beef broth – Helps cook the rice and adds more savory flavor.
• Canned diced tomatoes – Brings juiciness and acidity to round out the dish.
• Shredded cheese (optional) – For a melted, gooey finish.

How To Make the Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the Spices

Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the beef and onion mixture evenly with the spices.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Add the uncooked white rice to the skillet. Mix everything together, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Once the rice is done, stir the mixture and top with shredded cheese if using. Let the cheese melt for a few minutes with the lid on. Serve warm and garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

How to Serve and Store Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

This skillet recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people depending on portion size. It makes an excellent standalone dish, but also works great as a burrito filling, taco stuffing, or loaded nacho topper.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up. It also freezes well for up to 2 months, making it a perfect meal prep option.

What to Serve With Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet?

Warm Tortillas

Soft flour or corn tortillas make an excellent side or wrap option for this skillet.

Guacamole

Creamy avocado dip balances out the spices beautifully.

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

A bold and creamy corn side dish that pairs deliciously with beef.

Black Bean Salad

A cool and refreshing salad for a fiber-rich boost.

Pico de Gallo

Fresh, zesty tomato salsa adds contrast and brightness.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

For those who prefer to tame the spice a little.

Tortilla Chips

Use them to scoop up the rice or serve alongside as a crunchy companion.

Pickled Jalapeños

Add tangy heat that really complements the savory skillet.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you love this one-pan wonder, you might also enjoy these easy and flavorful dinners:

• Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet for a wholesome veggie-packed meal.
• Keto Hamburger and Broccoli Skillet if you’re leaning low-carb.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for an indulgent one-dish twist.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup if you want your skillet with a cozy soup twist.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Did you sneak in black beans? Try it with green chilies or chipotle next time? I’d love to hear how you customized it.

Questions? Drop them in the comments. Sharing tips and ideas helps us all cook better!

Explore beautifully curated meal ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover new favorites that nourish and delight.

Conclusion

The Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet brings everything you want in a dinner: bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and the kind of comfort food appeal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Make it once and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe any time life calls for a warm, satisfying, and stress-free meal.

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