Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

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This Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is a colorful, flavor-packed one-pan meal that brings the bold essence of Tex-Mex cuisine right into your kitchen. It’s the ultimate comfort food — hearty ground beef seasoned with warm spices, tossed with fluffy rice, black beans, sweet corn, and vibrant bell peppers. Topped with gooey melted cheese and fresh jalapeños, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to eat.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together quickly in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a reliable go-to packed with protein, fiber, and savory goodness. Serve it with a side of tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, or wrapped in a warm tortilla for a filling burrito.

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Ingredients for this Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 fresh jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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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 wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

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Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the taco seasoning and mix thoroughly to coat everything in the spices.

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Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids

Pour in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil.

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Step 4: Simmer to Cook Rice

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often while it cooks.

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Step 5: Mix in Corn and Beans

When the rice is done, stir in the corn and black beans. Let the skillet simmer uncovered for another 2–3 minutes, until everything is heated through.

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Step 6: Top with Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover again for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Then garnish with sliced jalapeños and chopped cilantro.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of the Simple Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet, let the dish cool to room temperature first. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

To reheat:

• Microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring halfway through, until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water to a skillet and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

Avoid repeated reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following is an estimate per serving (based on 6 servings total):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg

Note: Actual nutrition may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well with the same seasoning and ingredients.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has mild heat from the taco seasoning and jalapeños. You can adjust spice levels by using mild or hot seasoning blends.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the ground beef and add an extra can of black beans or use plant-based meat alternatives.

What toppings go well with this?

Try sour cream, avocado slices, extra cheese, green onions, or hot sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve. It also freezes well.

What kind of cheese is best?

Cheddar melts well and adds sharpness, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also taste great.

Can I serve this as a burrito filling?

Absolutely! It makes a hearty burrito filling—just wrap in a large tortilla and enjoy.

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