When it comes to quick and delicious meals that can satisfy the whole family, look no further than this Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet. This one-pan dish is a fantastic solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delightful without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with flavorful ingredients such as seasoned beef, colorful veggies, and cheesy goodness, this dish screams comfort food in the best sense. With the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also offers versatility—perfect for customizing based on personal preferences or what you have on hand. The combination of tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and hearty beans makes this skillet meal filling and satisfying. Plus, it has the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies, making it an all-in-one dinner that the entire family will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting friends, a dish like this is ideal for any occasion.

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

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Flavor Packed: Loaded with bold Tex-Mex flavors and topped with melted cheese, it’s hard not to love every bite.
One-Pan Meal: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze.
Protein and Veggies: This dish combines ground beef with plenty of vegetables for a balanced meal.
Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will find this dish irresistible!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking your Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet, you’ll need to prepare your kitchen workspace. Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients listed below, as this will streamline your cooking process. Having everything within reach means you won’t have to stop mid-recipe to hunt for something, ensuring the meal comes together seamlessly.

For cooking this skillet meal, you’ll need a large skillet or frying pan. A sturdy wooden spoon or spatula is essential for browning the beef and stirring in the other ingredients. If you want extra convenience, having a measuring cup for the rice and a can opener for the beans and tomatoes can save time. Don’t forget a spatula to help scrape the bottom of the pan as you cook, ensuring all the delicious flavors meld together effectively.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by placing your large skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to warm up nicely. Add the ground beef to the skillet and use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. This step is vital as you want even cooking and browning. Once the beef is nicely browned, it’s a good idea to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your dish from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

With the beef cooked to perfection, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté these ingredients for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavor base that will enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Step 3: Add Spices

Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture. Stir well, ensuring that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the beef and onions. The spices should coat the meat beautifully, infusing it with that classic Mexican flavor.

Step 4: Combine Key Ingredients

Now it’s time to add color and nutrition! Pour in the diced bell peppers, black beans, corn, and the can of diced tomatoes along with its juices. Stir everything together until well combined. Let this hearty mixture simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the veggies to become tender.

Step 5: Incorporate the Rice

Once the mixture is well combined and simmered, it’s time to integrate the cooked rice. Add the rice into the skillet and stir everything together until all ingredients are heated through and uniformly mixed. The rice will soak up the delicious flavors from the beef and veggies while keeping the dish hearty.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the skillet mixture. For best results, cover the skillet with a lid, allowing the steam to help melt the cheese evenly over the top. After about 2 to 3 minutes, you’ll see the cheese melted into gooey perfection.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and, if desired, garnish with fresh cilantro and halved cherry tomatoes for added freshness. Serve this delightful meal hot, and get ready for some rave reviews from your family!

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein for a lighter option.
Vegetables: Add spinach, zucchini, or any of your favorite seasonal vegetables to boost nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like chili powder or cumin for added zest.

Cooking Notes

To make this dish vegetarian, skip the beef and double the beans for a protein-rich option.
Ensure to rinse the canned beans well to reduce the sodium content.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm tortillas or tortilla chips for scooping.
Pair with a side of guacamole or sour cream for an extra indulgent flavor.

Tips

For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce into the mix.
Make it a freezer-friendly meal by storing portions in airtight containers for future dinners.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this meal a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute for a vegetarian option; all variations will work well with this recipe.

How can I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms for additional nutrients and flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

The leftovers freeze well when stored in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy!

Conclusion

This Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together in a quick and easy package. With its mouthwatering combination of beef, rice, beans, and plenty of veggies, it’s a dish the entire family will adore. So why not try it for dinner tonight? You’ll love how simple it is to make, how delicious it tastes, and how little cleanup is involved—all while bringing Tex-Mex joy to your table. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations you tried in the comments below!