Mexican Skillet Dinner
A hearty and flavorful Mexican-inspired skillet dinner with seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and corn, perfect for satisfying family meals with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a large skillet.
- Cook ground beef and chopped onion until almost done.
- Add uncooked rice to the skillet.
- Continue cooking until ground beef is done and rice is browning.
- Add the envelope of taco seasoning and mix well.
- Stir in tomato paste and 3/4 cup water.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender.
- Add kidney beans and corn, then mix.
- Simmer for 15 minutes over low heat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding fresh cilantro or lime juice to the dish before serving. If you don't have taco seasoning, you can make your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils. This Mexican Skillet Dinner can also be customized with additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect on its own but can be served with a side of tortilla chips or a fresh salad for added crunch. Pair it with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Tortilla Stew or with some homemade Hot Frijole Dip for a delightful twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Skillet Dinner contains roughly 545 calories, with 24g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 820mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the water and simmer longer until the rice is tender, usually about 30-40 minutes. Be sure to check for doneness and add more water if necessary.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute. Each option will provide a different flavor profile, so choose one that suits your dietary preferences and taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or for busy weeknights, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).