Quick And Easy Spanish Rice And Beef
A flavorful, quick Spanish-inspired rice and beef dish with tomatoes, corn, and spices, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet.
- Add stewed tomatoes, water, corn, salt, oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Bring to a boil and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in uncooked rice. Cover the skillet and remove from heat.
- Let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef with chopped onions and bell peppers. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, use black beans instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of water. This dish is versatile and fits well within Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spanish rice and beef with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced avocado. This dish pairs beautifully with Skillet Spanish Rice, making it perfect for a family dinner or a potluck. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the skillet and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 1-2 minutes, adding water if needed to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Spanish Rice And Beef contains roughly 293 calories, with 11g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (191% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (156% of the Daily Value), and calcium (109% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2222mg per serving (97% 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 Minute rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water amount. Brown rice typically requires about 2 cups of water and takes around 40-45 minutes to cook. Just be sure to add the vegetables and seasonings at the right time to ensure they're well incorporated into the dish.
What can I do if the rice is too dry after cooking?
If the rice turns out dry, add a little bit of water or broth to the skillet and cover it again for a few minutes. This will help steam the rice and rehydrate it. Stir gently to combine, and check the texture before serving. You can also add a bit of salsa for flavor and moisture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the rice and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bring it back to a boil before adding the rice. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
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).