Cheesy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet: A One-Pan Wonder

Looking for a hearty and flavorful dinner that’s easy to make? This cheesy Mexican beef and rice skillet is packed with savory ground beef, vibrant veggies, and melty cheese. Best of all, it’s made in just one pan—perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners!

Ingredients for Cheesy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) frozen or canned corn (drained)
• 1 cup (200g) uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 3/4 cups (400ml) chicken or beef broth
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)

Optional toppings:

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sour cream
• Sliced jalapeños

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté the Veggies

1. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Add the Rice and Spices

1. Stir in the uncooked rice, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the rice and release the spices’ aroma.

4. Add Liquid and Simmer

1. Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir well and season with salt and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

5. Add Corn and Cheese

1. Stir in the corn and top the skillet with shredded cheese.
2. Cover the skillet again and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream, or jalapeños if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
• Bold Flavors: The perfect combination of spices, beef, and cheese for a Mexican-inspired dish.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables, use ground turkey instead of beef, or adjust the spice level to your liking.

Tips for the Perfect Skillet

• Rinse the Rice: If using regular long-grain rice, rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Shredding cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Make It Spicy: Add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

FAQs About Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with black beans or diced mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

2. Can I use leftover rice?
Absolutely! Skip the broth and stir in cooked rice along with the tomatoes and spices. Heat until warmed through.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Why This Dish Is a Winner

This cheesy Mexican beef and rice skillet is a crowd-pleaser that delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights, it’s hearty, filling, and sure to become a family favorite.

Try this one-pan cheesy beef and rice skillet today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!