
Spanish Rice with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food! 🍛✨ Packed with bold flavors, juicy ground beef, and perfectly seasoned rice, this one-pan dish is easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner, a tasty side dish, or a meal-prep option, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients, so you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen! 🙌
Let’s dive into this delicious and easy Spanish Rice with Ground Beef recipe! 🔥
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor!
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry staples.
✅ Family Favorite – Kids and adults love it!
✅ Meal-Prep Friendly – Makes great leftovers.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
🥩 For the Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef – Lean or regular, your choice!
- ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a little kick.
- ½ teaspoon cumin – Essential for that Spanish flavor!
- ½ teaspoon chili powder – For a bit of spice.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds depth and a smoky touch.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better! 🧄
🍚 For the Spanish Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice – Jasmine or basmati work too!
- 1 ½ cups beef broth – Enhances the meaty flavor.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes – Use fire-roasted for extra flavor! 🍅
- ½ cup tomato sauce – Adds richness.
- ½ small onion, diced – For a sweet and savory taste.
- 1 small bell pepper, diced – Red, green, or both! 🫑
- 1 teaspoon olive oil – To sauté the veggies.
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning – Optional, but highly recommended!
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Boosts umami flavor.
🧀 Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack. 🧀
- Fresh cilantro – For a fresh, herby finish. 🌿
- Avocado slices – Creamy and delicious! 🥑
- Sour cream – For a cool contrast.
👨🍳 How to Make Spanish Rice with Ground Beef
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
1️⃣ Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
3️⃣ Drain excess grease if necessary.
4️⃣ Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder.
5️⃣ Stir everything well and set the beef aside.
💡 Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce while cooking the beef!
🍅 Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
1️⃣ In the same skillet, add 1 teaspoon of olive oil.
2️⃣ Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper.
3️⃣ Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
💡 Love spice? Add a chopped jalapeño for some heat! 🌶️
🍚 Step 3: Cook the Rice
1️⃣ Stir in the uncooked rice with the sautéed veggies.
2️⃣ Toast the rice for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3️⃣ Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth.
4️⃣ Add taco seasoning for an extra kick!
5️⃣ Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
💡 Want smoky depth? Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika!
⏳ Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
1️⃣ Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.
2️⃣ Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3️⃣ Check if the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4️⃣ Stir in the cooked ground beef and mix well.
💡 Rice not done? Add a splash of broth and cook for a few more minutes!
🧀 Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve!
1️⃣ Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
2️⃣ Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top (if using) and let it melt. 🧀
3️⃣ Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream.
4️⃣ Serve hot and enjoy! 😍
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This Spanish Rice with Ground Beef is amazing on its own, but here are a few fun ways to enjoy it:
🌮 Taco Filling – Stuff it into soft or crunchy taco shells!
🥄 Burrito Bowl – Serve with black beans, corn, and guacamole.
🌯 Stuffed Peppers – Use it as a filling for baked bell peppers!
🥗 With a Side Salad – A fresh green salad balances the flavors.
💡 Want extra crunch? Serve with tortilla chips on the side!
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
📦 Storing Leftovers:
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed freezer bag!
🔥 Reheating Instructions:
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat with a splash of broth.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
💡 Best Way to Reheat? Stovetop for fresh texture, microwave for convenience!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1️⃣ Can I Use Brown Rice Instead?
Yes! Just add ½ cup extra broth and increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes.
2️⃣ Can I Make It Spicy?
Of course! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce. 🌶️🔥
3️⃣ Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead?
Absolutely! It’s a leaner option and works great in this recipe. 🦃
4️⃣ How Do I Keep My Rice from Getting Mushy?
Make sure to simmer on low heat and don’t stir too often!
5️⃣ What’s the Best Cheese for Topping?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend! 🧀
🌟 Final Thoughts – A Must-Try Recipe!
This Spanish Rice with Ground Beef is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that you’ll want to make again and again! 🍛💛
With tender beef, perfectly seasoned rice, and a delicious blend of spices, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and versatile.
Try it tonight and let me know how you like it! 😍
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I am a graduate of Bangladesh Agricultural University, where I delved into various agricultural disciplines, equipping me with a profound understanding of agriculture. Beyond academics, I have hands-on experience in gardening and crop cultivation. My passion is to embrace sustainable farming and horticulture. With a BSc in Agriculture, I am dedicated to promoting environmentally conscious and efficient agrarian practices.
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture (Hons.)
Master of Science. (Sustainable Agriculture & Food Security ) (MS)
Bangladesh Agricultural University