Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner with a mouthwatering Mexican Beef and Bean Skillet Rice that'll have your family begging for seconds! This one-pan wonder combines the bold flavors of seasoned ground beef, hearty black beans, and perfectly cooked rice into a meal that's not just delicious, but also incredibly easy to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that brings the vibrant taste of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table – no passport required!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup corn
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring and gathering them on your workspace. Ensure black beans are drained and rinsed thoroughly.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it into small crumbles using a wooden spatula.
- Cook the ground beef for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is completely browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the browned beef and stir to coat evenly, allowing the spices to toast for about 30 seconds.
- Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir, allowing the rice to lightly toast with the beef and seasonings for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour beef broth into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in black beans and corn, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through completely.
- Remove from heat and let the skillet stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and rice to finish steaming.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish generously with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve hot directly from the skillet.
Tips
- • For maximum flavor, toast your rice with the beef and taco seasoning before adding liquid – this helps develop a deeper, richer taste profile. • Use fresh, high-quality taco seasoning for the most authentic flavor. Consider making your own blend for an extra special touch. • Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy final dish and ensure your rice doesn't become soggy. • Let the skillet stand covered for the full 5 minutes after cooking to allow steam to finish cooking the rice and meld the flavors. • For added nutrition, you can substitute brown rice, but increase cooking time by 10-15 minutes. • Fresh cilantro is key – chop it just before serving to maintain its bright, fresh flavor and vibrant color. • Optional toppings like sour cream, diced avocado, or shredded cheese can elevate this dish even further.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 75mg
