Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine with these mouthwatering Southwest Spiced Beef and Rice Bowls that promise to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the heart of Mexican cuisine! In just 30 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that's bursting with bold flavors, tender ground beef, and a perfect blend of spices that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a culinary enthusiast, this recipe is your ticket to an easy, delicious dinner that combines comfort and excitement in every single bite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup white rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 tablespoon southwest spice blend
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Measure and prepare all ingredients: ground beef, white rice, diced tomatoes, southwest spice blend, shredded cheese, olive oil, and salt.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook the beef for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is completely browned and no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary, leaving a small amount for flavor.
- Sprinkle southwest spice blend over the beef and stir to coat evenly, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add white rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, stirring to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 15-18 minutes or until rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Season with salt to taste, adjusting spices as needed.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, letting it melt slightly.
- Serve hot in individual bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of beef, rice, and melted cheese.
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use a high-quality southwest spice blend and toast the spices briefly to enhance their aromatic qualities.
- Choose a lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to balance flavor and avoid excessive greasiness.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef, but leave a small amount for added richness.
- Use long-grain white rice for the best texture and absorption of flavors.
- Let the rice simmer covered to ensure it becomes perfectly tender and absorbs all the delicious tomato and spice liquid.
- Optional garnish ideas: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, or sliced jalapeños for extra zest.
- For a meal prep-friendly version, this dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated easily.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
