We’ve all been there – staring into the fridge wondering what to make for dinner that’s both satisfying and simple. That’s exactly when Spanish rice with ground beef becomes our go-to hero meal. This hearty one-pot wonder transforms basic pantry staples into a flavor-packed feast that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
Spanish rice isn’t actually from Spain – it’s a beloved Tex-Mex creation that’s become a weeknight staple across American kitchens. The magic happens when tender rice absorbs all those savory flavors from seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. It’s comfort food at its finest.
What we love most about this dish is how it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. You’ll get a complete meal that’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
This Spanish rice with ground beef requires simple pantry staples that combine to create maximum flavor. We’ve organized our ingredients by component to make shopping and prep easier.
For the Spanish Rice
- 2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 3 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
For the Ground Beef
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (if needed)
Optional Garnishes and Toppings
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 2 green onions (sliced thin)
- 1 lime (cut into wedges)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 medium avocado (diced)
- 2 Roma tomatoes (diced)
- Pickled jalapeño slices
Equipment Needed
Making our Spanish rice with ground beef requires just a few essential kitchen tools that most home cooks already have on hand. We find that using the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving perfectly cooked rice and evenly browned beef.
Large Skillet or Heavy-Duty Pot serves as our primary cooking vessel for this one-pot meal. We recommend using a large skillet or large heavy-duty non-stick pot with a tight-fitting lid. A Dutch oven works exceptionally well for this recipe since it distributes heat evenly and prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Measuring Tools ensure accuracy in our ingredient proportions. We use standard measuring cups and spoons to portion out rice, broth, and seasonings correctly. Precise measurements help us achieve the perfect rice-to-liquid ratio every time.
Stirring Utensils allow us to mix ingredients thoroughly without damaging our cookware. We prefer using a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to break up the ground beef and stir the rice mixture. These tools prevent scratching non-stick surfaces while providing good control during cooking.
The beauty of this Spanish rice recipe lies in its simplicity about equipment needs. We appreciate that no specialized tools or gadgets are required, making this dish accessible for cooks at any skill level. Our straightforward equipment list means less cleanup and more time enjoying this delicious meal with family and friends.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Spanish rice with ground beef, we need to prepare our vegetables and season our meat properly. This initial prep work ensures even cooking and maximum flavor development.
Preparing the Vegetables
We begin by dicing about ¾ cup of green bell pepper and ¾ cup of onion for our base vegetables. White or yellow onions work perfectly, though we can also use a mix of red and green bell peppers for added color and sweetness. Next, we mince 1 teaspoon of garlic, which typically equals about 3 cloves depending on their size.
The frozen corn requires no advance preparation since it will thaw naturally during the cooking process. We simply keep it frozen until we’re ready to add it near the end of cooking.
Seasoning the Ground Beef
We start with ½ pound to 1 pound of lean or extra lean ground beef, depending on how many servings we’re preparing. The key is browning the beef properly in a deep skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up continuously until it becomes crumbly. This process takes about 5-8 minutes and ensures even cooking throughout.
After browning, we drain any excess grease to prevent our dish from becoming too oily. We then season the beef with our homemade taco seasoning blend containing cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Adding tomato paste at this stage creates a richer flavor base and helps the seasonings adhere better to the meat.
Instructions
Now that we’ve prepared our ingredients and gathered our equipment, let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delicious one-pot meal. The entire cooking process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Cook the Ground Beef
We start by heating our large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-8 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the pan to prevent our dish from becoming greasy.
Push the cooked beef to one side of the skillet and add our diced onions and bell peppers to the empty space. Sauté the vegetables for 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until aromatic. Mix everything together so the beef and vegetables are evenly distributed.
Prepare the Rice Base
Add the uncooked long-grain white rice directly to the skillet with our beef and vegetable mixture. Stir the rice around for about 2 minutes to lightly toast it and coat each grain with the flavorful pan drippings. This step adds depth to our final dish.
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and add the tomato paste. Sprinkle our homemade taco seasoning blend over everything and stir well to combine. We want every grain of rice and piece of beef to be coated with the seasoning mixture for maximum flavor distribution.
Combine and Simmer
Pour the beef broth slowly over our rice mixture, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These caramelized bits add incredible flavor to our dish. Bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid during this time as it releases the steam needed for proper rice cooking. After 18 minutes, add the frozen corn kernels on top without stirring, then cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Final Seasoning and Rest
Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. This resting period allows any remaining liquid to be absorbed and prevents the rice from becoming mushy when we stir it. After resting, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
Taste our Spanish rice and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as needed. Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top and serve immediately with our favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or lime wedges for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Spanish Rice
We’ve mastered the basic technique, but achieving restaurant-quality Spanish rice with ground beef requires attention to exact details that elevate this dish from good to exceptional.
Choose the right rice variety for optimal texture and flavor absorption. Long grain white rice creates fluffy, separate grains that won’t become mushy during the cooking process. We avoid short grain varieties that tend to clump together and create a sticky consistency.
Brown your ground beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients. This step develops rich, savory flavors through the Maillard reaction and prevents the meat from steaming in its own juices. We drain excess grease after browning to avoid creating a soggy final dish.
Keep the pot covered during simmering to allow steam to properly cook the rice grains. Low heat ensures even cooking without burning the bottom layer while the steam circulates to cook the top portions uniformly.
Minimize stirring throughout the cooking process to prevent breaking the rice grains. We stir only when adding initial ingredients and before incorporating the frozen corn at the end. Excessive stirring releases starch and creates a gummy texture.
| Cooking Temperature | Time Required | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Medium-high heat | 5-8 minutes | Properly browned beef |
| Low heat (covered) | 20-25 minutes | Tender, fluffy rice |
| Additional cooking | 5 minutes | Perfect corn texture |
Use homemade taco seasoning instead of pre-packaged mixes for fresher, more vibrant flavors. Our blend combines chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika without unnecessary fillers or excess sodium.
Incorporate Rotel tomatoes with green chilies to add authentic Tex-Mex flavor with the perfect balance of heat and acidity. These diced tomatoes provide moisture while infusing the rice with subtle spiciness.
Add frozen corn directly without thawing during the final cooking minutes. This technique preserves the corn’s texture and prevents overcooking while allowing it to heat through completely.
Let the dish rest for several minutes after removing from heat. Residual steam continues cooking the rice while allowing flavors to meld together for a more cohesive taste profile.
Variations and Substitutions
We love how adaptable this Spanish rice with ground beef recipe is to different tastes and dietary needs. These simple swaps allow you to customize the dish while maintaining its hearty appeal.
Protein Alternatives
Ground turkey offers a leaner alternative to beef while delivering the same satisfying texture and absorbing all the delicious seasonings. We recommend using 85/15 ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Ground chicken works equally well and provides a milder taste that pairs beautifully with the bold spices.
For vegetarian versions, black beans or pinto beans make excellent protein substitutes that add fiber and complement the rice perfectly. We suggest using one 15-ounce can of drained and rinsed beans in place of the ground beef. Some of our favorite combinations include mixing half ground beef with black beans for added substance and nutrition.
| Protein Option | Cooking Time | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Turkey | 6-8 minutes | Lean, mild |
| Ground Chicken | 6-8 minutes | Light, neutral |
| Black Beans | 2-3 minutes | Earthy, hearty |
| Pinto Beans | 2-3 minutes | Creamy, mild |
Vegetable Add-ins
Bell peppers in different colors transform both the appearance and flavor of our Spanish rice. Red and yellow peppers add natural sweetness, while green peppers provide a slightly bitter note that balances the dish. We typically use one large bell pepper per batch.
Frozen corn becomes a game changer when stirred in during the final minutes of cooking. The kernels retain their texture and add a pop of sweetness that kids especially love. Diced zucchini introduces extra nutrition and absorbs the seasonings beautifully when added with the bell peppers.
Fresh or canned diced tomatoes beyond what the recipe calls for create a more robust tomato flavor. Green chiles from a 4-ounce can boost the southwestern character while adding mild heat.
Spice Level Adjustments
Rotel tomatoes with different heat levels give us complete control over the dish’s spiciness. Mild Rotel works perfectly for families with young children, while hot Rotel satisfies those who crave more kick.
Our homemade taco seasoning blend allows precise heat customization by adjusting the cayenne pepper from 1/4 teaspoon for mild to 1/2 teaspoon for medium heat. We can eliminate it entirely for the most sensitive palates.
Fresh jalapeños diced and sautéed with the onions create authentic heat that builds throughout the cooking process. One medium jalapeño typically provides moderate spice, while two jalapeños deliver serious heat. Hot sauce served on the side lets each person customize their portion to their preferred spice level.
Serving Suggestions
Our Spanish rice with ground beef works beautifully as a complete standalone meal that satisfies even the heartiest appetites. We love serving generous portions in deep bowls and letting everyone customize their plates with an array of fresh toppings. Shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese melts perfectly over the warm rice while dollops of cool sour cream provide a creamy contrast to the spiced flavors.
Fresh garnishes transform this hearty dish into a restaurant-quality presentation. We recommend sprinkling chopped cilantro over each serving for a bright herbal note that cuts through the rich ground beef. Diced avocado adds healthy fats and a silky texture that pairs wonderfully with the seasoned rice. Sliced green onions contribute a mild onion flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
Tortilla chips make an excellent accompaniment for scooping up every last grain of rice. We often arrange them around the serving dish or place them in small bowls for easy access. This combination creates a casual dining experience that encourages sharing and conversation around the table.
For larger gatherings or family-style meals we serve the Spanish rice alongside other Mexican-inspired dishes. Fresh salsa adds acidic brightness while pickled jalapeños provide extra heat for those who crave more spice. Lime wedges squeezed over individual portions enhance all the flavors and add a citrusy finish.
Creative serving options extend this versatile dish beyond traditional presentations. We frequently use the Spanish rice as a filling for soft flour tortillas to create hearty burritos. Warmed tortillas wrapped around generous portions of the rice mixture make portable lunches or casual dinners. Hard taco shells work equally well for a crunchier texture.
The dish maintains its flavors beautifully when served buffet-style for parties or potluck gatherings. We arrange all the toppings in separate bowls so guests can build their perfect combination. This setup works particularly well for families with different spice preferences since everyone can control their own heat level.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Our Spanish rice with ground beef stores beautifully for meal prep and leftovers. Proper storage techniques help maintain the dish’s texture and flavor for days or even months.
Refrigerator Storage
We recommend cooling the Spanish rice completely before transferring it to storage containers. Our testing shows that hot food can raise refrigerator temperatures and create condensation that affects food quality.
Place the cooled rice in airtight containers to prevent moisture loss and odor absorption. Glass containers work exceptionally well for maintaining freshness while allowing easy reheating.
Store the dish in your refrigerator for up to 3-4 days maximum. Beyond this timeframe the rice texture begins to deteriorate and food safety becomes a concern.
Label containers with preparation dates to track freshness accurately. We find this simple step prevents waste and ensures optimal quality when serving leftovers.
Freezer Storage
Allow the Spanish rice to cool fully before freezing to prevent ice crystal formation. Portion the rice into meal-sized servings for convenient thawing and reheating later.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Remove excess air from bags to maintain the best texture and flavor during storage.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Quality Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freezer Bags | Heavy-duty freezer bags | 3 months | Remove excess air |
| Freezer Containers | Airtight plastic or glass | 3 months | Leave headspace |
| Portion Control | Individual serving sizes | 3 months | Easy single servings |
Freeze the dish for up to 3 months while maintaining good quality. Label each container with the date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Methods
Stovetop Reheating
Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight for even heating. Heat the rice in a skillet over medium heat while stirring occasionally.
Add a splash of water or beef broth to prevent the rice from drying out during reheating. We recommend starting with 2-3 tablespoons of liquid per cup of rice.
Microwave Method
Place portions in microwave-safe dishes and cover loosely to prevent splattering. Heat on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals while stirring between each interval.
Check the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving to ensure food safety. Add moisture as needed to restore the rice’s original texture.
Oven Reheating
Preheat your oven to 350°F for gentle reheating that won’t dry out the rice. Place the rice in an oven-safe dish and cover tightly with foil.
Heat for approximately 20 minutes or until warmed through completely. This method works best for larger portions and maintains even heating throughout the dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Spanish rice with ground beef transforms into our ideal meal prep solution with its excellent make-ahead capabilities. We can prepare this hearty dish completely and store it for busy weeknight dinners throughout the week.
Complete Make-Ahead Preparation
We recommend cooking the entire recipe according to our standard instructions and allowing it to cool completely before storage. The dish maintains its flavor profile beautifully when prepared in advance since the rice continues absorbing the tomato-based broth and seasonings during refrigeration.
Proper Storage Techniques
After cooling our Spanish rice completely we transfer it to airtight containers for refrigerator storage. The dish stays fresh for up to 3-4 days when properly covered. For longer storage we portion the rice into freezer-safe containers where it maintains quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating Methods for Best Results
We reheat our make-ahead Spanish rice using gentle methods to preserve texture. On the stovetop we add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying and warm over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally. The microwave works well for individual portions when we cover the dish and heat in 30-second intervals.
Fresh Toppings Strategy
Our make-ahead approach works best when we add fresh garnishes after reheating rather than before storage. We keep shredded cheese sour cream cilantro and avocado separate until serving time. This strategy ensures maximum freshness and prevents soggy textures that can develop during storage.
Meal Prep Portioning
We find success dividing our Spanish rice into individual serving containers for grab-and-go convenience. Each portion reheats perfectly in the microwave making lunch preparation effortless during busy schedules.
Nutritional Information
Our Spanish rice with ground beef delivers a well-balanced nutritional profile that makes it an excellent choice for family meals. We’ve analyzed the typical serving size of 1 to 1.5 cups to provide you with accurate nutritional data that helps you make informed meal planning decisions.
The caloric content ranges from 350 to 450 calories per serving, with the variation depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you choose. Ground beef and rice contribute the majority of these calories, providing sustained energy for active families.
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving | Primary Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350-450 | Ground beef, rice |
| Protein | 20-25g | Ground beef |
| Carbohydrates | 40-50g | Rice, vegetables |
| Fat | 12-20g | Ground beef |
| Fiber | 3-5g | Vegetables, corn |
| Sodium | Variable | Broth, seasonings |
Protein content sits at a substantial 20 to 25 grams per serving, primarily from the ground beef component. This amount represents approximately 40 to 50 percent of the daily protein needs for most adults, making our dish an excellent main course option.
Carbohydrates contribute 40 to 50 grams per serving, with rice providing the bulk of these energy-giving nutrients. The vegetables add complex carbohydrates along with essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
Fat content typically ranges from 12 to 20 grams per serving, though this varies significantly based on the fat content of your chosen ground beef. We recommend using lean or extra lean ground beef to keep the fat content on the lower end of this range.
Fiber reaches about 3 to 5 grams per serving, contributed by the bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and corn. This fiber content supports digestive health and helps create a satisfying meal that keeps you fuller longer.
Sodium levels remain variable depending on your ingredient choices. Using low sodium beef broth and homemade taco seasoning instead of store-bought packets can significantly reduce the sodium content. We recommend this approach for those monitoring their sodium intake.
The dish provides essential vitamins and minerals from the colorful vegetables and tomatoes. Bell peppers contribute vitamin C and antioxidants, while tomatoes add lycopene and vitamin K. Onions and garlic provide additional antioxidants and flavor compounds that support overall health.
Our Spanish rice with ground beef offers a balanced macronutrient profile that satisfies hunger while providing quality nutrition. The combination of complete protein from beef, complex carbohydrates from rice, and beneficial nutrients from vegetables creates a wholesome meal that supports active lifestyles and growing families.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how this Spanish rice with ground beef recipe delivers everything you need for a successful weeknight dinner. It’s affordable nutritious and comes together in just 30 minutes with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous food lovers you can customize it to suit everyone’s taste preferences. From protein swaps to spice adjustments the possibilities are endless.
With proper storage techniques you’ll have delicious leftovers ready for busy days ahead. This one-pot wonder truly proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary family meals that everyone will request again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Spanish rice with ground beef?
This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The prep time is about 10 minutes for chopping vegetables and browning the ground beef, while the cooking time is approximately 18-20 minutes for the rice to simmer and absorb the flavors.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
While you can substitute brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts. Brown rice typically requires 45-50 minutes of cooking time and more broth. Long-grain white rice is recommended for the best texture and authentic flavor in this Tex-Mex dish.
What’s the best way to store leftover Spanish rice with ground beef?
Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze in portioned servings for up to 3 months. For best results, let the dish cool completely before storing to prevent condensation and maintain texture.
How do I reheat Spanish rice without making it mushy?
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, stirring gently. For microwave reheating, add a tablespoon of water and heat in 30-second intervals. Oven reheating at 350°F covered with foil also works well for larger portions.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or plant-based ground meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it completely vegetarian while maintaining the rich, savory flavors of the original recipe.
What toppings go best with Spanish rice and ground beef?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, diced avocado, green onions, and lime wedges. Pickled jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and hot sauce are also excellent additions that enhance the Tex-Mex flavors of the dish.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is excellent for meal prep. Cook the entire recipe, let it cool completely, then portion into individual containers. Keep fresh toppings separate until serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. It reheats beautifully throughout the week.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Control the heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot Rotel tomatoes. You can also adjust your homemade taco seasoning blend, add fresh jalapeños during cooking, or serve hot sauce on the side for individual preferences.
