Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

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Looking for a one-pan dinner that feels like comfort food but comes together in under 30 minutes? This Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet is your go-to recipe. Packed with bold flavors, tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and pops of corn and black beans, it’s the perfect weeknight meal when you need something hearty but fast.

Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, this skillet doesn’t disappoint. The blend of spices and the creaminess from melty cheese makes every bite crave-worthy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to work with leftover veggies or whatever you have in your pantry.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To nail this dish, here are the tools you need and why they matter:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is your main cooking vessel, so go for something deep and wide enough to hold all the ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gentle on your pan and perfect for breaking up the beef and stirring the rice evenly.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: To get the spice and broth ratio just right. Seasoning balance is everything in this recipe.
• Cutting Board & Knife: You’ll need these if you’re adding fresh toppings like tomatoes or cilantro.
• Lid for Skillet: Helps steam the rice and ensure it cooks all the way through while soaking up all those flavors.

Investing in these basic kitchen essentials makes your prep smoother and keeps cleanup minimal.

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Ingredients for the Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

• Ground Beef: The heart of the dish. Rich and savory, it brings the protein and the main flavor base.
• Rice: White long-grain rice works best here—it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and a hint of sweetness once cooked down.
• Garlic: Boosts the flavor with a punchy, savory note that’s essential in any Mexican-style dish.
• Tomato Sauce: Gives body and acidity to the skillet, helping marry the spices and beef.
• Taco Seasoning: The flavor hero! It ties everything together with bold Mexican-inspired spices.
• Black Beans: Offer creaminess and substance, making the dish more filling.
• Corn Kernels: Bring sweetness and texture to contrast with the beef and spices.
• Beef Broth: Adds moisture and helps cook the rice while enriching the overall flavor.
• Shredded Cheese: Melts into the dish for creamy bites and extra indulgence.
• Fresh Cilantro & Diced Tomatoes (Optional): For garnish and added freshness.

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How To Make the Super Easy Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in the Staples

Mix in the rice, tomato sauce, taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Let it Simmer

Cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Remove the lid, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and cover again for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes if desired.

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Serving and Storing Your Skillet

This skillet is a star straight off the stove, but it also plays well with others. Serve it in bowls with a side of tortilla chips or wrapped inside warm flour tortillas for an impromptu burrito night. A scoop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime brings extra zing.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and transfer it into airtight containers. Refrigerated, it stays fresh for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the simmering time and add more broth since brown rice takes longer to cook.

What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

You can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, and a touch of cayenne.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default. The spice level is mild, but you can easily turn up the heat with jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner option and still works beautifully in this dish.

Can I add other veggies?

Totally! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach make great additions and boost the nutrition.

How do I reheat it without drying it out?

Add a splash of broth or water to the skillet and reheat on low, covered, until warm and steamy.

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Want More Mexican-Inspired Skillet Ideas?

If you enjoyed this skillet, here are more one-pan meals with bold flavors you might love:

Try the Taco Bake Casserole if you’re craving a layered version baked to golden perfection. Or dive into the creamy kick of the One Skillet Smoky Honey Chili Beef Rice, which brings sweet heat to the table.

For a pasta twist, the Beef Enchilada Pasta combines cheesy comfort with Tex-Mex zest. And if you’re into creamy spice, don’t miss the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Need another rice-based idea? The One Pan Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sausage Rice delivers a bold BBQ twist.

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use beef or turkey? Did you top it with avocado or go classic with cheese and cilantro? Leave a comment below.

For more daily recipes, follow me on Pinterest @LadyPlate.

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