beef spanish rice recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
beef spanish rice recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best beef spanish rice recipe

I’ve been making this Beef Spanish Rice recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic dish that never fails to impress, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

I love how the flavors of the beef, rice, and spices all come together to create a delicious and savory meal. My family and kids adore it, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and effort. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.

I often serve it as a main course or use it as a side dish for larger meals. The combination of beef, rice, and spices gives this dish its unique flavor profile.

It’s also incredibly versatile – you can customize it to suit your tastes by adding different vegetables or spices. The beef adds a nice texture contrast to the soft rice, while the spices provide a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

This recipe is a great way to get your daily dose of protein, fiber, and vitamins without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

Beef Spanish Rice

Beef Spanish Rice

4.6 from 1846 votes

A hearty one-pot dish featuring seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions. This flavorful skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers classic Spanish flavors with minimal effort.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef and Rice

1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For Garnish (optional)

2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion and green bell pepper.
4Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 4 minutes.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6Add the rice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
7Stir to coat the rice with the spices and cook for 1 minute.
8Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
9Stir everything together and bring to a boil over high heat.
10Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 20 minutes.
11Do not lift the lid during this time.
12After 20 minutes, remove the lid and check that the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
13If the rice is still firm, cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
14Fluff with a fork and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 26g

📝Notes

For a spicier version, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper with the other spices. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Beef Spanish Rice Works

This beef spanish rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy to make and pleases a crowd. I often double the batch for family gatherings or potlucks, and there are never leftovers.

For storage, let the dish cool completely then keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water or broth per serving and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for two to three minutes. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

It also goes well with tortilla chips or a side of beans. This recipe is a reliable go to that always makes me feel like a good cook without much effort.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Spanish Rice

Q: What type of beef is best for this recipe?

This recipe works well with either ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips. Ground beef provides a heartier texture, while sliced beef offers a more delicate flavor experience.

Q: Can I use leftover cooked rice?

Yes, you can definitely use leftover cooked rice in this recipe. In fact, using leftover rice helps reduce food waste and saves you time in meal prep.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe typically takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but cook the final dish just before serving for optimal flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have saffron or paprika?

You can omit these spices if you don’t have them on hand or substitute with alternative spices like turmeric or cumin.

Similar Posts