spanish rice and ground beef recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best spanish rice and ground beef recipe

I’ve been making Spanish rice and ground beef for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. This recipe is a staple in many Latin American households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, flavorful, and filling.

The dish originated in Spain, but was brought to the Americas by Spanish settlers, where it evolved over time to incorporate local ingredients and flavors. The result is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

My kids love it because it’s a fun twist on regular old rice and ground beef, and I love it because it’s so easy to customize with whatever ingredients I have on hand. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main dish, or use it as a side.

And because it makes such a big batch, I can easily freeze leftovers for future meals. In fact, I often make double batches just so I have some set aside for later.

It’s also a great way to get your daily dose of veggies in – just add some diced bell peppers or onions to the mix and you’re golden! Plus, the flavors meld together so beautifully after a day or two in the fridge – it’s like a party in your mouth!

And don’t even get me started on the leftovers – this dish reheats beautifully and is always just as tasty if not more so after sitting in the fridge overnight. Whether you’re cooking for one or ten, this Spanish rice and ground beef recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Spanish Rice and Ground Beef

4.6 from 1411 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender ground beef and aromatic Spanish rice. This comforting meal is perfect for a family dinner and can be easily customized with additional vegetables or spices.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Spanish Rice

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Ground Beef

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet, over medium heat, add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2Drain excess fat.
Set aside.
3In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil.
4Add onion, garlic and bell pepper.
5Sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
6Stir in rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
7Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to coat the rice with oil and spices.
8Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
9Stir well to combine.
10Bring to a boil.
11Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
12Fluff with a fork and set aside.
13In a separate bowl, mix cooked ground beef with remaining cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Stir well.
14Add the cooked ground beef to the rice mixture and stir to combine.
15Turn off the heat and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
16This allows the flavors to meld together.
17Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add additional vegetables like peas or carrots to the rice mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the rice mixture.

Watch Video Of How Spanish Rice and Ground Beef Works

This Spanish rice and ground beef recipe is one of my go-tos when I need something hearty and comforting on the table fast. It’s also ridiculously easy to customize with whatever ingredients I have on hand – whether that means swapping out the meat or adding extra veggies.

And let’s be real – who doesn’t love leftovers? This dish reheats beautifully and tastes just as delicious after sitting in the fridge overnight as it does when first made.

Plus, with all those veggies mixed in there’s no need to feel guilty about serving seconds (or thirds). So go ahead and give this one a try next time you’re looking for something new – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spanish Rice and Ground Beef

Q: What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use either white or brown rice for this recipe – both will work beautifully. If you want to get fancy, you can even try using different types of rice like jasmine or basmati. Just keep in mind that these will change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want to reduce the fat content of the dish or if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: Do I have to use canned tomatoes?

A: No way! While canned tomatoes are convenient and work well in this recipe, you can also use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season. Just chop them up finely before adding them to the pan.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe ahead of time – just prepare everything up through the step where you add the seasonings and then refrigerate until ready to serve. If you’re making it ahead by more than an hour or two, consider freezing until ready to reheat.

Q: How do I store leftover Spanish rice and ground beef?

A: You can store leftover Spanish rice and ground beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

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