One-Pan Mexican Rice Skillet: Your Go-To 30-Minute Weeknight Meal
In the whirlwind of busy weeknights, finding a delicious, wholesome meal that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen or an overwhelming pile of dishes can feel like a culinary quest. Enter the hero of hurried evenings: the one-pan skillet dinner. This Mexican Rice Skillet isn’t just a meal; it’s a promise of flavorful satisfaction and effortless cleanup, all ready in under 30 minutes. Imagine a robust blend of seasoned meat, tender rice, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese, all cooked to perfection in a single pan. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself turning to again and again.
My recent obsession with skillet dinners began with simple, comforting dishes like a Cheeseburger Macaroni Skillet. The sheer convenience of tossing everything into one pan, letting it simmer, and emerging with a complete meal changed my dinner game. No endless pots and pans, just straightforward cooking and minimal fuss. This philosophy perfectly aligns with Mexican cuisine, which often boasts incredible depth of flavor with simple, fresh ingredients.
Mexican food holds a special place in our hearts and on our dinner table. While dishes like our Enchilada Pasta Skillet are always a winning one-pan solution, I often crave that distinctive, savory Mexican rice you find at restaurants. That craving sparked the idea for this skillet meal: bringing together savory meat, aromatic rice, and all the essential Mexican-inspired fixings into one glorious pan. The result is a hearty, flavorful dinner that the entire family will adore.
The Unbeatable Appeal of Skillet Dinners
If you’re constantly seeking ways to simplify your kitchen routine without compromising on taste, skillet dinners are your culinary superpower. The core appeal lies in their efficiency: you typically use just one pan from start to finish. This translates to significantly less prep time and, crucially, a breeze of a cleanup after dinner. For anyone navigating the demands of work, school, and family life, the thought of scrubbing a mountain of pots and pans at the end of a long day can be daunting. With a one-pan Mexican rice skillet, those worries melt away faster than the cheese on top of your finished dish.
Beyond the practical advantages, skillet meals offer incredible versatility. You can often adapt them to whatever ingredients you have on hand, minimizing food waste and maximizing creativity. This Mexican rice skillet is a prime example, offering a complete and balanced meal – protein, grain, and vegetables – all cooked together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a hearty, satisfying option that feeds a family of six in about 25-30 minutes, making it an absolute lifesaver on those especially hectic weeknights.
What You’ll Need for Your Mexican Rice Skillet
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and readily available ingredients. You’ll find most of these staples in your pantry or a quick trip to the grocery store. Remember, for the full printable recipe card with exact measurements, always scroll to the bottom of the post!
- Ground Beef: We typically opt for lean ground beef to keep things a bit lighter, but this recipe is incredibly flexible. Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken for a different flavor profile or to suit dietary preferences. For a plant-based option, use a meat substitute or extra black beans and corn.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds a foundational layer of aromatic flavor. Sautéing it with the meat creates a sweet base that enhances the entire dish.
- Taco Seasoning: This is where a lot of the classic Mexican flavor comes in. A standard package works perfectly, but if you’re feeling ambitious or want to control the ingredients, consider using your Homemade Taco Seasoning blend. This allows you to adjust the spice level to your family’s liking.
- Corn Kernels: Frozen corn kernels are convenient and add a pop of sweetness and texture. However, fresh or canned corn works just as well. For a richer, earthier flavor, black beans are a fantastic addition, or even a substitute for the corn if preferred.
- Salsa: A good quality salsa is key! It brings acidity, spice, and moisture to the dish. Whether you prefer mild, medium, or hot, choose one your family enjoys. Our Restaurant Style Salsa is a great option if you want to make it from scratch.
- Long Grain White Rice: This is the grain that absorbs all those wonderful flavors. We use uncooked long grain white rice, which cooks perfectly in the skillet. If you prefer brown rice, note that cooking times and liquid amounts might need adjustment.
- Chicken Broth: The primary liquid for cooking the rice and creating a flavorful sauce. Chicken stock or vegetable broth can be used interchangeably, depending on what you have or dietary needs.
- Rotel Tomatoes: These are diced tomatoes with green chilies, offering a subtle heat and a bright, tangy element. They’re a staple in many Tex-Mex recipes and bring a fantastic depth of flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese provides a melty, savory topping that brings everything together. A Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for an extra kick would also be delicious.
Customizing Your Skillet to Perfection
One of the true joys of this Mexican rice skillet is its incredible adaptability. It’s a fantastic canvas for whatever ingredients you have on hand or any dietary preferences you’re accommodating. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!
- Protein Power: As mentioned, ground turkey or chicken are excellent lean alternatives to ground beef. For a vegetarian or vegan version, simply omit the meat and increase the amount of black beans or add plant-based ground crumbles. You could also include strips of seasoned chicken breast or steak for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost: While corn is classic, consider adding diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) for color and extra nutrients. Sauté them with the onions and meat for maximum flavor. Diced zucchini or even a handful of spinach could also be stirred in during the simmering stage.
- Spice It Up: If your family loves a little heat, add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onion. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the spice level without altering the texture.
- Rice Alternatives: For a low-carb version, cauliflower rice can be a great substitute. Just be sure to adjust the liquid amount and cooking time significantly, as cauliflower rice requires much less cooking. You could also experiment with brown rice, keeping in mind it will extend the cooking time.
- Bean Bonanza: Black beans are a natural fit for this dish, adding fiber and protein. Kidney beans or pinto beans could also work well if you’re looking for different textures or flavors.
Essential Toppings to Elevate Your Skillet
While the Mexican rice skillet is incredibly flavorful on its own, a generous array of toppings can take it from great to truly extraordinary. Think of your favorite taco or burrito bowl toppings – they’ll all be fantastic here! Toppings add layers of fresh flavor, contrasting textures, and a beautiful visual appeal. Here are some of our top picks:
- Diced Avocado: Creamy, rich, and provides a lovely coolness against the warm rice.
- Black Olives: A salty, briny burst that complements the other flavors.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh acidity and a bright, juicy texture.
- Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt): Offers a cooling, tangy counterpoint, perfect for balancing any spice. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative with a similar tang.
- Jalapenos: Fresh or pickled, for those who love an extra kick of heat.
- Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a vibrant, herbaceous aroma and flavor that is quintessentially Mexican.
- Homemade Guacamole: For an extra indulgence, creamy guacamole is always a hit.
- Fire Roasted Salsa: If you want a more complex, smoky salsa experience beyond the one used in the dish itself.
These toppings allow everyone at the table to customize their bowl, ensuring every bite is exactly how they like it.
How to Make Your Easy Mexican Rice Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this flavorful one-pan meal is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect Mexican rice skillet every time:
- Brown the Meat & Sauté Onions: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef (or chosen protein) and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s mostly browned, drain any excess fat. Then, add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and continue to cook until the onions are soft and translucent, usually about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base. Stir in the taco seasoning, ensuring the meat and onions are evenly coated. The seasoning will toast slightly, releasing its full aroma.
- Combine All Ingredients & Simmer: Now it’s time to bring the dish to life! Add the frozen corn kernels (or black beans), salsa, uncooked long grain white rice, Rotel tomatoes (undrained), and chicken stock to the skillet. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure the rice is submerged in the liquid and everything is well combined. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover the skillet tightly with a lid, and let it cook for approximately 15-20 minutes. The lid is essential as it traps the steam, allowing the rice to cook perfectly and absorb the liquid. The rice should be tender, and most of the liquid should be absorbed.
- Melt the Cheese: Once the rice is cooked through, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the entire dish. Place the lid back on the skillet (or cover with foil) for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. The residual heat will do all the work, creating a wonderfully cheesy crust.
- Serve with Desired Toppings: Remove the skillet from the heat. Now comes the fun part – customize each serving with your favorite fresh toppings! Scoop generous portions into bowls and let everyone add their preferred avocado, sour cream, cilantro, or any other delicious additions. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick, satisfying, and easy one-pan meal!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? You’re in luck! This Mexican rice skillet reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week. To store, transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for 4-5 days. When ready to reheat, you can use the microwave for individual portions, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, for larger amounts, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of extra chicken broth or water if the rice seems too dry, until warmed completely.
What to Serve With Your Mexican Rice Skillet
While this Mexican rice skillet is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side can enhance the dining experience and offer a refreshing contrast in flavors and textures.
- Tossed Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad provides a welcome lightness and crunch.
- Berry Fruit Salad: The sweetness and acidity of a fruit salad can be a delightful palate cleanser.
- Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette: For a salad that truly complements the Mexican flavors, a zesty cilantro lime dressing is perfect.
- Southern Style Cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread offers a comforting, savory accompaniment.
- Warm Tortillas or Tortilla Chips: For scooping up every last bit of that delicious rice!
More One-Pan Dinner Ideas to Love
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and flavor of this Mexican Rice Skillet, you’ll be thrilled to discover there’s a whole world of one-pan meals waiting for you. The versatility of a single skillet allows for endless culinary creativity, transforming busy evenings into opportunities for delicious, low-stress dinners. For those who enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine, be sure to check out our One Pan Southwest Chicken Skillet – it offers a similar concept with tender chicken and an equally delightful flavor profile. Or, for an incredibly simple chicken dish, try our Southwest Baked Chicken, requiring just four ingredients!
Here are more of our favorite one-pan dinner ideas that make weeknights a breeze:
- One Pot Beef Stroganoff: A creamy, comforting classic made with minimal cleanup.
- Creamy Chicken and Rice: A rich and satisfying meal that cooks entirely on the stovetop.
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp: A quick and flavorful seafood option that comes together in minutes.
- Cheesy Sausage Pasta: A family favorite, combining savory sausage with comforting pasta and cheese.
- Pizza Chicken: All the flavors of pizza, but in a healthy, easy-to-make chicken dish.
Mexican Rice Skillet
Erin Sellin
5
20
25
6
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Video
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes
- 1 ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Toppings
- Black Olives
- Tomatoes
- Avocado
- Sour Cream
- Cilantro
Instructions
-
In a large skillet over medium high heat brown grown beef, breaking apart. Add onions, and cook until soft. Stir in taco seasoning until the meat is evenly coated.1 pound lean ground beef,
1 cup onion,
1 package taco seasoning -
Add corn kernels, salsa, rice, tomatoes, and chicken stock. Stir until well mixed. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through, and most of the liquid is absorbed.1 cup frozen corn kernels,
1 cup salsa,
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice,
2 cups chicken stock,
1 10 oz can Rotel tomatoes -
Sprinkle cheese over the top of the dish. Cover and heat until cheese is melted.1 ½ cup cheddar cheese
-
Top with desired toppings to serve.Black Olives,
Tomatoes,
Avocado,
Sour Cream,
Cilantro
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 26g |
Protein: 33g |
Fat: 20g |
Saturated Fat: 9g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 98mg |
Sodium: 1017mg |
Fiber: 2g |
Sugar: 6g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Erin Sellin
5
20
25
Dinner Recipes
American
6
417
Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!
I created a fun group on Facebook, and I would love for you to join us! It’s a place where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask questions, and see what’s new at Dinners, Dishes and Desserts (so that you never miss a new recipe)!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU make!
Be sure to follow me on my social media, so you never miss a post!
Facebook |
Twitter |
Pinterest |
Instagram