Let me tell you, there’s something incredibly comforting about a big pot of Spanish Rice with Ground Beef bubbling away on the stove. This is one of those recipes that always takes me back to simpler times, when my mom would whip it up for dinner after a long day. The smell of sautéed onions, garlic, and spices always made my mouth water and my heart swell with warmth. Plus, it’s the perfect one-pan dish that captures a medley of flavors while still being super easy to prepare!
Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy dinner or looking for a family-friendly meal that even the pickiest eaters will love, this Spanish Rice with Ground Beef never fails to impress. Stick around as I share some tips and tricks to make this delicious dish even better!
What’s in Spanish Rice with Ground Beef?
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients, shall we? Each one plays an essential role in creating that delightful flavor profile we’re after!
Ground Beef: The heartiness of ground beef brings everything together. I usually go for lean ground beef to keep the dish a bit lighter, but feel free to use what you love!
Long-Grain White Rice: A classic base for this dish, long-grain white rice absorbs all those delicious juices, becoming perfectly fluffy — yum!
Diced Tomatoes: A must-have for that rich, tangy flavor. I love using the ones with juice; it adds depth to the sauce that you just can’t beat.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These veggies add sweetness and crunch! Red or green bell pepper works, depending on what you have on hand or your color preference.
Garlic: Oh, garlic! It adds that aromatic note that instantly elevates any dish.
Beef Broth: For flavor galore! If you’re aiming to keep it on the lighter side, water works just fine, but beef broth gives a richness that’s hard to resist.
Chili Powder, Cumin, and Paprika: These spices are the secret to getting that authentic Spanish vibe. They add warmth and a hint of smokiness that make the whole dish sing.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony.
Olive Oil: A splash of this liquid gold is all you need to get those veggies cooking and caramelized just right.
Fresh Cilantro: For a fresh finishing touch! It not only looks beautiful but also adds a burst of freshness.
Is Spanish Rice with Ground Beef Good for You?
Now let’s chat about the health side! This Spanish Rice with Ground Beef can be a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation.
Ground Beef: While it’s an excellent source of protein and iron, opting for lean ground beef can help you maintain a balanced diet without too much saturated fat.
Rice: We all know carbs can get a bad rap, but when paired with protein and veggies, they provide a satisfying energy source. If you’re looking for a nutrition boost, consider switching to brown rice!
Veggies: The bell pepper and onion not only provide flavor but also essential vitamins and fiber, which is always a win.
However, it is essential to watch the sodium content, especially if using store-bought broth and canned tomatoes. Choosing low-sodium versions can help keep this dish healthier without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth (or water)
– 1 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
*This recipe serves about 4 people — perfect for dinner or lunch leftovers!*
How to Make Spanish Rice with Ground Beef?
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to bring this delicious meal together step by step:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Now stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Savory Secrets for Spanish Rice Bliss
Thinking of ways to spice it up? Here are some of my favorite variations and tips:
– For extra flavor, you can add a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of queso fresco when serving.
– Want some heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, top it off with a fried egg — trust me, it’s a game-changer!
– Leftovers make for an excellent burrito filling or a stuffing for bell peppers. Just pack it in and bake until heated through!
I hope you feel inspired to whip up a batch of this Spanish Rice with Ground Beef! It’s a dish that really warms both the heart and the belly, and I guarantee it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too. And when you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out and any little tweaks you made along the way. Happy cooking!
