This classic skillet Spanish rice is hearty, flavorful, and exactly the kind of one-pan meal that makes weeknights easier. Savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and warm spices simmer together with rice and tomatoes to create a dish that’s bold, comforting, and deeply satisfying. The aroma alone; cumin, chili powder, and paprika blooming in the pan; lets you know dinner is going to be good.
What I love most about this recipe is how practical it is. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and made with ingredients I almost always have on hand. I’ve made this when I needed a fast dinner that everyone would eat, and it never disappoints. My family loves it as-is, but it’s also great with a little shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top.
This is one of those reliable recipes you’ll keep coming back to when you need something easy and comforting. Love this recipe? Pin it to your Easy One-Pan Dinners board on Pinterest so you don’t lose it.
Classic Skillet Spanish Rice
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes25
minutes420
kcalA hearty one-skillet Spanish rice made with ground beef, vegetables, tomatoes, and warm spices.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
1 medium bell pepper, chopped
½ cup celery, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup Minute Rice
1 cup beef broth, prepared with Better Than Bouillon
1 can diced tomatoes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, about 165°C / 325°F, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, thyme, oregano, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to bloom the spices.
- Add the Minute Rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil at 100°C / 212°F.
- Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, fluff gently with a fork, and serve warm.
Cooking Notes
- Drain excess grease from the beef to prevent a heavy texture.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to keep rice from sticking.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
Estimated Nutrition per Serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Fat: 22 g
- Carb: 34 g
- Protein: 22 g
Recipe Science
Spanish rice dishes rely on starch absorption and spice blooming. Quick-cooking rice absorbs seasoned liquid rapidly, allowing flavors from spices, tomatoes, and broth to distribute evenly throughout the dish.
Blooming spices in fat before adding liquid releases fat-soluble aromatic compounds, which intensify flavor without increasing seasoning amounts. Tomatoes contribute acidity, balancing the richness of beef while also aiding moisture retention during simmering.
Sodium levels are High (over 20% DV per serving), largely from broth and Worcestershire sauce. Using reduced-sodium broth or bouillon and seasoning at the end can help manage overall sodium intake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Dinner: Easy cleanup and simple steps.
- Bold, Cozy Flavor: Warm spices and savory beef.
- Family-Friendly: Filling and approachable.
- Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully.
FAQ
- Can I use regular rice instead of Minute Rice?: Yes; increase liquid and simmer time accordingly.
- Can I make this ahead of time?: Absolutely; refrigerate up to 3 days.
- What can I serve with it?: A green salad, cornbread, or tortilla chips pair well.
Conclusion
This Spanish rice is proof that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying meals. Make it your own, adjust the spices to taste, and enjoy the ease of a one-pan dinner. Happy cooking, and enjoy every comforting bite. What toppings do you like to add to your Spanish rice?
