Mexican Rice Skillet

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Looking for a delicious one-pan meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for those busy weeknights? Look no further than this mouthwatering Mexican Rice Skillet recipe! Loaded with lean ground beef, colorful veggies, and zesty spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it ideal for hectic schedules. Serve it up with your favorite toppings for a customizable dinner option that’s as tasty as it is satisfying.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 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 shredded cheddar cheese

Toppings:

  • Black olives
  • Tomatoes
  • Avocado
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro

Directions:

  1. Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, mixing it in with the ground beef.
  3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and onion mixture, stirring well to ensure that the meat is evenly coated with the flavorful spices.
  4. Toss in the frozen corn kernels, salsa, uncooked rice, Rotel tomatoes, and chicken stock, stirring everything together until it’s well combined.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow it to simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. Once the rice is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese has melted.
  7. Serve the Mexican Rice Skillet hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, creamy avocado slices, dollops of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Customizable Toppings: Set out a variety of toppings like sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, creamy avocado slices, tangy sour cream, and fresh cilantro so everyone can personalize their servings according to their taste preferences.
  2. Fresh Sides: Pair your Mexican Rice Skillet with some fresh sides like a crisp green salad, homemade guacamole, or zesty salsa for a complete and satisfying meal.
  3. Family Style: Serve the skillet straight from the pan at the dinner table for a cozy and communal dining experience that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to the container to maintain its freshness.
  2. Freezing: This dish also freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
  3. Individual Portions: Consider dividing any leftovers into individual portions before refrigerating or freezing for easier reheating and serving later on. This way, you can simply grab a portion whenever you’re in need of a quick and convenient meal.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: Swap the lean ground beef for cooked black beans or lentils to create a hearty vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
  2. Chicken Twist: Replace the ground beef with diced cooked chicken breast or thigh meat for a lighter alternative. Season the chicken with taco seasoning or your favorite spices before adding it to the skillet.
  3. Seafood Delight: For a seafood twist, try using cooked shrimp or chunks of white fish like cod or tilapia instead of ground beef. Simply add the seafood towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
  4. Spicy Kick: Kick up the heat by adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet along with the other ingredients. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra spicy boost.
  5. Cheesy Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend cheese for a cheesier version of this dish. You can also add a layer of cheese on top before serving for an extra melty finish.
  6. Grain Options: Switch out the white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. Adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly based on the type of grain or rice substitute you choose.
  7. Tex-Mex Flavors: Enhance the flavors by adding a tablespoon of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the skillet. This will give the dish a smoky and complex flavor profile reminiscent of Tex-Mex cuisine.
  8. Fajita Style: Transform this recipe into fajita-inspired skillet by omitting the rice and serving the beef and veggie mixture with warm tortillas. Top with your favorite fajita toppings like sliced bell peppers, onions, guacamole, and salsa for a delicious handheld meal.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
    • Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
  2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
    • Absolutely! Just ensure that the taco seasoning you use is gluten-free, or make your own using gluten-free spices. Additionally, double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially if using store-bought salsa.
  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the skillet up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to moisten the rice.
  4. What can I do if I don’t have Rotel tomatoes?
    • If you don’t have Rotel tomatoes on hand, you can substitute them with an equal amount of diced tomatoes and a small can of diced green chilies for a similar flavor profile.
  5. How spicy is this dish?
    • The spiciness level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use mild salsa and reduce the amount of taco seasoning. For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  6. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock?
    • Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken stock if you prefer a vegetarian version of this dish. It will still impart great flavor to the skillet.

With its bold flavors and simple preparation, this Mexican Rice Skillet is a winner for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or whipping up a quick meal for yourself, this dish delivers on taste and convenience. So, why wait? Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and satisfying dinner that’s sure to impress!