Spanish Rice with Ground Beef
A delightful blend of fragrant spices, tender ground beef, and fluffy rice that creates a comforting and richly flavored dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Tender and juicy, providing a hearty base for your meal.
- 1 cup long grain white rice Fluffy and light, it absorbs all the delicious flavors around it.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with juice Sweet and tangy, bringing a vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds a sharp and sweet flavor that perfectly complements the beef.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped red or green A pop of color and crispness that enhances the dish's texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fragrant and robust, infusing the dish with deep flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth or water Rich and savory, creating a loving environment for the rice to cook.
- 1 tbsp chili powder Adds a warm and zesty kick that livens up the dish.
- 1 tsp cumin Earthy and slightly nutty, it rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tsp paprika Smoky and sweet, adding an extra layer of complexity.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings to elevate the flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Smooth and rich, essential for sautéing our vegetables.
- as needed fresh cilantro for garnish Bright and fresh, adding a beautiful finish to our dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and bell pepper, cooking until they are soft.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet.
- Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, and paprika over the beef mixture.
- Stir well to coat all the meat and vegetables evenly.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir in the rice.
- Combine all ingredients well, bringing a burst of color and flavor together.
- Pour in 2 cups of beef broth or water, stirring gently.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
Use high-quality beef broth for better flavor. Browning the meat adds depth. Fluff the rice instead of stirring to prevent it from becoming mushy. Adjust the spice level to your preference.