Mexican Rice Skillet Recipe -

The Mexican Rice Skillet is a vibrant and hearty dish that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine. This one-pot meal combines the robust flavors of taco seasoning, salsa, and Rotel tomatoes with the wholesomeness of ground beef, rice, and corn. It's a perfect family meal that's not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for those busy weeknights. With a preparation time of under 30 minutes, this dish is a testament to the simplicity and flavor-packed nature of Mexican home cooking.

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 (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
1 ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Preparation:

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat it over medium-high. Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and brown it, ensuring to break it apart into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Step 2: Once the beef is browned, incorporate the finely chopped onions into the skillet. Continue to cook until the onions have softened and become translucent.
Step 3: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef and onion mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure the meat is evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 4: To the skillet, add the frozen corn kernels, salsa, uncooked long grain white rice, and the can of Rotel tomatoes. Pour in the chicken stock and stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 5: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

COOKING Note:

Ensure the skillet is covered while simmering to allow the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the ingredients. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check the liquid level to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Mexican Rice Skillet hot, garnished with melted cheddar cheese on top. For added freshness and a pop of color, you can top it with chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocados, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños.

Tips:

For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the ground meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Adjust the heat level by using mild or hot salsa and Rotel tomatoes according to your preference.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

20 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
Protein: 20-25g per serving
Sodium: 500-600 mg per serving

The Mexican Rice Skillet is a flavorful and satisfying dish that encapsulates the rich culinary heritage of Mexican cuisine. Its ease of preparation, coupled with the flexibility to adapt to different dietary preferences, makes it a versatile choice for any mealtime. Whether you're seeking a quick dinner solution or a delicious way to enjoy the tastes of Mexico, this skillet meal is sure to impress with its delightful combination of flavors and textures.