Name: Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, roughly diced; 1 cup corn (1 can, drained); 10 oz ROTEL tomatoes with green chiles (1 can); 15 oz black beans (1 can, drained and rinsed); 2 cups beef broth; 3 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 cup jasmine rice, uncooked; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Pico de gallo; Sour cream; Fresh lime

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you are craving a dish that is bursting with vibrant flavors and perfect comfort food all wrapped into one pot, this Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe is absolutely going to become your new weeknight superstar. It combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables cooked in a zesty blend of taco seasoning and ROTEL tomatoes, delivering a fiesta of taste with every bite. The best part? It’s so straightforward and quick to prepare, making it an irresistible choice when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need

A round black pan filled with six sections of different ingredients arranged side by side: cooked ground beef with small pieces of onions in a light brown color on the bottom left, bright yellow corn kernels above the beef, shiny black beans next to the corn, finely chopped red tomatoes on the top, white uncooked rice to the right of the tomatoes, and chopped green bell peppers next to the rice. In the center, there is a small mound of reddish-brown taco seasoning spice. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is what makes this dish both achievable and delicious. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the hearty ground beef adding protein and richness, to the bright veggies that contribute color and freshness, and the spices that bring the dish to life with authentic Mexican flair.

1 lb lean ground beef: Provides a rich, savory base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.

1 onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
1 green bell pepper (roughly diced): Gives a crunchy texture and fresh, slightly bitter contrast.
1 cup corn (1 can drained): Offers a pop of sweetness and pleasing bite.

10 oz ROTEL tomatoes with green chiles (1 can): Delivers juicy acidity and a subtle spicy kick.
15 oz black beans (1 can drained and rinsed): Boosts fiber and adds creamy earthiness.
2 cups beef broth: Infuses the rice and beef with savory moisture and richness.

3 tablespoon taco seasoning: A blend of spices that gives this dish its irresistible Mexican character.
1 cup jasmine rice (uncooked): The fluffy rice soaks up every drop of flavor while tender and light.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Adds gooey, melty creaminess that crowns the dish perfectly.

Fresh cilantro (chopped): Brings a fresh, herbaceous brightness to finish.
Pico de gallo: A zesty topping that adds vibrant texture and acidity.
Sour cream: For a smooth, cooling contrast to the spices.

Fresh lime: Adds a zingy brightness that wakes up every mouthful.

How to Make Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Onions

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef along with the chopped onions. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the beef is nicely browned and the onions have softened. Browning the beef not only locks in flavor but also creates a wonderful base that will carry all the seasonings and ingredients to come. Once browned, drain off any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily.

Step 2: Add Vegetables, Beans, and Seasonings

Next, toss in the diced green bell pepper, corn, black beans, and the can of ROTEL tomatoes with green chiles. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle the taco seasoning over everything. Add the jasmine rice last and stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed. This step is where all the magic happens—combining fresh, hearty, and spicy elements that will marry while the rice cooks.

Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Turn the heat up to bring the skillet mixture to a boil, then cover it and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice absorbs all the flavorful broth and becomes tender. This simmering time creates a satisfying texture in the rice and lets the spices infuse every grain, transforming humble ingredients into something extraordinary.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Melt

When the rice is perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then replace the lid and let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese melts gloriously. This step adds a creamy, cheesy layer that pulls the dish together just right, adding an indulgent touch without overwhelming the fresh flavors underneath.

How to Serve Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe

A black cast iron skillet filled with a colorful mix of cooked ground meat, green bell pepper chunks, black beans, corn kernels, white rice, and small pieces of red tomato, all evenly spread in the pan on a white marbled surface. The ingredients show a mix of textures with soft cooked meat, firm vegetables, and fluffy rice throughout, giving a vibrant and fresh look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Choosing the right garnishes elevates the dish and injects freshness. Sprinkle chopped cilantro generously across the top for a burst of herbal brightness. Add spoonfuls of pico de gallo to introduce additional texture and tang. A dollop of cool sour cream helps to balance the spices, while a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens every bite with citrusy zing. Together, these toppings add personality and fun to the meal.

Side Dishes

While the Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe can truly stand on its own, pairing it with some crunchy tortilla chips or a simple green salad helps round out the meal. You could also serve it alongside refried beans or warm flour tortillas if you want to amp up the Tex-Mex vibe. These sides add variety and give your meal that satisfying, well-rounded feel.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider turning this dish into a festive taco bowl by layering the mixture in individual bowls and topping with guacamole and sliced jalapeños. Or spoon it into warm tortilla shells along with shredded lettuce and salsa for handheld goodness. It also makes for an excellent filling in stuffed bell peppers if you want a slightly different presentation. The flexibility here lets you keep dinner exciting no matter how often you make this recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor. It’s a convenient leftovers option that tastes just as vibrant the next day, making lunch or dinner a stress-free affair.

Freezing

If you want to save portions for later, freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing is a fantastic way to keep this crowd-pleaser handy for busy nights when time is tight but hunger is big.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of beef broth or water helps keep the rice from drying out during reheating. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as when freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! While jasmine rice is recommended for its fragrant aroma and light texture, you can substitute long grain white rice or even brown rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially with brown rice, which usually needs more liquid and longer simmering.

Is this recipe spicy?

This Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the ROTEL tomatoes with green chiles and taco seasoning. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Conversely, if you want it milder, reduce the seasoning or omit spicy garnishes.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! To keep it vegetarian, simply swap the ground beef with plant-based ground crumbles or extra beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and the rest of the recipe remains the same. This way, you maintain the hearty, comforting feel with a meat-free twist.

What can I use if I don’t have ROTEL tomatoes?

If ROTEL tomatoes aren’t on hand, substitute with diced tomatoes and add a bit of diced green chilies or jalapeños for the spicy kick. Fresh tomatoes can work too, though canned help maintain consistent flavor and texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly after adding the cheese?

It’s best to freeze the casserole before adding the cheese topping. Cheese texture can change after freezing and reheating, becoming a little crumbly. Add fresh cheese or even sprinkle shredded cheese after reheating for the best texture and flavor experience.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll return to again and again. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor, showing how simple ingredients can come together for a satisfying meal. Give it a try tonight and see how this hearty, cheesy, and vibrant recipe can easily become a staple in your dinner rotation. You’ll love the warmth it brings to the table and the smiles it inspires!

Easy Mexican Ground Beef and Rice Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need