Oh my goodness, have you ever had one of those days where you just can’t figure out what to make for dinner? I know I have. Let me tell you, that’s when this One-Pot Spanish Rice with Ground Beef becomes my saving grace! It’s like a treasure trove of flavor all packed into one pot, and the best part? Clean-up is a breeze!
This dish not only satisfies my craving for something hearty and filling but also transports me to the vibrant streets of Spain with each savory bite. I remember the first time I whipped this up for my family – they practically cleared their plates and asked for seconds. Nothing betters a weekday dinner slump than a delicious meal that tastes like you put in hours of effort. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this dish!
What’s in One-Pot Spanish Rice with Ground Beef?
Let’s break it down – each ingredient in this delightful recipe brings its own flair and personality! Here’s the scoop:
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I typically prefer 80/20 ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and fat. Searing it adds a nice depth to the dish, really setting the tone.
Uncooked Long-Grain White Rice: I find that long-grain rice gives a lovely texture while soaking up all those fantastic flavors. Make sure it’s uncooked, so it can absorb all that tasty liquid!
Onion: Diced onion adds a punch of sweetness and depth. I usually go for a medium onion because it strikes the right balance without overpowering.
Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic make everything better, don’t they? Garlic adds warmth and depth. It’s my secret weapon for flavor!
Tomatoes with Green Chilies: A can of diced tomatoes with green chilies introduces both acidity and a little kick. The juices are essential for cooking the rice.
Corn: Depending on what’s available, fresh, frozen, or canned corn will work. It adds a delightful sweetness and texture to the dish.
Beef Broth and Water: These provide the cooking liquid for the rice; I always use low-sodium beef broth to control the flavor and salt levels.
Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika: These spices not only give this dish its Spanish flair, but they also add a delicious warmth and complexity. A big thumbs up from the spice rack!
Salt and Pepper: These are key to bringing all the flavors together. Adjust to your liking!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing note as a garnish. I can’t have enough of this herb in my cooking!
Sliced Green Onions: If you’re a toppings fan, green onions add a burst of color and slight crunch. Plus, they look so pretty.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime before serving elevates the dish with zesty brightness. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Is One-Pot Spanish Rice with Ground Beef Good for You?
Ah, the million-dollar question! This dish does have its health benefits while still being indulgent and comforting, which I totally love.
Ground Beef: Provides a protein punch, which is essential for muscle health. Just be mindful of the fat content; if you prefer leaner meat, ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute!
Rice: All those carbs give you energy, making it perfect for those busy evenings. Opting for brown rice can up your fiber and nutrient game if you’re feeling healthy!
Tomatoes: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, tomatoes bring a refreshing taste while providing health benefits, including heart health!
Cilantro: This herb doesn’t just taste fantastic, but it’s also loaded with antioxidants and is known for its potential detoxifying properties.
That said, let’s not forget; this dish does carry some sodium because of the broth and tomatoes. It’s good to enjoy this flavorful dish in moderation if you’re watching your intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
– Sliced green onions (for garnish, optional)
– Lime wedges (for serving, optional)
Serves: 4-6 people
How to Make One-Pot Spanish Rice with Ground Beef?
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent, making your kitchen smell heavenly!
3. Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), corn, beef broth, water, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix so everything is combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
5. After cooking, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This is key for those fluffy rice grains!
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in fresh cilantro. Take a moment to adjust the seasoning if needed – it should taste just right!
7. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and lime wedges if desired. Enjoy your flavorful one-pot Spanish rice with ground beef!
Delicious Tips & Tricks to Enhance Your Dish!
– Want to switch it up? You can add bell peppers or even jalapeños for a spicier kick!
– Love cheese? Sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar on top for an irresistible cheesy goodness!
– Pair this dish with a fresh side salad or some tortilla chips for a full-on fiesta feel.
– Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days – just reheat and enjoy!
Give this recipe a whirl, and I promise you’ll be met with smiles all around the dinner table. Plus, I’d absolutely love to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking, my friends!
