Spanish Rice With Beef

Spanish Rice with Beef is a flavorful, hearty dish that combines tender ground beef with seasoned rice, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and satisfying dinner that’s packed with bold flavors. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and onions infuses the rice with a rich, savory taste, while the beef adds protein to make it a complete meal. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable—perfect for adding vegetables or adjusting the spice level to your liking. Serve it as a main dish or a delicious side for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika for more depth)
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 2–3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the rice and seasonings: Stir in the rice, cumin, paprika, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and the spices to become fragrant.
4. Add the liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Fluff and serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

This Spanish Rice with Beef is perfect on its own or as a filling for tacos or burritos, bringing a burst of flavor to any meal!