There’s nothing quite like a skillet full of warm, cheesy Mexican rice — especially when it comes together in just one pot with minimal cleanup. This Easy Peasy Mexican Rice is a total weeknight hero. Loaded with ground beef, rice, sweet corn, salsa, and melty cheese, it’s the kind of dish that feeds your cravings and your crowd.
It’s got all the flavors of your favorite taco night packed into a comforting skillet. Even better? The rice cooks right in the sauce, absorbing every drop of bold flavor. If you’re looking for an effortless dinner that everyone at the table will love (and ask for seconds), this is it.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-pan magic – everything cooks in a single skillet
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Ready in under 30 minutes – weeknight lifesaver
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Customizable – add beans, peppers, or extra spice
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Cheesy and satisfying – melty goodness in every bite
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Great for leftovers – tastes even better the next day
Ingredients
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1 small onion, diced
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1 pound ground beef
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2 tbsp taco seasoning
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ cup salsa
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup white rice
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1 ½ cups beef broth
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8 ounces tomato sauce
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1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
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1 cup Fiesta blend shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
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In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion.
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Season with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and garlic powder.
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Stir until well combined and the beef is fully cooked.
Step 2: Add the Rice and Liquids
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Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, drained corn, salsa, and white rice.
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Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
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Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
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Once the rice is fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
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Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 5 minutes.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
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Use long grain white rice for the best texture
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Swap in ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter version
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Add black beans or chopped bell peppers for extra bulk
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Spice it up with diced jalapeños or hot salsa
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Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or avocado slices
Final Thoughts
This Easy Peasy Mexican Rice recipe hits all the right notes — hearty, flavorful, budget-friendly, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pot wonder delivers big time. The combo of tender rice, seasoned beef, and melted cheese makes it feel indulgent while still being incredibly easy to throw together.
Pair it with a green salad or tuck it into burritos for a totally stress-free meal. No matter how you serve it, it’s going to be a hit.
Share Your Creations
Tried this Mexican rice skillet? I’d love to see your spin on it!
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Did you go spicy or mild?
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Add beans, jalapeños, or other veggies?
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Swap out proteins?
Snap a pic and tag me on social — or leave a comment with your favorite variation. Let's keep the easy, cheesy, and flavorful meals going strong!
Easy Peasy Mexican Rice
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion.
- Season with salt, pepper, taco seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Stir until well combined and the beef is fully cooked.
- Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, drained corn, salsa, and white rice.
- Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once the rice is fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
