Southwestern Beef and Rice Skillet

Total Time

Prep/Total Time: 30 min.

Makes

4 servings

Updated: Jan. 09, 2024
I like to serve this kicked-up skillet dish with warm flour tortillas and a side of guacamole. If you like things a little spicier, add more jalapeno and enjoy the heat! —Pat Hockett, Ocala, Florida

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium green pepper, chopped
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1-1/2 cups uncooked instant rice
  • 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes with mild green chiles
  • 1-1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, green pepper and jalapeno over medium heat until meat is no longer pink and vegetables are tender, 8-10 minutes, breaking beef into crumbles; drain.
  2. Add rice, tomatoes and chiles, broth and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer, covered, until liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Remove from heat; sprinkle with cheese. Let stand, covered, until cheese is melted.
Test Kitchen tips
  • If your family likes stuffed peppers, this deconstructed version is a snap to make on weeknights.
  • Leave some jalapeno pepper seeds in the dish if you like spicy foods; they'll add an extra kick.
  • Health tip
  • Make it healthier: Use instant brown rice instead of white, switch to reduced-sodium broth, skip the added salt and sprinkle with just ¼ cup sharp cheddar instead of 1 cup of the mild blend. The result: 400 calories, 13g fat and 540mg sodium per serving.
  • Nutrition Facts

    1-1/2 cups: 482 calories, 19g fat (8g saturated fat), 96mg cholesterol, 962mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber), 33g protein.