Save A vibrant, budget-friendly dish packed with pantry staples—perfect for quick dinners or meal prep, bursting with classic Mexican flavors in every bite.
I first tried making this one-pot Mexican rice & beans during a busy week, hoping for something fuss-free yet flavorful. It quickly became a staple thanks to its simplicity and bold, satisfying taste.
Ingredients
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup, rinsed
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Red bell pepper: diced
- Corn: 1 cup frozen or canned (drained if canned)
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14 oz/400 g) can, undrained
- Black beans: 1 (14 oz/400 g) can, drained and rinsed
- Vegetable broth: 2 cups (or chicken broth)
- Ground cumin: 1 ½ teaspoons
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ¾ teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh cilantro: chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges: for garnish (optional)
- Sliced jalapeños: for garnish (optional)
- Diced avocado: for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then sauté the onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add Veggies:
- Stir in the garlic and bell pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Toast Rice:
- Add the rice and stir to coat with the vegetables and oil. Toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, corn, black beans, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–22 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Rest:
- Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Finish & Serve:
- Fluff with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime, jalapeños, and avocado as desired.
Save This recipe is a hit even with picky eaters in my family—everyone loves loading up their bowls and choosing their favorite garnishes together around the table.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven with lid, cutting board and knife, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains none of the top 8 allergens if using vegetable broth. Double-check broth and canned goods for potential allergens or cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 335, Total Fat 4 g, Carbohydrates 64 g, Protein 10 g
Save Try this easy one-pot meal to bring color and comfort to your dinner table. You'll love its versatility and robust flavor!