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 remember the first time I made this one-pot Mexican rice & beans recipe for my family on a busy weeknight. Everyone loved how flavorful it was, and I appreciated having fewer dishes to clean up afterward!
Ingredients
- Rice & Grains: 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup frozen or canned corn (drained if canned); 1 (14 oz/400 g) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (14 oz/400 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- Liquids: 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Garnishes (optional): Fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges; Sliced jalapeños; Diced avocado
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.
- Cook Vegetables:
- 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 the 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 & Fluff:
- Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Serve:
- Fluff with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro, lime, jalapeños, and avocado as desired.
Save My kids love scooping this rice & beans into tortillas for homemade burritos—it always brings us together for a fun, casual dinner.
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 This one-pot recipe makes weeknight dinners easier while celebrating bold, comforting flavors. Enjoy it fresh, or pack leftovers for on-the-go meals!