One-Pan Mexican Rice Beans (Print Version)

A vibrant dish with rice, beans, and Mexican spices cooked together in a single pan.

# Ingredient List:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

→ Beans

02 - 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
03 - 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

→ Vegetables

04 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
06 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

→ Liquids

09 - 2 cups vegetable broth (gluten-free if needed)
10 - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

→ Spices & Herbs

11 - 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
12 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
14 - ½ teaspoon dried oregano
15 - ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
16 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnishes (optional)

17 - ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
18 - 1 lime, cut into wedges
19 - ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or vegan alternative)
20 - Sliced avocado

# Recipe Steps:

01 - Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, then sauté the chopped onion and diced bell pepper for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
02 - Incorporate the seeded jalapeño and minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
03 - Add the rinsed white rice to the pan, stirring frequently to toast for 2 minutes.
04 - Stir in ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper evenly throughout the mixture.
05 - Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juices, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
06 - Mix in drained black beans, pinto beans, and corn kernels; bring the pan contents to a gentle simmer.
07 - Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
08 - Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
09 - Fluff the rice with a fork, then garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, shredded cheese, and sliced avocado as desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Easy one-pan meal for minimal cleanup
  • Hearty and vegetarian friendly with gluten-free options
02 -
  • Use gluten-free broth to keep the dish gluten-free
  • Brown rice can be substituted but requires more cooking time
03 -
  • Rinse rice thoroughly to prevent stickiness
  • Adjust spice levels by varying jalapeño quantity
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