Texas Rice

This Texas Rice recipe is a bold and satisfying one-pan dish that brings big southern flavor to your dinner table. Loaded with savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and tender rice simmered in tomato sauce and broth, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Every bite is full of smoky, spiced richness balanced by sweet peppers and juicy tomatoes. What makes this dish extra special is how effortlessly it comes together. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen—just a few pantry staples and one skillet. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own or pair beautifully with cornbread, a side salad, or even a fried egg on top. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy nights, this Texas Rice is the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 1 1/2 cups beef broth

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

2. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

4. Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Stir in the rice and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 375 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Comforting Origins of Texas Rice

Texas Rice is a hearty, one-skillet meal that perfectly captures the essence of Southern comfort food. With roots in Tex-Mex cuisine, this dish blends traditional Mexican-inspired spices with classic American ingredients like ground beef and white rice. Its evolution is closely tied to the culinary traditions of Texas, where bold flavors and satisfying portions are always front and center. Originally developed as a practical, filling family meal, Texas Rice has stood the test of time because of its affordability, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavors.

While some versions of rice dishes may be dry or bland, Texas Rice is anything but. The addition of tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, and beef broth keeps the rice tender and rich, while the seasonings—like cumin, chili powder, and paprika—infuse the dish with depth and spice. It’s a fusion of cultures in one pan, making it not just a Southern favorite but also a gateway to introducing Tex-Mex flavors into everyday meals.

Why Texas Rice Is a Weeknight Hero

One of the greatest strengths of Texas Rice is its simplicity. Everything comes together in one pan, which means fewer dishes to wash and less time in the kitchen—an ideal setup for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a parent juggling family dinner or a beginner home cook, this dish is incredibly forgiving and versatile. No complicated techniques are required, and even substitutions can be made without sacrificing the overall flavor.

Another major perk? It’s a budget-friendly meal. The main components—ground beef, rice, canned tomatoes, and basic spices—are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up without an extra trip to the store. Plus, the recipe stretches well, so you can serve a full family or enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s economical, practical, and loaded with flavor.

A Nutrient-Rich, Filling Meal

Beyond being tasty and affordable, Texas Rice is a surprisingly balanced meal. It contains protein from the ground beef, complex carbs from the rice, and vitamins from the bell pepper, tomatoes, and onions. When topped with fresh herbs like parsley, it adds an antioxidant-rich layer to the dish. You can also make it healthier by using lean ground beef or ground turkey and brown rice for added fiber.

For those trying to reduce sodium or control calories, you can easily adjust the ingredients by choosing low-sodium broth or tomato sauce, reducing the cheese, or adding extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach. It’s a dish that adapts to your needs while keeping its satisfying core.

Customizable for Any Taste

Texas Rice is one of those rare recipes that is both consistent and customizable. You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking by adding jalapeños or hot sauce for heat or mellowing it out with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese. Love Tex-Mex flavors? Toss in some black beans or corn. Want a little more indulgence? Add a cheese topping and bake it briefly to make a Texan rice casserole.

The flexibility also makes it great for picky eaters. Kids might prefer it a little milder, while adults may want to layer on extra chili powder or top it with fresh cilantro. It’s this adaptability that makes Texas Rice a staple in so many homes.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

In addition to its flavor and ease, Texas Rice is an ideal meal prep option. You can make a large batch and portion it into containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop with just a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Freezing is also an option. Simply let it cool completely, pack it in airtight containers, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly. The consistency holds up well, and the flavors often become even richer the next day.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While Texas Rice is delicious on its own, you can serve it with simple sides to round out the meal. A crisp green salad or sautéed vegetables offer freshness that complements the richness of the dish. It also goes well with cornbread, warm tortillas, or even roasted sweet potatoes for added sweetness.

Want to dress it up for guests? Serve Texas Rice in a bowl with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, and a sprinkling of green onions. You can even add a fried egg on top for a Texan-style brunch twist. Its hearty texture makes it perfect for any occasion—family dinners, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Texas Rice

One common mistake is not letting the rice simmer long enough or lifting the lid too soon during cooking. Patience is key—let the rice absorb all the liquid for the best texture. Another pitfall is overcooking the vegetables until they become mushy. Sautéing them just until tender-crisp ensures a nice contrast to the soft rice and beef.

Seasoning also matters. Taste the mixture before adding the rice, and adjust the spices as needed. Some canned broths or tomato sauces are saltier than others, so you may want to reduce added salt. Conversely, if your broth is low-sodium, a pinch more seasoning might be necessary.

Tips to Elevate Your Texas Rice

To bring more depth to the dish, consider browning the ground beef thoroughly to enhance its flavor before adding other ingredients. You can also toast the rice for 1–2 minutes before simmering, which gives it a nutty edge and improves texture.

Using fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead of regular ones can add a smoky undertone. A splash of lime juice at the end adds brightness, cutting through the richness. You can also sprinkle in some sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamy finish or stir in a spoonful of salsa for extra zest.

Similar Recipes You Might Love

If you enjoy Texas Rice, you might also like:

• Spanish Rice with Chicken

• Cajun Dirty Rice

• Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet

• Cheesy Taco Rice Casserole

• Beef Enchilada Rice Bake

• Sausage and Peppers Rice Bowl

• Chili Rice Skillet

• Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers

• Taco-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

• One-Pot Enchilada Pasta

All these dishes share the same hearty, bold flavor profiles and are ideal for quick, nourishing meals.

Ingredient Spotlight: Cumin and Smoked Paprika

Cumin is a cornerstone of Tex-Mex flavor, offering a warm, earthy taste that deepens savory dishes. It pairs beautifully with beef and adds dimension to the tomato-based sauce in Texas Rice. Smoked paprika, on the other hand, contributes a subtle smokiness and mild heat, helping round out the spice profile without overpowering the dish. Together, they form the backbone of the flavor in this classic recipe.

Conclusion

Texas Rice is the kind of meal that makes you feel at home with every bite. It’s simple, hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, meal prepping for the week, or craving something comforting on a cold night, this dish delivers. With roots in both Southern and Tex-Mex cooking, it offers the best of both worlds in one easy skillet. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a repeat recipe in your kitchen.