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Easy 15-Minute Cowboy Beef and Rice Skillet photo

15-Minute Cowboy Beef and Rice Skillet

This 15-Minute Cowboy Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and hearty meal your family will love!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or as desired
  • 1 large sweet Vidalia onion diced small
  • 1 pound ground beef (90% lean is recommended)
  • 1 large red bell pepper seeded and diced small
  • 3 to 4 cloves garlic finely minced or pressed
  • 2 cups cooked rice (use one 8.8-ounce packet of Uncle Ben's Ready Rice to save time)
  • 1 13-ounce jar cowboy caviar salsa or a corn and bean-based salsa
  • to taste salt and pepper optional
  • Fresh parsley optional for garnishing (cilantro or green onions may be substituted)

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Serving spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about a minute.
  2. Add the diced Vidalia onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, toss in the diced red bell pepper and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use your wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to cook evenly.
  4. Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the cooked rice and cowboy caviar salsa. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors, allowing it to heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired. Once fully heated, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions for an added touch of flavor and color.

Notes

  • For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
  • Using leftover rice or meal-prepped rice can save even more time.
  • Feel free to throw in some additional veggies like corn, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.