This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Easy Spanish Rice (Flavorful, One-Pan Side Dish)
This easy Spanish rice is a simple, budget-friendly side dish packed with bold flavor from tomatoes, spices, and sautéed vegetables. It’s the perfect addition to tacos, burritos, or any Tex-Mex meal, and it comes together in just one pan.
Using cooked rice makes this recipe extra quick, while still delivering that classic savory, slightly smoky flavor you expect from traditional Spanish rice.
What Is Spanish Rice?
Spanish rice (often called Mexican rice or arroz rojo) is a flavorful rice dish made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, and spices. It’s commonly served as a side dish alongside tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can Mexican-style diced tomatoes
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp powdered beef bouillon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water, if needed
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5–10 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Add remaining ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), cooked rice, chili powder, beef bouillon, salt, and pepper. - Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it starts to dry out, add a splash of water as needed. - Serve warm
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.
Tips for the Best Spanish Rice
- Sautéing first builds flavor—this step creates the base of the dish and adds depth.
- Use long-grain rice for the best texture (it stays fluffy, not sticky).
- Don’t skip the tomatoes—they give Spanish rice its signature color and flavor.
- Adjust moisture as needed since you’re using pre-cooked rice
- Season at the end to avoid over-salting (bouillon adds salt)
Easy Variations
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce
- Chicken Spanish rice: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken
- Vegetarian: Swap beef bouillon for vegetable bouillon
- Extra flavor: Add cumin or paprika for a deeper, smoky taste
Serving Ideas
This Spanish rice pairs well with:
- Tacos, burritos, and enchiladas
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Beans or fajitas
- Stuffed bell peppers
- As a filling for burrito bowls
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- One-pan and easy cleanup
- Great for meal prep
- Family-friendly and budget-friendly
If you end up with any leftover Spanish rice, you can use it to make Rice and Bean Patties. Or mix the leftover rice with scrambled eggs and cheese to make a breakfast burrito or a breakfast bowl.
Spanish Rice
Servings: 6
Calories: 150kcal
Ingredients
- 2 Tbs butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any colors)
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 14.5 oz can Mexican-style diced tomatoes
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp powdered beef bouillon
- salt and pepper to taste
- water if needed
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a frying pan over medium heat, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until slightly tender, 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add tomatoes with juice, rice, chili powder, beef bouillon powder, salt, and pepper to the onion mixture. Simmer, stirring occasionally. If the mixture starts to look dry add a little water. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition
Serving: 1portion | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 49mg | Potassium: 121mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 338IU | Vitamin C: 21mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 0.4mg
To make with uncooked rice – Saute 1 ½ cups of uncooked rice with the vegetables in step 1. In step 2, add 2 cups of water, cover with a lid, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is tender.
New
Stainless Steel Wok Pan with Glass Lid, Nonstick Wok | Hybrid Stainless Steel Skillet for Home Cooking & Family Kitchens, Dishwasher & Oven Safe, Induction Compatible
- 1. Made of premium 410 stainless steel with reliable non-stick coating, lead and cadmium for daily cooking.
- 2. Designed with helical spiral base for better stability and uniform heat distribution. Clear glass lid lets you track cooking progress without lifting the cover.
- 3. Ergonomic lid handle offers a comfortable and secure hold. Works on all cooktops: induction, gas, electric, halogen, glass and ceramic stovetops.
- 4. Suitable for preparing family meals and dishes for small gatherings. It can go directly from stovetop to dining table for convenient serving.
- 5. Clean with warm water after use and dry thoroughly. Medium or low heat is recommended because stainless steel transfers heat rapidly. Slight color difference and 1-3cm measurement tolerance may occur.
New
Fumusae 6 Mini Cast Iron Skillet, 4" Small Frying Pans for Stove Oven Grill | Mini Cast Iron Skillet with Handle, with Double Drip-Spouts, Round Black Casserole Dish Cookware, Small Skillets for Frying
- This 6-pack combines a versatile small skillet and iron skillet set for single-serving cooking. Each 4-inch pan works as a mini frying pan for eggs, pancakes, or appetizers. The compact size heats quickly and saves space, while the pre-seasoned surface delivers natural nonstick performance. Ideal for stove, oven, grill, or campfire.
- Crafted from premium cast iron, every tiny cast iron skillet ensures even heat distribution and excellent heat retention. A small iron skillet is perfect for sauces or sides. These small cast iron skillets are pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, offering a cooking surface that releases trace iron into your food for added nutrition.
- Use this mini cast iron skillet on any cooktop: gas, electric, induction, halogen, or in the oven up. These small cast iron skillets are built to last a lifetime with proper care. As 4inch cast iron cookware, they resist rust when dried thoroughly after washing. Double drip-spouts simplify pouring excess oil or grease.
- Each 4 inch cast iron pan features a hanging hole for convenient storage. These small cast iron skillets are hand-polished for a smooth, easy-clean surface. The mini cast iron pan is oven safe and ideal for baking mini desserts, serving dips, or as a spoon rest. Wash with mild soap and dry immediately to maintain the seasoning.
- This set includes 6 pieces, making it perfect for family breakfasts, party appetizers, or individual portions. Each mini cast iron pan doubles as a serving dish or even a tiny baking dish. A thoughtful gift for home cooks and outdoor enthusiasts. Season a few times before first use for best nonstick results.
Bestseller No. 1
Nishiki Premium Rice, Medium Grain,15 Pound (Pack of 1)
- Store rice in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent moisture or pests
$25.98
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2
Amazon Grocery, Enriched White Long Grain Rice, 5 Lb
- One 5 pound bag of Enriched White Long Grain Rice
- Enriched with essential nutrients including iron, niacin, thiamin, and folic acid
- Ready in about 15 minutes using basic stovetop cooking method
- Amazon Grocery has all the favorites you love for less. You’ll find everything you need for great-tasting meals in one shopping trip
- Feed your every day with Amazon Grocery
$3.17
Buy on Amazon
Bestseller No. 2
ROTEL Original Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies, Perfect for Taco & Dip Recipes, 10 oz.
- 10 oz cans RO*TEL Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies
- Juicy, vine-ripened tomatoes blended with select green chilies and flavorful spices
- Add the bold zest of the Southwest to your favorite recipe
- Perfect in appetizers and dips or in your favorite Mexican and Southwestern foods
- Keto Friendly Snack – 4g net carbs (5g total carbs minus 1g dietary fiber), and 1g added sugar per serving
$1.53
Buy on Amazon
