Site icon Julia Pacheco

Spanish Rice with Pinto Beans

Jump to Recipe

Why Spanish Rice & Beans?

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. Did you know that when combined, rice and beans form a complete protein? This makes them a perfect vegetarian option that’s not only satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. Inspired by traditional Gallo Pinto, this Spanish Rice & Beans recipe infuses savory flavors with wholesome ingredients, all in one pan and ready in under 30 minutes.

Discover 12 of My Favorite Bean & Rice Recipes – Easy, Delicious, and Budget-Friendly!

Pro Tips for Perfect Spanish Rice & Beans:

Serving Suggestions:

This versatile dish works wonderfully as a hearty vegetarian meal or as a robust side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken, beef, or enjoy it with quesadillas or fajitas for a fulfilling meal. Add toppings like avocado slices, chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Storing for Later:

Spanish Rice with Pinto Beans Recipe

Serving: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

Cooking Instructions:

  1. To a large deep pan on the stove over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Let cook together, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the rice, seasonings, salsa, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, and pinto beans. Stir well to combine.
  3. Cover and let simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender. If the liquid line gets too low, add in 1/2 cup more broth or water as needed.
  4. Once the rice is tender, stir in the shredded cheese.
  5. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

I’m Julia Pacheco, a published cookbook author and food creator who’s passionate about delicious, budget-friendly meals that bring people together. From learning to cook with my mom to navigating life on WIC and food stamps, I know the value of making every meal count.

If you’re new or just discovering my page, let’s get to know each other! Learn more about my journey and love for cooking here: Julia Pacheco

Join the Conversation:

Tried this recipe? I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your photos! Tag your creations with @julia.pacheco.cooking on Instagram and share your tips and variations. Got questions or need suggestions? Drop a comment below!

Explore More:

Looking for more easy, nutritious meal ideas? Check out our favorite cheaper meal ideas or slow cooker recipes on my blog, and follow along on my YouTube channel for step-by-step cooking tutorials!

Print

Spanish Rice with Pinto Beans Recipe

Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Keyword beans, spanish rice
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 yellow onion diced
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 green or any color bell pepper diced
  • 2 cups uncooked white rice
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/2 cup salsa any brand
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 14 oz cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

  • To a large deep pan on the stove over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Let cook together, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the rice, seasonings, salsa, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, and pinto beans. Stir well to combine.
  • Cover and let simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender. If the liquid line gets too low, add in 1/2 cup more broth or water as needed.
  • Once the rice is tender, stir in the shredded cheese.
  • Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Exit mobile version