October 21, 2023
Review RecipeHomemade Spanish Rice Recipe
This hearty, simple, Spanish rice is a flavorful side dish loaded with authentic flavor that is perfect to serve with any meal.
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This recipe for Spanish rice is made by cooking rice with veggies and seasonings to create a flavorful dish. The toasted rice and veggies take no time at all and combine to make an easy side dish that you will return to again and again.
Ingredients for Homemade Spanish Rice
If you’re looking for a savory side dish packed with flavor, Spanish rice is a must-try. This delicious dish offers a subtle blend of spices and herbs that give it its signature taste and aroma.
With a slightly nutty and tomatoey flavor, it pairs perfectly with meats, vegetables, and other entrees. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, Spanish rice is a tasty and versatile dish that is sure to leave your taste buds wanting more.
You’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1½ cups of long-grain white rice
- ½ cup of finely chopped onion
- 1 bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons of minced garlic
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, not drained
- 1 (8-ounce) can of tomato sauce
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
Substitutions and Additions for this Recipe for Spanish Rice
MEAT: We love to add meat to this easy Mexican rice recipe and make it a main dish. You can add your favorite meat; just be sure to cook it first. Try adding a pound of ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken, chicken breasts, shrimp, or bacon and stir it into the rice once it’s finished cooking.
BEANS: Spanish rice and beans are a classic combination. Try adding a can of black beans to this easy recipe (add it before you simmer the rice) for some added flavor, texture, and nutrients.
CORN: Adding corn to this recipe is another popular option that gives this recipe a delicious southwestern flair.
VEGETARIAN: Make this flavorful Spanish rice a vegetarian dish by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth.
RICE: White rice, brown rice, long-grain rice, or jasmine rice are all great options in this recipe.
How to Make Spanish Rice
Follow our easy instructions below to make this flavorful, savory Spanish rice side dish.
What is the difference between Spanish rice and Mexican rice?
The names Spanish rice and Mexican rice seem to be interchangeable. They both describe a red rice dish that’s made by toasting rice and adding vegetables. Our recipe is called Spanish rice, but it’s essentially the same as Mexican rice.
STEP ONE: In a large skillet that has a lid, melt butter with the olive oil. Add the uncooked rice, onion, and bell pepper and cook over medium to medium-high heat until the rice is golden brown and the vegetables are tender. Stir frequently. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
PRO TIP:
Keep a close eye on the rice and stir it frequently as you don’t want the rice to burn in the pan.
STEP TWO: Add the garlic, stir, and cook for about 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, and cumin. Stir well.
STEP THREE: Bring to a boil and then cover. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
STEP FOUR: Let the rice sit covered for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Fluff rice and serve.
PRO TIP:
You can also make this recipe in the slow cooker. Cook the rice and vegetables, following the above instructions. Instead of simmering the rice in the skillet for 20 minutes, transfer it to your slow cooker. Cook, covered, on high for 2½ to 3 hours, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff and serve.
What is Spanish Rice Served With?
While I love serving this easy Spanish rice with enchiladas, taquitos, or simple grilled chicken, this recipe goes with plenty of main dishes (Mexican or not) and adds a flavorful touch to your dinner table.
Taco Tuesday would be a great opportunity to add this dish alongside your favorite taco recipe.
Along with this homemade Spanish rice, our dirty rice and fried rice recipes also make a great side dish, too!
MORE SPANISH DISH RECIPES
How to Store this Spanish Rice Recipe
This tasty side dish keeps well in both the fridge and the freezer. Here’s how to store it properly.
IN THE FRIDGE: Store leftover rice in an airtight container for up to four days.
IN THE FREEZER: Leftover Spanish rice is simple to freeze. Let the rice cool completely, and then pack it in airtight freezer bags or Tupperware containers. When you’re ready to reheat it, add a couple of tablespoons of water and microwave the rice for about 5 minutes.
Spanish rice is a perfect side dish for any Mexican meal: it’s delicious, easy to make with simple ingredients all in one pot, and quick to simmer as you cook your main dish.
Homemade Spanish Rice FAQs
What is the difference between chicken broth and chicken stock, and can I use either in this recipe?
Chicken stock is more concentrated and flavorful than chicken broth. Stock is made using bones and meat, and aromatics (such as vegetables and herbs) to create a rich and flavorful cooking liquid. Broth is typically a lighter cooking liquid that only uses the meat and not as many vegetables and herbs to flavor it. Whichever you use, make sure to use the low or no-salt-added kind.
Which rice is best for Spanish rice?
We recommend using long-grain white rice to make Spanish rice, but any type of rice that you have on hand will be delicious in this recipe. The cooking times may vary, so make sure to keep an eye depending on the rice you use.
Can I make this rice in the slow cooker?
This delicious side dish can be made in a slow cooker. Cook the rice and vegetables, following the above instructions. Instead of simmering the rice in the skillet for 20 minutes, transfer it to your slow cooker. Cook, covered, on high for 2½-3 hours, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff and serve.
How much rice per person?
A typical serving size for rice is between ½ cup and 1 cup per person.
Can Spanish rice be made with brown rice?
You can use brown rice rather than white rice to make this Spanish rice recipe. Depending on the rice, you may need to adjust your cook times slightly.
Can you use salsa instead of tomato sauce?
If you would like to substitute tomato sauce with salsa in this recipe, you certainly can, and it will add an even more delicious texture to your dish.
How do you make Spanish rice not mushy?
Browning your rice in a frying pan before simmering it in the added liquids will help to keep it from becoming mushy.
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More From Spaceships and Laser Beams
Best Spanish Rice Recipe
This hearty, simple, Spanish rice is a flavorful side dish loaded with authentic flavor that is perfect to serve with any meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 8
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 14.5 ounces fire-roasted diced tomatoes, not drained
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions
- In a large pan that has a lid or skillet that has a lid, melt the butter with the olive oil.
- Add the rice, onion and bell pepper and cook over medium to medium-high heat until the rice is golden brown and vegetables are tender. Stir frequently. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add the garlic and stir. Cook for about 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika and cumin. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil and then cover. Reduce the heat to a simmer and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Let the rice sit covered for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
- Fluff the rice before serving.
Video
Notes
- The names Spanish rice and Mexican rice seem to be interchangeable. They both describe a red rice dish that’s made by toasting rice and adding vegetables. Our recipe is called Spanish rice, but it’s essentially the same as Mexican rice.
- Keep a close eye on the rice and stir it frequently as you don’t want the rice to burn in the pan.
- You can also make this recipe in the slow cooker. Cook the rice and vegetables, following the above instructions. Instead of simmering the rice in the skillet for 20 minutes, transfer it to your slow cooker. Cook, covered, on high for 2½ to 3 hours, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff and serve.
Nutrition
Calories: 212kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 11mg | Sodium: 778mg | Potassium: 236mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 712IU | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 41mg | Iron: 1mg
Have You Tried This Recipe?Follow me on Pinterest @spaceshipslb
Comments
Layne Kangas says
We LOVE Spanish rice – I make it often to go with any of our Mexican favorites… taco Tuesday, here we come!!!!
barbara says
The only Spanish Rice I will ever make. Better than restaurants. I substitute green chili enchilada sauce for the tomato sauce and that is my little touch but SO good!
Melissa says
Absolutely delicious. I ended up reducing the butter by one tablespoon and increased the olive oil by one tablespoon. It was a huge with the whole family! Thank you!
Layne Kangas says
Yay! So glad you enjoyed it! 🙂
Pat says
The nutritional information can’t be correct. It should be for a serving?
Layne Kangas says
Whoops, it wasn’t correct, thanks for catching that! I just updated so it’s accurate now. Enjoy 🙂
Dara says
I only had a 14 oz can of tomato sauce so I probably used more like 10oz instead of the prescribed 8. I also added a 4 oz can of green chilis and only 1/2 the amount of cumin (personal preference). It was OUTSTANDING. THANK YOU!!
Jess says
This is such a great recipe! I’ve made it a few times and it’s easy and delish! Thank you!
Sue says
This was the best recipe for Spanish rice! I used Rotel tomatoes. So good.
Sandi says
Can I make this a day ahead?
Layne Kangas says
Yes, enjoy!
Anna says
Excellent recipe. The family just loved it. This elevated my rice dish. And will be a great addition to any meal esp our Fiesta Friday’s!! 😀 Thank you!!
Melissa says
This is a great Mexican rice recipe! Loved it! I only used to use Rice A Roni Spanish rice. 🙄😁 this is wayyyy better!! I used smoked paprika and didn’t have onions. But, next time I’ll put onions and corn 🌽 in it— yummy; it’ll be EVEN BETTER!!
Janice says
Can I use brown rice?
Layne Kangas says
Yes, enjoy! 🙂
Ladonna says
So good!
Roger A Wilson says
Absolutely Amazing!!!
Dana says
I don’t use all the oils but this is just a wonderful base recipe to start with. Hubby loves it every time.
Cherie says
Does jasmine rice work for this recipe?
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Cherie – that should work fine!
DeeDee says
This recipe was so easy & good – I had leftover taco meat that I added & it was delicious.
Linda says
I just made this rice and it is so good. I had my daughter take a taste and she said that’s the best Spanish rice she ever tasted.
C. N. says
I love it. Quick and easy.
I changed out the fire roasted diced tomatoes with salsa. Also I had condensed tomato soup instead of tomato sauce.
That’s what I had on hand and it turned out great. I only omitted the salt due to the substituted items having salt.
Katie Burrow says
Delicious!!
We had extra red enchilada sauce and substituted the tomato sauce with enchilada sauce. 😋
Mary Ann says
This was really easy to make and had good flavor. I added additional veggies and some leftover steak and chicken and made it a great meal and lunch leftovers.
Sarah says
Very good!
Cporter says
This recipe is EXCELLENT!!! Will definitely use again!
I like the fact that it is NOT complicated! It taste authentic Mexican!
Brenda says
I like my Spanish rice very spicy
Audra Jones says
Will definitely try this!
Donna Kmelius says
I’ve never made spanish rice, but am excited to try it. I think I would add corn for an extra pop.
Myris says
I’ve made this before and added diced red peppers to the rice.
Nadine says
I love to use all the different colors in my rice. Variety is the spice of life !!!!
Laura Nott says
Delicious!…there is much yiu can do with this recipe inc adding corn, beans and or choice of lean meats. Red capsicums kiss the Spanish flavors through out..you can make items spicey too. A great all rounder here packed with flavour and nutrients
Kathleen myers says
I love adding corn to my Spanish rice. My kids would eat it as a full meal but I serve it with enchiladas mostly.
Rhonda says
I have never made Spanish rice before. My friend tells me is it super easy.
Lisa A Stebbins says
Delicious I even added some hamburger to it. Will now become my go-to recipe! Thank you
Arlene Cross says
I love this Spanish rice recipe, and often serve it as a side dish when I serve tacos or faijitas. I add kidney beans to my rice, with finely cut chicken.
Lisa Work says
Sounds delicious!
My mom always made her recipe with ground beef and so the tradition continues! 😋
Angela says
My boyfriend could eat rice every night! he loves spanish rice and DOES put it in his tacos. I’ve never seen this before, and eat mine on the side. Can’t wait to spring this recipe on him, yum!
Phyllis says
Yes I put ground beef and jam. Peppers in my Spanish rice and retried black beans on the side
Phyllis says
Yes I put ground beef and jal. Peppers in my Spanish rice and retried black beans on the side
Rhonda Phillips says
This dish was fun to make and pairs well goes almost any main. For an added color flair, I used all colors of peppers (green , red & yellow) and had black beans on the side.
Tina says
I like using red, orange, yellow and green peppers to my Spanish Rice.
BARB says
My produce crisper was bare so I added half a jar of good quality salsa instead. Works excellent and taste great.
Dee says
I add corn to my Spanish Rice.
Brittany Rausch says
This was just what I was looking for to pair with enchiladas this week! So over the bag rice that is dry and blah.
Kelly Abrams says
We love adding some spice/ heat to our Spanish rice. Even my boys (ages 9 and 10) love spicy foods!
Linda McFarland says
I actually love Spanish rice and the only way I can really enjoy it, it has to be very spicy. If you haven’t try it,then you must try it at least once.
Cindy says
Looks delicious!! I’ve never added corn to Spanish rice, but will try it. Sweet and spicy!!
Melakee Nicholson says
This looks so straightforward and delicious! I have always wanted an easy recipe for this kind of rice!
Melakee Nicholson says
Love corn in my Spanish rice, this is my first attempt at it!
Karen says
I would add ground beef to make it a complete meal!
Ann DeMell says
I love a Spanish rice with just about anything! I do like to add beans for a bit of added protein.
Shari says
I love Spanish rise with many things. I especially like that I can make it either mild or, my favorite, spicy.
Mary says
I like to add red and yellow peppers to Spanish rice.
Linda Paul says
I have never made Spanish rice from scratch. This recipe looks delicious! Wish I could print it.
Heather Kassin says
I have been searching for a great receipe to use as a side dish for taco night.
I am definitely going to try this one but will leave out the bell pepper, not a fan!
Margaret rose dixon says
I love Spanish rice. It is delicious with a pepper of course easy to make thank you
Fred Dunstall says
Awesome authentic Mexican flavor. My new go to rice dish.
Debby says
I like to eat Spanish rice with the enchiladas. I am going to learn how to make Spanish rice using your recipe because I found a bug in the box of El Paso Spanish rice.
Sharon M. says
Yes, I do like to add browned hamburg and corn to my Spanish rice to make it a complete one-dish meal. It’s even better the second day after flavors have really blended!
Dr. William Connelly says
I like it spicy!
Julie says
Loving this recipe!!! I’d use both red and yellow peppers as this easy to follow recipe inspires me but I’m not that creative. In my case my husband can’t eat rice (he chokes) so I will try it with orzo pasta.
Kelly Kardos says
We love Spanish rice with enchiladas. The fire roasted tomatoes gives it a tiny kick. I like to use smoked paprika and tri colored peppers.
Susan Gottesman says
I do not add corn to my Spanish tice!
Connie Duffner says
I used to love it a little spicey but as I have gotten older I can’t eat it that way. I love to serve it when making taco salad
Wendy Rowland says
This is a family favorite especially when corn and hamburger are added! It is a delicious meal that only needs a side of lettuce salad to finish up!! Love it!
Linda O'Brien says
Instead of just adding corn or meat, I add both. I like using red peppers and adding a little heat. It’s a meal not just a side with the meat and corn added. Think I’ll make this tonight for dinner.
Barbara Hargrove says
I have never added corn to my Spanish rice.
Mary says
Will definitely try. Looks delicious.
Tamica says
I’ve never made Spanish rice from scratch but this recipe looks delicious and easy
Laura Lawler says
Use green peppers for a little colour. And jalapenos.
Kathy Pierce says
I will try this recipe, I use ground beef or turkey and either a green pepper, red or yellow, whichever I have available. I also use white rice.
Joan Pierce says
I add meat and use green peppers if I want an easy one dish meal for the family on a busy night. East to reheat the left overs, if there are any leftovers. I also use it as a side with other entrees like burgers, tacos, etc.
Peggy says
I add red, yellow and green peppers to my Spanish Rice
Glenda says
Love getting your recipes everyday in my email. I have tried many of them and they always turn out delicious and become a family favorite. The instructions are easy to follow and make preparation a snap.
Deena Burns says
This looks amazing. My daughter in law makes this. I’ve never tried, but I will now. Thank you.
Jessi says
I like mine a little on the spicier side but not hot.
Trudy Ratter says
I add a red pepper but tone down the spices.
I sometimes eat it as one meal
Charlotte says
I love Spanish rice. My go to pepper is a red one.. I often add black beans. It is family approved.
Peggy Jay says
I love Spanish rice. Eat it as a side and also on tacos!
Tina Harvey says
I use hamburger in my Spanish rice. Thats what my hubby likes too.
Diane Harrison says
I love to add ground beef to my Spanish Rice for an all around meal!
Dee says
I add half lb. Cooked brown
Beef…your recipes are delicious and easy to prepare.
Mary T Morris says
I have always added ground beef to my Spanish rice. I used to like it spicy, but now that I’m retired, my tastes have changed.
Carole Wahler says
I use Basmati Rice when making Spanish rice. Can’t wait to try your recipe – looks and sounds wonderful!
Brenda Cooper says
A good recipe easy to follow and very flavorful. I use beef broth instead of chicken.
Ronda says
I love to use all bell peppers colours , leeks , and saffron and just little heat.
Laura Yarzebinski says
I’d leave out the chili powder and paprika. Other than that it sounds good.
Edie says
My Mother used to love Spanish Rice and made it using corn as well as any colored sweet peppers that we may of had on hand. I will try this recipe as I don’t think that she ever wrote hers down. Thank you for sharing.
madeleinemulanix says
Corn does not belong in spanish rice
Christine says
I’ve made Spanish rice many times. Love to add peppers for color and enjoy anything spicy. I eat it plan it on tacos.
JoDee L Pierson says
I like to mix in my homemade cabbage salsa, it adds crunch while the rest of the fresh salsa veggies make for a great taste
Leigh says
I add meat and cheese to my Spanish rice, for a meal.
Sandee says
I usually add bacon to my Spanish rice. I like to make it when my husband make barbecue spare ribs. I also some of the barbecue sauce to the rice.
Dolores says
Love all your recipes❣️I have made also ; many times the Spanish rice in many various ways. I like to add sometimes red kidney beans and a bit of dried oregano to it. This recipe is so easy and delicious always. Great for a colourful side dish with your Easter turkey and all the fixings. Happy Easter 🐣
Mike Optie says
I add Roasted Corn to my Spanish Rice…..DELICIOUS!
Roberta Ham says
I like to add a small amount of corn, English peas & carrots to my Spanish Rice.
I serve it with Tacos or Enchiladas.
Lynette Dyas says
I have made spanish rice before and like to serve it when I make enchiladas.
Lynette Dyas says
I like to serve it when I make enchiladas.
Tim Zahra says
I like to use a combination of ground beef and garlic sausage. My Mom made it like this when I was just a kid and I remember really enjoying it as I do to this day. Thank you for tonight’s dinner idea 😊
Beckie Ziemer says
What a great Recipe!! I also love to add a bit of corn and chopped sweet red pepper to my Spanish Rice. Gives another layer of flavor……
Don Bowles says
I love Spanish Rice, this is a wonderful recipe. Thank you for sharing. I forwarded this to my, sister. Have a great Easter
Dot says
This Spanish Rice recipe looks awesome! And no, I do not like to add corn to my dish! I do love red bell peppers and spices! I am anxious to try this!
Sharon Mousseau says
I added corn and chicken – delicious!
Bill says
We like corn and beans in our Spanish rice. I like the comment about adding shrimp. Going to try that
K Austin says
I love to make this rice with boneless chicken breast, red peppers and seasonings. Also I often add this rice to tacos. It’s so, so yummy!
Christy says
This Spanish Rice looks amazing! I like to serve it on the side of tacos, but it is so good that I end up adding it in when we have build your own taco nights.
Lilia says
My family loves this rice. I love corn in mine, but not all of my kids enjoy it. My solution is serve corn on the side with this dish for those who want it, then I just mix it into mine on my plate just before eating 😉 Yum!
Jackie says
Thank you for posting. I put my own spin on it. Instead of tomato paste, I put 1 cup of hot salsa. I sautéed garlic, onion & peppers then added the other ingredients and popped into the oven at 350 until rice was cooked. I tossed in precooked chicken.
WOW!
So versatile. My hubby put leftovers in tortilla to make a wrap. He loves this recipe.
Sandi Weedon says
This was a recipe i will use often.
We eat ALOT of Mexican food. Adding the rice is another means of flavoring our main dishes or simple a side dish making ir a must at our table!!
Darlene Kimberly says
I would use jasmine with red, yellow and green peppers, vidalia onions, hamburger and ground sausage meat, might use beans but no corn because husband would not eat it.
Ki says
My husband & kids have been raving about this rice for a week! Thanks!
Donna Woods says
This was scrumptious, much better than boxed. I also added black beans, corn and ground beef. Threw a little cheese and sour cream on top too.
Andrea says
Added ground turkey it was delicious! Kids love it too
J Kisabeth says
Love this recipe as a side dish when we have Mexican dinner night. It has a little kick to it but for me it’s just right for me.
Devon H says
Excellent!! Everyone raved about it.
You must try and see for yourself.
Diane says
Made it today just as shown. Came out great and will make it again.
Kelly Kardos says
Stephanie!!! Just finished making this for dinner with friends-Omg so good and so easy! It’s a keeper for us! Xo
Setti says
Do you rinse the starch off the rice before browning?
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Setti – no, we didn’t. Enjoy!
LJB says
Great recipe and easy to make, I love the tomato base to make it thick and tasty.
Michelle Pugh says
I love this rice dish. It’s worth the extra effort. You can do the easy 10 minute recipes, but they taste half as good. Eat it as a side, throw it in a burrito. The only thing I add is a can of green chilis. I am at high altitude, so it takes about 35 minutes of simmer time, but it’s worth the wait.
Carol Wolf says
Sounds delicious 😋
I’ll have to try it soon!
Smiley face says
Hi thanks for sharing this was very
Easy to make just made this today
A little spicy but I wouldn’t have it
Any other way I will be making this
Again job well done tastes great
Lara Hackney says
Great recipe and exactly what I hoped the outcome would be.
JODI FLAKE says
What if you can’t get fireroasted tomatoes? Will normal diced tomatoes work? I’m overseas and rarely can get them.
Layne Kangas says
Hi, Jodi – regular tomatoes would be ok then, enjoy!
Amber says
This has become a family favourite. I make this at least once a month although I often add ground meat to it – my toddler doesn’t love meat, so hiding ground meat in something this flavourful is a win!
Yvonne says
This recipe is so delicious. I used a jalapeño instead of a green pepper.
Jennifer Schneider says
This was soooo yummy. My adult kids wanted mexican fare for the Christmas Eve meal. I found this recipe and it was so perfect. It came out exceptional, full of flavor and made me really feel chef-like LOL. I definitely see the difference in mexican vs Spanish rice and I really love the flavor and texture of this Spanish rice. I literally can’t say enough good things about it and I never leave comments haha. I made a double batch and the family loved it. It will definitely be on my taco night rotation.
LuLu says
Definitely one of our favorite meals!!!! I make it at least once every couple of weeks! It’s perfect every time! So flavorful! You won’t be disappointed!
Marsha J Anderson says
Easy and delicious
Ed says
I used basmati rice and instead of tomato sauce I used enchilada sauce. I also added chopped chipotle peppers from can. Incredible. Thanks