Simple Homemade Spanish Rice | Easy & Budget Friendly

Craving the ultimate comfort food but short on time? This Quick Homemade Spanish Rice is the perfect budget-friendly dinner for busy weeknights! By combining fresh sautéed onions, peppers, and garlic with a smart Prego sauce shortcut, you get that authentic, rich flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.In this video, I’ll show you how to transform simple pantry staples into a delicious, savory side dish or a standalone meal that the whole family will love. It’s every bit homemade, incredibly easy on the wallet, and packed with classic comfort food flavors. If you enjoyed this quick and easy dinner idea, make sure to like this video, leave a comment with your favorite rice hacks, and subscribe for more budget-friendly comfort food recipes! #SpanishRice #EasyDinner #Budgetdinners #comfortfood 🍅 SPANISH RICE A Delicious, Easy & Flavor-Packed Side Dish This Spanish rice is packed with flavor and made extra delicious with Prego Meat Sauce. It's hearty enough to serve as a meal and makes a wonderful side dish for tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or just about any Mexican-inspired dinner. INGREDIENTS 1 3/4 cups long-grain white rice 1 jar Prego Meat Sauce 2½ cups chicken broth 1 cup water ½ medium onion, finely diced ½ green bell pepper, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 small can tomato paste 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon chili powder ½ teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste ½ teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese ½ cup black beans, drained Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional) INSTRUCTIONS 1. Sauté the Vegetables Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until they begin to soften. 2. Add Garlic & Tomato Paste Add the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. 3. Toast the Rice Add the uncooked rice and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Toasting the rice helps give it a delicious restaurant-style flavor. 4. Add the Seasonings Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. 5. Add the Sauce & Liquid Pour in the Prego Meat Sauce, chicken broth, and water. Stir everything together well. 6. Simmer Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for approximately 18–20 minutes. Do not stir while it cooks. 7. Let the Rice Rest Turn off the heat and leave the skillet covered for 5 minutes. 8. Add the Black Beans Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Fold in the drained black beans. 9. Add the Cheese Sprinkle the shredded Mexican-blend cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let it sit for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. 10. Garnish & Serve Finish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Squeeze fresh lime over the rice just before serving. ⭐ SERVING TIP For an extra beautiful presentation, sprinkle a little more cheese, fresh cilantro, and a few pieces of corn over the top just before serving. Enjoy! ❤️ Happy Mail: Sweet Country Living In Michigan P.O. Box 63 Decatur, Michigan 49045