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Easy • Vegetarian

One-Pot Southwestern Rice and Beans

A flavorful and filling vegetarian meal, this one-pot dish combines rice, black beans, corn, and vibrant Southwestern spices.

Prep
10 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
One-Pot Southwestern Rice and Beans

Looking for a comforting and hearty meal that's packed with flavor and requires minimal cleanup? This One-Pot Southwestern Rice and Beans is your answer! It's a vibrant, satisfying vegetarian dish that comes together effortlessly, perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving (Optional)

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Avocado, diced
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Lime wedges

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Step 3

    Add diced tomatoes (undrained), rinsed black beans, frozen corn, rinsed rice, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. Step 4

    Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often.

  5. Step 5

    Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.

  6. Step 6

    Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Tips

  • Rinsing the rice helps remove excess starch, preventing it from becoming too sticky.
  • For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño with the bell pepper.
  • This dish also makes great burrito bowls with some added salsa and cheese.

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