Description
Looking for a quick dinner idea packed with flavor and comfort? This Rice and Beans recipe is the ultimate one-pan solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With tender rice, smoky ham, and creamy pinto beans, it delivers big on taste while using simple, affordable ingredients. It’s an easy recipe perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or anyone craving hearty food ideas without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re into breakfast ideas, quick lunch fixes, or just need a healthy snack later, this dish fits right in.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced ham
1 1/2 cups cooked pinto beans
3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
2. Add chopped onions and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add diced ham and sauté until it starts to brown and caramelize.
5. Stir in the pinto beans and cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing them to soak in flavor.
6. Add the rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine.
7. Let the rice fry for a couple of minutes undisturbed, then stir again to crisp it up.
8. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
9. Finish by tossing in chopped parsley and mix just before serving.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For best results, always use day-old rice to avoid mushiness.
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months for an easy future meal.
Adjust spice level by increasing or omitting red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: rice and beans, easy recipe, quick dinner, comfort food, one-pan meals