Spanish Rice Recipe | Classic Spanish Rice

PUBLISHED August 29, 2025· MODIFIED August 29, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1472 words. · About 8 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for a flavorful, versatile side dish that will take your meal to the next level, look no further than this Spanish Rice! This recipe blends aromatic spices, tomatoes, and fluffy rice for a deliciously savory addition to any dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a family meal, Taco Tuesday, or pairing with your favorite Mexican dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Spectacular Side Dish

Quick and Easy. Ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Fluffy and Flavorful. The rice cooks up tender with a delicious depth of flavor from the seasoning and tomatoes.
Versatile. Serve it as a side dish, or use it as a base for burrito bowls, fajitas, or stuffed peppers.
Customizable. Adjust the spice level or add extras like corn or peas for more variety.

With just a few pantry staples, this Spanish Rice recipe transforms plain rice into a rich, vibrant dish that everyone will love.

What Does It Taste Like?

Spanish rice has a deliciously savory and slightly tangy flavor, thanks to its base of tomatoes and seasonings.

The rice itself is tender and fluffy, absorbing the rich flavors of the broth, cumin, paprika, and garlic. The tomato sauce adds a subtle sweetness and tang, while the cumin and paprika give the dish a warm, earthy, and mildly smoky taste. It’s seasoned with a hint of chili powder for an extra layer of depth, making it flavorful without being overly spicy.

The overall taste is comforting, hearty, and perfect as a side dish for any Mexican-inspired meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Long Grain White Rice– The base of the dish. Long grain rice cooks up fluffy and separate, perfect for this recipe.
Olive Oil– Used to sauté the rice and seasonings, bringing out their flavors.
Onion– Adds aromatic sweetness and a savory flavor to the rice.
Garlic– For that fragrant, rich, savory note that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Ground Cumin– Adds earthy warmth, which is essential for a well-seasoned Spanish rice.
Paprika– For a slightly smoky flavor that enhances the depth of the rice.
Chili Powder– Adds a mild kick without overpowering the dish.
Tomato Sauce– Provides that tangy, rich base flavor that makes this rice so vibrant.
Diced Tomatoes– Add texture and even more tomato flavor.
Chicken Broth– Adds depth and richness to the rice, making it fluffy and flavorful.
Salt– To season the rice and balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Black Pepper– For a little warmth and depth of flavor.

How To Make Spanish Rice

Rinse and Toast the Rice. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffy rice. In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it in the oil for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to turn golden.
Sauté the Aromatics. Add the chopped onion to the pot with the rice. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add the Seasonings. Stir in the cumin, paprika, and chili powder. Let the spices cook with the rice and onions for 1-2 minutes to release their oils and enhance their flavors.
Add the Tomato Sauce, Diced Tomatoes, and Broth. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes. The rice will absorb the liquids and become tender.
Fluff the Rice. Once the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes to finish cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
Serve and Enjoy. Serve the Spanish rice hot as a side dish, topped with fresh cilantro or lime wedges, or use it as a base for your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos or burritos.

Tips And Tricks

Making the perfect Spanish rice can be a simple task with a few helpful tips and tricks to ensure it turns out fluffy, flavorful, and delicious every time. Here are some tips to elevate it:

Don’t Overcrowd the Rice. When you sauté the rice, don’t overcrowd the pot. Let it toast in an even layer for the best texture.
Adjust the Spice. If you prefer a spicier rice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to amp up the heat.
Add Extra Veggies. Mix in some peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Use Fresh Tomato. For a fresher taste, substitute 1 1/2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes for the tomato sauce.
Low and Slow. Be patient with the simmering process. Don’t rush it! Letting the rice simmer on low heat allows it to absorb all the flavors and cook perfectly.

Variations

Spanish rice is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

Vegetarian- Skip the chicken broth and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Cheesy- Stir in some shredded cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy, cheesy twist.
With Chorizo- Add some crumbled chorizo or sausage to the pot for a meaty version.
Spicy- For a heat-loving twist, add a diced jalapeño along with the onions for extra spice.

What To Eat With Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is the perfect side dish to complement a variety of meals. Here are a few ideas to pair it with:

Tacos– Serve alongside your favorite taco fillings for a complete meal.
Grilled Meats– Spanish rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
Burrito Bowls– Add Spanish rice as the base to your burrito bowl for extra flavor.
Salads– A simple green salad with a zesty dressing balances the richness of the rice.

How Long Does It Last?

Spanish rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore the texture.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze Spanish rice for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

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