Delicious, Filling & Affordable – Perfect for Saving Money!
This one-pot meal is the ultimate budget-friendly recipe! Packed with protein-rich beans, hearty rice, and melted cheese, it’s an affordable, nutritious, and satisfying dish made with pantry staples. Easy, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep!
Best Budget-Friendly One-Pot Cheesy Rice & Beans
Description
This One-Pot Cheesy Rice & Beans is a quick, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for families, students, or anyone looking to save money without sacrificing flavor. Made with simple pantry staples like rice, beans, cheese, and spices, it’s a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s easy to make in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add diced onions and cook until softened (2–3 minutes).
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Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cook the Rice & Beans:
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Add rice, broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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Stir well and bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Add Cheese & Finish:
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Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
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Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve & Enjoy:
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Garnish with fresh cilantro (if using) and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 11g17%
- Saturated Fat 4.5g23%
- Cholesterol 18mg6%
- Sodium 680mg29%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 65g22%
- Dietary Fiber 9g36%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 18g36%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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