Looking for a fast and flavorful dinner that the whole family will love? This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the ultimate one-pan meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Made with tender ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, and a rich, tomato-infused broth, this dish is packed with comforting flavors. It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.
The beauty of this skillet meal lies in its versatility. Whether you want to spice it up with some extra seasonings, add your favorite veggies, or top it with gooey melted cheese, the possibilities are endless. Plus, with minimal cleanup, this dish ensures you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes. Try this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet tonight and savor the simplicity of a home-cooked, heartwarming dinner!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper.
- Once the beef is browned, add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in paprika and oregano for added flavor.
- Add the rice, mixing it well with the beef and veggies.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice, taste for seasoning, and adjust if needed. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet: A One-Pan Meal for Busy Weeknights
If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and budget-friendly meal that requires minimal cleanup, then this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the perfect choice. It’s a one pan wonder that combines protein-packed ground beef, fluffy rice, and aromatic vegetables in a rich and savory broth. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal dish for busy families and home cooks who need a no-fuss dinner option.
This meal is not only delicious and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you want to add extra vegetables, experiment with different spices, or swap out the protein, this dish is easy to adapt while maintaining its signature comforting flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This skillet meal is more than just a quick dinner fix. Here are some reasons why this dish is a must-have in your meal rotation:
1. Quick and Easy
With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this dish comes together in half an hour. That means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
2. One-Pan Convenience
Nobody enjoys washing a sink full of dishes after a long day. Since everything cooks in a single skillet, cleanup is minimal, making this recipe a dream for busy home cooks.
3. Budget-Friendly Ingredients
Most of the ingredients used in this recipe are pantry staples ground beef, rice, broth, and vegetables. These affordable ingredients make it a great meal option for families on a budget.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
You can easily tweak this dish based on your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Want a little heat? Add some chili powder or hot sauce. Looking for a more nutritious option? Swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa and throw in extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
5. Hearty and Satisfying
This meal is packed with protein, healthy carbs, and vegetables, making it well-balanced and filling. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will leave everyone satisfied.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this skillet meal is how versatile it is. Here are some variations you can try to switch things up:
1. Swap the Protein
- Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option.
- Want to go meatless? Replace the beef with black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
2. Change the Rice
- Brown rice is a great option for added fiber and nutrients, but keep in mind it takes longer to cook.
- If you’re looking for a low-carb version, cauliflower rice is a great substitute. Just reduce the broth to prevent it from becoming too watery.
- Quinoa is another great alternative, offering a protein-packed twist to the classic recipe.
3. Add More Vegetables
While onions and bell peppers are the base veggies in this dish, feel free to toss in:
- Carrots for a hint of sweetness
- Mushrooms for an earthy flavor
- Zucchini for extra nutrition
- Corn or peas for a pop of color and sweetness
- Spinach or kale for added greens
4. Make It Spicy
If you love bold and spicy flavors, add some of these:
- Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a kick
- Chopped jalapeños for extra heat
- Sriracha or hot sauce for a spicy twist
5. Add a Creamy Touch
For a creamy and cheesy finish, stir in:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- A dollop of sour cream
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with delicious sides to round out the dish. Here are a few ideas:
1. Fresh Salad
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the skillet. A Caesar salad or a cucumber and tomato salad also make great options.
2. Bread or Tortillas
For extra comfort, serve this dish with:
- Warm tortillas for a Tex-Mex-inspired meal
- Crusty garlic bread to soak up the flavorful sauce
- Cornbread for a Southern twist
3. Side Vegetables
Balance the richness of this dish with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
4. Sauce and Toppings
- A drizzle of hot sauce, salsa, or sour cream enhances the flavors.
- Freshly chopped cilantro, parsley, or green onions add a pop of color and freshness.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This dish is excellent for meal prep, making it a great option for leftovers and make-ahead meals.
1. Storing Leftovers
- Let the dish cool completely before storing.
- Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers taste even better the next day!
2. Freezing Instructions
- This dish freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat.
3. Reheating
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent dryness.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is more than just a quick dinner option it’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you need something filling, flavorful, and easy to make. With simple pantry ingredients, a one pan cooking method, and endless customization options, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Whether you keep it classic or experiment with different flavors, one thing is certain: this meal is packed with comfort, convenience, and deliciousness. So grab your skillet, whip up this savory beef and rice dish, and enjoy a stress-free homemade dinner that the whole family will love!