Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Name: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting one-pan meal that combines ground beef, rice, and flavorful spices for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:06:37.119Z

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in one pan. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without all the fuss. The combination of savory ground beef and fluffy rice makes it a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy weeknights
Savory flavors that please the whole family
Versatile recipe - customize with your favorite veggies

      

The Perfect One-Pan Solution

Sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones. This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a perfect example of a one-pan dish that delivers both flavor and convenience. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that requires minimal cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe allows you to spend more time enjoying dinner with your family and less time in the kitchen.

One-pan meals have gained popularity for good reason. They not only save time during preparation but also allow the flavors to meld beautifully. In this dish, the savory taste of the ground beef combines with the spices and vegetables, creating a comforting meal that everyone at the table will love. Plus, with everything cooked in one skillet, you can easily monitor the progress and adjust seasonings as needed.

Endless Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is its versatility. This recipe serves as a fantastic base that you can modify according to your family’s preferences. Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Add your favorite vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you're looking for a lighter option.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different spices, such as chili powder or Italian seasoning, to give the dish your personal twist. With these options, you can enjoy a new version of this skillet meal every time you make it.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this delicious Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, the options are plentiful. A simple green salad or a side of steamed vegetables complements the dish nicely, adding freshness and color to your dinner plate. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread or a side of cornbread to soak up the flavorful juices.

For a complete meal, you can also top the skillet with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also add a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and rice. Whether it's a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain the excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have any leftovers, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet stores wonderfully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer the cooled dish to an airtight container and it will last for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze. Just warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to bring back moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can easily pull out a meal whenever you need a quick dinner solution. To freeze, make sure the skillet is completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to label your containers with the date for easy reference.

Nutritional Benefits

Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health. When paired with rice and vegetables, this meal offers a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. The inclusion of spices like paprika and cumin not only enhances the flavor but also provides various health benefits. These spices have antioxidant properties and can help boost your metabolism.

Moreover, by customizing the recipe with a variety of vegetables, you can increase the nutritional profile significantly. Adding bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes not only adds color but also important vitamins and minerals. This makes the Ground Beef and Rice Skillet not just a satisfying meal, but also a nourishing option for your family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure your rice is certified gluten-free.