There’s something deeply comforting about a one-pan meal that brings together rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and the convenience of easy cleanup. This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, offering a delicious, satisfying dinner in under an hour.

Growing up, meals like this were a staple in my family. My mom always had a way of turning simple pantry ingredients into something warm and filling, and this dish was one of her favorites. The combination of ground beef, perfectly seasoned rice, and a medley of vegetables simmering together on the stovetop always made the kitchen smell incredible. It was the kind of meal that brought everyone to the table, no matter how busy the day had been.

This recipe is a wonderful balance of protein, carbs, and veggies, making it a complete meal in one skillet. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution, a comforting family meal, or a budget-friendly dish, this ground beef and rice skillet checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor! Everything cooks in one skillet, making it a breeze to prepare and clean up afterward.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of savory beef, tender rice, and flavorful seasonings is a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find and stretch to feed a family.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add extra veggies to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Make Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until the garlic becomes aromatic.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef to the center. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Stir everything together and season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili powder. Let the beef cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquid

Stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices), giving everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in the frozen peas and let them warm through for about 2 minutes. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese is melted and everything is heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Give it a final stir, and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Helpful Tips

• Use the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this dish, as it absorbs the broth without becoming mushy. If using brown rice, increase the broth and cooking time.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a little heat.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.
• More Veggies? Feel free to toss in diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Let It Rest: Once cooked, let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• You can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it for a quick lunch or dinner.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If freezing, allow the dish to cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes! Brown rice or jasmine rice can be used, but cooking times may vary. Brown rice will require additional liquid and about 10-15 more minutes of simmering.

Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works just as well, though the flavor may be milder. You may want to add an extra dash of seasoning to boost the taste.

What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet meal is filling on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or a warm slice of garlic bread.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering and use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet. If the liquid absorbs too quickly, add a little more broth.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.

Related Recipes

If you liked this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, you’ll definitely enjoy these other comforting meals:

• Sizzling Skillet Steak Fajitas (Low Carb & Keto-Friendly)
• Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
• Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
• Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Comforting Classic for Any Night of the Week

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the kind of meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavor—perfect for those nights when you need something easy but delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this dish has you covered.

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