Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Name: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish that brings together ground beef, rice, and spices for a comforting meal that's ready in no time.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:06:48.761Z

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick and delicious option for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and flavor, it's a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Satisfying and filling meal in one dish
Customizable with your favorite vegetables
Quick preparation and cooking time

      

A One-Pan Wonder

The Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the epitome of convenience and comfort. This dish combines protein-packed ground beef with wholesome rice, creating a satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup. With everything cooked together in one pan, you can focus on enjoying your time with family or friends rather than spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet quick. It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to serve a delicious meal without sacrificing quality or flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize pantry staples, making it a go-to option for any cook.

Flavorful and Versatile

One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. Try incorporating diced carrots, peas, or corn for added nutrition and color. The flexibility of this recipe ensures that it can be adapted to suit any dietary preferences or seasonal produce.

In addition to being customizable, this dish also offers a robust flavor profile. The combination of paprika, garlic, and diced tomatoes creates a rich, savory base that elevates the ground beef and rice. Whether you enjoy a mild taste or prefer something with a kick, you can easily modify the seasonings to match your palate.

Nutritional Benefits

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet isn’t just delicious; it's also a well-rounded meal. Ground beef provides essential protein and iron, supporting muscle health and energy levels. Paired with rice, you get a good source of carbohydrates, which are vital for fueling your body throughout the day.

Adding vegetables to the mix enhances the nutritional value, introducing vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet. By incorporating a variety of colors and types of veggies, you can boost the fiber content, aiding digestion and promoting overall health. This dish is not only filling but also nourishes your body from the inside out.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

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

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve

Fluff with a fork and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!

This dish pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread.

Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet

To achieve the best results, make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly. This step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a nice texture. Don't rush this process; letting the beef caramelize will give your dish a deeper, richer taste.

When adding the rice, be sure to stir it well with the other ingredients before bringing everything to a boil. This ensures even cooking and prevents the rice from clumping together. Following this simple tip will lead to a fluffy, perfectly cooked rice that complements the beef beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply microwave portions or heat them on the stovetop until warmed through.

For longer storage, consider freezing the skillet once it's cooled completely. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop for best results, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and possibly the amount of broth.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.