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 long-grain rice; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Combining seasoned ground beef with fluffy rice and vegetables, it's a complete dinner that the whole family will love.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2025-12-24T19:33:40.227Z

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet brings together all the flavors of a comforting dinner in one simple dish. It's a family favorite that can be customized with your choice of vegetables and spices!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just one skillet
Flavorful combination of beef, rice, and spices
Perfect for meal prep or leftovers

      

A One-Pan Wonder

One of the standout features of the Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is its simplicity. Using just one pan, you can create a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. This is especially appealing for busy families or anyone looking to streamline their cooking process. The convenience of preparing everything in one skillet means you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your family's preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you want to add more vegetables like frozen peas or corn, or swap the ground beef for turkey or a meat substitute, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy this dish often without it feeling repetitive.

Nutritious and Balanced

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a well-rounded meal. The combination of protein from the ground beef, carbohydrates from the rice, and essential vitamins from the vegetables creates a balanced dish that can fuel your family’s day. With each bite, you’re not just filling up – you’re nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Additionally, the use of spices like paprika and cumin not only enhances flavor but also brings health benefits. Cumin is known for its digestive properties, while paprika adds antioxidants. This means you can enjoy a meal that is not only delicious but also supports your health goals.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to save time during the week, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is an excellent choice for meal prep. It keeps well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners. Preparing a larger batch means you can have nutritious meals ready to go, making it simpler to stick to healthy eating habits even on the busiest days.

To store leftovers, simply allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a convenient and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup beef broth
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Combine Ingredients

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

Simmer

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

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, choose high-quality ground beef. Look for lean options to reduce excess fat while still maintaining flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, you can opt for a higher fat content but be sure to drain any excess grease after browning the meat.

When cooking the rice, keep an eye on the liquid levels. If you find that the rice is absorbing too quickly, you can add a splash more broth or water to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn't dry out.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side salad or crusty bread. A fresh green salad with light vinaigrette complements the hearty flavors and adds a refreshing crunch.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your serving. This can give your dish an extra kick and make it even more enjoyable for spice lovers.

Storage and Reheating

When storing your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, ensure it is in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It can be stored in the refrigerator for three days or frozen for up to three months. Remember to label your containers with dates to keep track of their freshness.

For reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, add a splash of beef broth or water to help revive the dish’s moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through, and enjoy your quick and easy meal once again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative if you prefer a plant-based option.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet meal in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach for more nutrition and color.