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 white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick and delicious one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:36:35.878Z

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and spices creates a meal that is sure to please the whole family.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy one-pan meal
Flavorful and satisfying
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

Perfect for Busy Nights

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook a nutritious meal can be challenging. This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet comes to the rescue as a quick and one-pan solution. With just one skillet to clean, you can spend more quality time with family or relax after a long day. It takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for those hectic weeknights when you need something delicious without the fuss.

This recipe is not just about speed; it delivers on flavor as well. The combination of ground beef, aromatic spices, and hearty rice creates a satisfying dish that will leave everyone at the table feeling full and happy. Plus, the vibrant colors from the diced tomatoes and fresh parsley make this dish visually appealing, making it an excellent option for serving guests or family.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the standout features of this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is its adaptability for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and portion out leftovers for lunches throughout the week. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, so you might find that the leftovers taste even better the next day. Store them in airtight containers, and you've got a ready-to-eat meal that saves you time and effort.

Moreover, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices based on what's in your pantry. Whether you add bell peppers, corn, or even some black beans, the base recipe remains the same while allowing you to tailor it to your family's tastes.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet quick and convenient, but it also packs a nutritional punch. Ground beef is a great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making it a smart choice for a balanced meal. Pairing it with rice provides a good source of carbohydrates, giving you the energy needed to power through your day.

Additionally, by using fresh ingredients like onions, garlic, and tomatoes, you're incorporating vitamins and minerals into your diet. This dish can be a wholesome option for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal without compromising on nutrition.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Add Rice and Broth

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

Simmer

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

Garnish and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet

To ensure your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider browning the beef properly. Make sure to break it into small pieces while cooking, allowing for even browning and flavor distribution. This step enhances the overall taste and texture of the dish.

Using high-quality beef broth will also elevate the flavor profile. Homemade broth is the best choice if you have the time, but store-bought options work well too. Just watch for added sodium, and adjust your salt accordingly to maintain a balanced taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish serves wonderfully on its own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A crunchy green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the skillet, adding freshness to your plate.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider topping your serving with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce. This can bring an exciting kick to the dish, catering to those who appreciate a little heat in their meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this skillet meal?

You can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth.