Name: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a weeknight hero—ready in just 30 minutes! As a home cook with years of experience in the kitchen, I can say this dish combines comfort and flavor in a one-pan meal that will have your family asking for seconds. It’s the perfect balance of hearty beef, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, delivering satisfaction in every bite.

Why Make This Recipe

Quick Cooking: You can have this delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein from the beef, fiber from the rice, and vitamins from the veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup for you—more time to relax after dinner!
Customizable Flavors: The spice blend can be adjusted to your liking, whether you prefer something mild or a bit spicier.
Family Favorite: I love this recipe because it’s a hit with my kids, who enjoy helping chop the vegetables. It’s a meal we all look forward to!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cooking Method: Skillet

In this recipe, we’ll sauté our ingredients and simmer the rice with flavorful broth, resulting in a delicious and cohesive dish.

My Experience Making This Recipe

When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised at how quickly it came together while still being flavorful. I encountered a bit of a challenge with rice not cooking as quickly as expected, but I found that using a good quality long-grain rice made a noticeable difference. Discovering the right seasoning balance was another essential lesson that elevated the dish.

How to Make Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Cooking this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is simple and straightforward. Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, which builds a foundation for flavor. Next, add vegetables and rice, along with broth and spices. As the rice cooks, it absorbs all the savory flavors, resulting in a wonderfully cohesive dish. Expect a rich aroma filling your kitchen as it simmers!

Expert Tips for Success

Choose Lean Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Sauté the Vegetables: Don’t skip this step! Sautéing the onions and bell peppers enhances their flavor, creating a more robust dish.
Use Quality Broth: A good quality beef or vegetable broth can significantly elevate the dish, so opt for low-sodium versions for better control over seasoning.
Allow for Rest Time: After cooking, let the skillet rest for a few minutes off the heat to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro right before serving adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

You can serve this dish family-style right from the skillet for a cozy presentation. Pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a casual atmosphere, serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread. This dish is also great for meal prep, so don’t hesitate to make extra for lunches!

Storage and Reheating Guide

To store, let the skillet cool to room temperature, then transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave individual portions or gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Flavorful Rice: Use coconut milk instead of some of the broth for a creamy, slightly sweet variation.

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is a great source of protein, with around 25 grams per serving, and contains fiber from the rice and vegetables. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free if needed. Keeping portions in mind, a serving size is about 1.5 cups to enjoy balanced nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Rice Not Cooking Properly: If the rice is still crunchy, ensure you’re using the right ratio of liquid to rice and give it a bit more time on low heat to absorb moisture.
Too Salty: If the dish turns out too salty, balance it with a splash of lime juice or vinegar, which can counteract the saltiness.
Greasy Texture: Using leaner ground beef or draining the fat after browning can help prevent a greasy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes! Just remember that brown rice will take longer to cook—about 40 minutes. Adjust the liquid accordingly and add it before the broth so it has enough time to cook through.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make this dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes even better the next day!

3. What type of skillet should I use?
A large, heavy-bottom skillet or a cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking and browning the beef.

4. Can I include other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as corn, peas, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a way to bring family together at the table, filling their hearts with warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy this dish, and happy cooking!

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet (30 minutes)