Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and a blend of spices into a hearty and delicious meal. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors meld together beautifully, and you can easily customize it by adding vegetables or extra seasonings. Plus, the whole dish is made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups beef broth or water
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Rice and Spices: Stir in the rice, paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice and spices.
4. Add Liquid: Pour in the beef broth (or water) and bring to a boil. If using, add the diced tomatoes and frozen peas or corn. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the Rice: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra veggies and color.
• Cheesy Beef and Rice: Sprinkle shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend) over the top in the last 5 minutes of cooking and let it melt.
• Spicy Beef and Rice: Add a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the skillet for some extra heat.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Curry-flavored Rice: Add curry powder or garam masala for an Indian-inspired twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the rice.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Use 2 1/2 cups of broth and simmer for 40-45 minutes instead of 15-20 minutes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat and garnish just before serving.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as spinach, broccoli, or peas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetable.

Can I freeze Ground Beef and Rice Skillet?

Yes, it freezes well. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this?

Serve with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or some sliced jalapeños to the beef mixture for more heat.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy days when you need a hearty meal with minimal effort. It’s packed with savory beef, fragrant spices, and tender rice, and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. This one-pan dish is sure to become a regular in your weeknight dinner rotation!

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