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 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. With savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a blend of vegetables, it's a family favorite!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2025-12-24T18:42:34.331Z

This dish brings together the hearty flavors of ground beef and rice, making it a comforting meal that everyone will love. It's not only delicious but also a breeze to make!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in one pan
Savory flavors that appeal to all ages
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

A Flavorful One-Pan Meal

The Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is not just another dinner option; it’s a wholesome meal that brings together the rich flavors of beef, the heartiness of rice, and the vibrancy of vegetables. This combination creates a satisfying dish that will leave everyone at the table happy and full. With its blend of textures and tastes, it's a delightful way to enjoy a classic combination that’s been loved for generations.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With everything cooked in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. You can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in about 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Endless Customization

Another great feature of this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys most. Zucchini, corn, or even spinach can be fantastic additions, making this dish your own. Additionally, you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, whether you prefer a spicier kick or a more herbaceous profile.

This recipe is also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients. If you have cooked vegetables or grains, feel free to toss them in for added flavor and nutrition. The adaptability of this dish means it can evolve with your pantry and preferences, ensuring that it never gets old.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to streamline your weekly meals, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious the next day.

Simply store the skillet in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and when you're ready to enjoy, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. This method not only saves time but also helps you maintain a balanced diet, ensuring you have a homemade meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure to wash and chop all vegetables before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Cook the Beef

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

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

Add Rice and Broth

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

Simmer

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

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm. Enjoy your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet!

This dish can be topped with cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor!

Storage Tips

To keep your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will typically last for about 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

If you want to extend its shelf life even further, consider freezing portions of the skillet. This meal freezes well, and you can reheat it directly from frozen. Just allow for extra cooking time when warming it up, and enjoy a comforting meal whenever you like.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet can be served on its own or paired with a variety of sides. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make for a fresh and light complement to the rich flavors of the skillet. You might also consider serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish even further. You can also add grated cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor, making it an even more satisfying and hearty meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

→ What can I serve with this skillet dish?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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