Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a hearty and satisfying one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please the entire family. With seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables, it's not only delicious but also quick to prepare.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience makes cleanup a breeze
- Packed with protein and flavor for a complete meal
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables
A Quick and Easy Dinner Solution
When you're juggling a busy schedule, finding the time to prepare a wholesome dinner can be challenging. That's where this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet shines. This recipe not only comes together in one pan, but it also offers a complete meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes. With minimal cleanup required, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with family or friends.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and speed. Just cook the beef, add some veggies, and let it all simmer together with rice and broth. It's a no-fuss approach that guarantees a delicious outcome without the need for elaborate preparations or multiple pots and pans.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While it's packed with classic flavors, you can easily tailor it to suit your preferences or use up what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the bell peppers for zucchini, corn, or any seasonal vegetables you enjoy. You can also adjust the spices to create a milder or spicier version, making it a dish that can cater to everyone’s palate.
Additionally, if you have leftover cooked vegetables or grains, this recipe is a great way to incorporate them. Simply toss them in during the simmering stage, and you'll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a fantastic way to minimize food waste while maximizing flavor.
Great for Meal Prep
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for lunches or dinners. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days, and you can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making it even more enjoyable on day two or three.
For those who like to freeze meals, this skillet dish holds up beautifully. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables and Spices
Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Incorporate Rice and Broth
Add the rice to the skillet, followed by the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot!
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance your dining experience by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet dish.
For a bit of extra flavor, consider topping the skillet with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can also brighten the dish and add an appealing presentation.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Coupled with rice, which provides carbohydrates for energy, this meal ensures you're well-fueled for your day.
The addition of vegetables like bell peppers and onions provides vital vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers are particularly high in vitamin C, while onions offer antioxidants that can support overall health. This makes the Ground Beef and Rice Skillet a well-rounded option for a nourishing dinner.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To ensure your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet stays fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within four days for optimal flavor and safety. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out, and heat gently to maintain the dish's texture.
If you decide to freeze portions, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Label them with the date so you can keep track of freshness. Thaw overnight in the fridge prior to reheating for a quick and convenient meal anytime.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and use more liquid.
→ How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a hearty and satisfying one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Marley Quinn
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Add the rice to the skillet, followed by the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g