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 pound ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef with fluffy rice and vegetables.

Created by

Clara Jennings

Last updated on 2025-12-24T12:30:36.516Z

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a family favorite that brings everyone together at the dinner table. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, it's sure to become a staple in your home.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in one pan
Packed with protein and flavor
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Quick and Nutritious Meal

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to cook a nutritious meal can be challenging. This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet provides a solution by combining essential ingredients in one convenient dish. Not only does it save time on cooking and cleanup, but it also ensures that you’re serving a well-balanced meal filled with protein, fiber, and vitamins. With its robust flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe satisfies even the most discerning palates, making it a go-to for busy families.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, ensuring that every time you make it, it feels fresh and exciting. Whether you’re using seasonal produce or leftovers from your fridge, this skillet meal adapts seamlessly to your pantry staples, making it a practical choice for everyday cooking.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch at once, portion it out, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later. This not only cuts down your cooking time during the week but also helps you maintain a healthy eating routine. Simply reheat the portions when you need a quick meal, and you’ll always have a satisfying dish at your fingertips.

Additionally, this recipe stores well and retains its flavors even after a few days in the fridge. The rice continues to soak up the flavors from the beef and spices, making it even tastier on the second or third day. This is an ideal meal for those who appreciate convenience without compromising on flavor.

Kid-Friendly and Delicious

When it comes to family dinners, pleasing picky eaters can be a daunting task. Fortunately, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a hit with kids and adults alike. The ingredients are familiar and comforting, making it an easy sell for even the most selective eaters. Plus, the colorful vegetables and savory flavors can entice children to try new foods, paving the way for healthier eating habits.

Consider involving your children in the cooking process to make it more enjoyable for them. They can help with simple tasks like stirring or sprinkling in the spices, fostering a sense of ownership over their meal. This not only makes mealtime fun but also encourages them to appreciate the effort that goes into preparing delicious homemade food.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned.

Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Rice and Liquids

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

Simmer

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

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!

Ensure to adjust seasoning to your taste before serving.

Storage Tips

To ensure your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet remains fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. When properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to label your containers with the date for easy reference.

When reheating, simply heat it on the stove over low heat until warmed through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick solution. If it seems a bit dry after freezing, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore its original texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different grains by substituting the long-grain white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each of these alternatives brings a unique flavor and texture to the dish, allowing for variety in your meal planning.

Adding additional vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or spinach can boost the nutritional content and add vibrant colors to your skillet. You can also spice things up with chili powder, cumin, or even a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet can be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can elevate your meal. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty flavors of the skillet beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch.

For a complete dinner experience, consider serving it with warm crusty bread or tortillas. These sides are perfect for soaking up any delicious juices left on your plate, ensuring that not a single bite goes to waste. It's a delightful way to round out the meal and keep everyone satisfied.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the amount of liquid.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This skillet is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.