Description
A quick and satisfying one-pan meal, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes. Made with ground beef, rice, and seasonings, it’s perfect for a hearty, easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (long-grain preferred)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook ground beef, breaking it apart, until browned (5–7 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the Aromatics – Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add Rice & Seasonings – Stir in rice, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toast for 1 minute.
- Simmer Everything Together – Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cheese & Serve – Sprinkle with cheese if using, cover for 2–3 minutes until melted. Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
- Rice Options: Brown rice requires 35–40 minutes of cooking and extra broth.
- Veggies: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend work well
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Ground beef skillet, one-pan meal, beef and rice recipe, quick dinner, easy skillet meal