Welcome to my cozy kitchen, where I can’t get enough of this ground beef and rice skillet! Seriously, this dish is a game changer. It’s one of those simple, yet hearty meals that come together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I love how all the flavors meld together in just one pan—less mess and more time to enjoy! One-pan meals have always been a favorite of mine because they’re not only easy to whip up, but they also create such comforting, satisfying dishes. Trust me, once you try this skillet, it’ll become a staple in your home, too!
Ingredients for Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious ground beef and rice skillet. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef – I usually go for lean to keep it a bit healthier!
- 1 cup rice – White rice works great, but feel free to use brown for a nuttier flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth – This adds a rich depth, but chicken broth will do in a pinch!
- 1 onion, chopped – I love a good yellow onion for sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic makes all the difference!
- 1 can diced tomatoes – Look for ones with herbs for extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – This adds a lovely smoky touch.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy with seasoning!
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) – Because who doesn’t love melty cheese?
With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to a hearty, flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
How to Prepare Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Now, let’s dive into making this delightful ground beef and rice skillet! Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your skillet turns out perfectly.
Step 1 – Brown the Ground Beef
First things first, heat your skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. It’s super important to cook it at this temperature—if it’s too high, you might end up with tough meat. As it cooks, use a spatula to break it apart so it browns evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nice and brown, and the sizzling sound is music to your ears!
Step 2 – Sauté Onions and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Oh man, the aroma that fills your kitchen is incredible! Sauté them until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the flavors of your dish, making it even more irresistible!
Step 3 – Add the Rice
Next, stir in the rice and let it cook for about 2 minutes. This is where things start to get exciting! The rice will soak up all those fantastic flavors from the beef and aromatics. Just keep stirring to make sure everything blends beautifully.
Step 4 – Combine Remaining Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure you stir everything well to combine all the ingredients evenly. This step is crucial as it ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
Step 5 – Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is perfectly cooked and has absorbed all that delicious broth. This is the magic moment when everything melds together into a comforting one-pan meal!
Step 6 – Add Cheese
If you’re feeling cheesy (and who isn’t?), sprinkle the shredded cheese on top right before serving. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. Wow, talk about a delicious finishing touch!
Nutritional Information for Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Curious about what’s in this hearty dish? Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of my ground beef and rice skillet:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g (Fiber: 2g)
- Sodium: 800mg
- Sugar: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. It’s a comforting meal that satisfies without being too heavy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ground beef and rice skillet is truly a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen:
- Quick: Whip it up in just 40 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Flavorful: All the ingredients come together to create a rich, delicious dish that everyone will love.
- Healthy: Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a satisfying option for the whole family.
- One-pan clean-up: Less mess means more time to relax and enjoy your meal!
Trust me, you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again!
Tips for Success
To ensure your ground beef and rice skillet turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t rush the browning of the beef; letting it cook thoroughly adds a rich flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding spices like chili powder or cumin to elevate the taste! For a veggie boost, toss in some diced bell peppers or corn along with the onions and garlic. Adjust the seasoning to your liking—taste as you go! And if you prefer a creamier texture, consider stirring in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving. These small tweaks can make a big difference, trust me!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers from your ground beef and rice skillet can be stored easily! Just transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop over medium heat. Just add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist while warming it up. You can also microwave individual portions—just cover them to retain moisture. It’s that easy to bring back the deliciousness!
FAQ About Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Got questions about making the perfect ground beef and rice skillet? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes a bit longer to cook, so you’ll want to increase the simmering time to about 30-40 minutes. Make sure to adjust the broth accordingly too!
What if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries at all! Chicken broth or even vegetable broth can work just fine. Each will add a different flavor, but they’ll all be delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You sure can! This skillet meal holds up well in the fridge. Just cook it as usual, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container. Reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is! Just be sure to check the labels on your broth and any other packaged ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free. Easy peasy!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re craving a bit of heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce. Spice it up to your heart’s content!
Print
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet: Easy 1-Pan Comfort Meal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious one-pan meal made with ground beef and rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Stir in rice and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add beef broth, tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
- If using, sprinkle cheese on top and cover until melted.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Use brown rice for a healthier option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: ground beef, rice, skillet meal, one-pan recipe
