This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder! It brings together tasty ground beef, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies for a filling meal that’s super easy to whip up.
I love how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for busy nights! Plus, my family always devours it, and who can resist one-pan clean-up? Time to make some happy plates! 🍽️
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I used 80/20 ground beef for its perfect balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well too. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives to keep it vegetarian.
Rice: Long-grain or jasmine rice gives a fluffy texture. Substitute with brown rice for added nutrients, but remember to increase the cooking time and liquid to about 2.5 cups.
Beef Broth: Beef broth adds richness. If you’re vegetarian, use vegetable broth or water. Homemade broth can really enhance the flavor if you have some on hand.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and flavor. You can use fresh diced tomatoes or even fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a smoky twist.
Spices: The chili powder, cumin, and paprika create depth. Feel free to adjust these based on your taste or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat. Herbs like oregano or thyme can also be a great addition for variation.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Cook Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking rice in this skillet method requires paying attention to timing and liquid measurements. Start with the right ratio: 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of liquid. After combining, bring it to a simmer before covering it. Here are the steps:
- Use medium heat to bring the broth mixture to a light simmer.
- Cover the skillet tightly to trap steam; this helps cook the rice evenly.
- Don’t lift the lid too often while it cooks; this releases steam and can cause the rice to undercook.
- Check around the 18-minute mark, and if it’s still firm, add a bit more broth or water and let it cook a little longer.
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How to Make Ground Beef and Rice Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
Spices and Condiments:
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes to have a delicious Ground Beef and Rice Skillet ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion. Cook the onion for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until the garlic smells really good!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart and make sure to cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of fat, drain it out to keep the dish nice and lean.
3. Mix in the Rice and Spices:
Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (make sure to include their juices for flavor), beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and bring the mixture to a simmer—this means it should start bubbling gently.
4. Cook the Rice:
Now, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 18-20 minutes, checking occasionally to stir gently and prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. It’s ready when the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Add Cheese and Melt:
Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the skillet. Cover it again and let it sit for another 5 minutes so the cheese can melt beautifully on top.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your dish with some fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Scoop it onto plates and enjoy your hearty Ground Beef and Rice Skillet!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the meat is fully cooked before proceeding with the recipe.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions. You can also use spicy diced tomatoes instead of regular ones, or top your serving with hot sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Use White Rice Instead of Long-Grain or Jasmine Rice?
You can! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary since white rice typically cooks faster. You’ll need to adjust the liquid and monitor the rice more closely, reducing the cooking time to about 15 minutes or until tender and the liquid is absorbed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist as you heat it up.
