Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet combines tender beef, fluffy rice, and rich tomato flavors into a satisfying dish the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is quick, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. Everything cooks in one pan, which means fewer dishes and more flavor. It’s a budget-friendly meal packed with protein, simple ingredients, and classic comfort food taste.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef stock
- 1 cup uncooked white long grain rice
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Cheddar-Jack blend
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and press it into an even layer. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until browned underneath.
- Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Break up the beef and cook for 5–6 minutes until fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), beef stock, rice, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, stir gently, and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Cover for 2 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Tips & Tricks
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting
- Swap white rice with brown rice (increase cooking time)
- Add chili flakes or paprika for extra heat
- Use beef sausage instead of ground beef for variation
- Stir occasionally to prevent rice from sticking
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, High-Protein
Notes
- You can add corn or peas for extra texture
- Works great for meal prep lunches
- Serve with a side salad or flatbread
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 18g
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase cooking time and add extra liquid.
Can I make Ground Beef and Rice Skillet ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well and is perfect for meal prep.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend melts beautifully.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?
Avoid overcooking and use the correct liquid ratio.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth and reheat on stovetop or microwave
Similar Recipes
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef stock
- 1 cup uncooked white long grain rice
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar Monterey Jack, or Cheddar-Jack blend
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and press it into an even layer. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until browned underneath.
- Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Break up the beef and cook for 5–6 minutes until fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), beef stock, rice, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, stir gently, and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Cover for 2 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
- This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner
Notes
- You can add corn or peas for extra texture
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry family without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular favorite.