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 rice (uncooked); 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 cup beef broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup frozen peas

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that combines ground beef, rice, and vegetables for a satisfying dinner.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T20:01:01.641Z

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a family favorite that comes together in just 30 minutes. It's perfect for busy weeknights and loaded with flavors that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy one-pan meal for busy nights
Savory flavors that satisfy the whole family
Nutritious and filling with protein and vegetables

      

A Simple and Satisfying Meal

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This one-pan dish combines protein-rich ground beef with wholesome rice and vibrant vegetables, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, with minimal cleanup needed, you can spend more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones instead of washing dishes!

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, allowing you to cater to your family's preferences. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or get creative, this skillet meal is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.

Nutritional Benefits

In addition to its great taste, Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is packed with essential nutrients. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. When paired with rice, this recipe provides a balanced meal that offers both carbohydrates and proteins, fueling your body and keeping you energized throughout the day.

The inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers and peas adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while peas provide fiber and additional protein. This combination makes the dish not only filling but also a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients, especially for children who may be reluctant to eat their veggies.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers in individual portions for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, and you have a homemade meal ready in minutes.

Storing this dish is simple, too. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual portions. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, making it a hassle-free option for busy days.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup rice (uncooked)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 cup beef broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup frozen peas

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process!

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Rice and Liquid

Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

Add Peas and Season

Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Rice Skillet!

Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. A fresh garden salad can complement the hearty flavors of the skillet, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with some garlic bread or warm tortillas, which can be used to scoop up the delicious mixture.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to your serving. This can elevate the flavors and cater to spice lovers. Experimenting with toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream can also add a delicious twist, making each serving a little different.

Storage Tips

To store any leftovers, allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent sogginess. Make sure to label the container with the date, so you can easily track how long it has been in the fridge or freezer.

For freezing, portion the skillet into smaller containers. This way, you can easily grab just the right amount for a meal without having to thaw the entire dish. When reheating, ensure that the meal is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.

Variations to Try

Feel free to switch up the protein by using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Both alternatives work well with the same cooking method and will still deliver a delicious meal. Additionally, you can incorporate different grains like quinoa or brown rice for added health benefits and unique flavors.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils. This will not only keep the dish hearty but also make it suitable for plant-based diets without compromising on taste or texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add corn, carrots, or any other vegetables you have on hand.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet meal in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.