Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

There are some meals that feel like a warm hug at the end of a busy day, and this Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is one of them. Picture it: tender rice, juicy ground beef, sweet peppers, onions, and garlic all simmering together in a savory tomato-based broth. Add a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top, and you’ve got a skillet dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and family-approved.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It comes together in one pan, takes minimal prep, and delivers maximum comfort. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight, meal prepping for the week ahead, or needing something quick for last-minute guests, this dish checks all the boxes.

What makes this skillet stand out is the way everyday ingredients transform into something so satisfying. The smoky paprika and oregano balance the brightness of tomatoes, while the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors. And with just one pan to wash at the end of the night, it’s as practical as it is tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: Less mess, less cleanup, and more time to relax.
• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable proteins.
• Customizable: Swap veggies, spices, or protein based on what you have.
• Family-approved: Kid-friendly and hearty enough for adults.
• Meal-prep friendly: Stores well and reheats beautifully for lunches.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 4 servings and uses simple, accessible ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Protein

• 1 lb lean ground beef – Opt for 85–90% lean for the best balance of flavor and less grease.

Grains

• 1 cup long-grain white rice – Holds up beautifully and absorbs flavors without getting mushy.

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – Any color works; red and yellow add sweetness, while green adds a mild bitterness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Builds flavor and aroma.

Liquids & Base

• 2 cups beef broth – Provides rich flavor and cooks the rice to perfection.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds acidity, moisture, and brightness.

Seasonings

• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
• 1 tsp paprika – Adds smoky depth.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – Earthy and herbaceous.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential flavor boosters.

Optional Topping

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey deliciousness for an extra-comforting finish.

Tools & Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets for this skillet dinner. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large skillet with lid (12-inch is ideal)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (if using fresh cheddar cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bring everything together into a hearty, one-pan masterpiece.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Dice the onion and bell pepper.
• Mince the garlic.
• Measure out rice, broth, and spices so they’re ready to go.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
• Cook until browned and no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes).
• Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove excess grease if needed.

3. Add the Vegetables

• Stir in diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
• Cook until softened and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).

4. Build the Flavor Base

• Sprinkle in paprika and oregano. Stir well so the spices coat the beef and veggies.
• Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir to combine.

5. Cook the Rice

• Stir in the rice and beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
• Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18–20 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finish the Dish

• When the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, taste and adjust seasonings with more salt and pepper if needed.
• Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover for 2–3 minutes, and let it melt.

7. Serve & Enjoy

• Fluff the skillet with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like, and serve hot straight from the pan.

Tips & Variations

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Vegetarian swap: Replace beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
• Protein variation: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.
• Cheesy upgrade: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack.
• Rice swap: Try brown rice (increase cooking time by 10–12 minutes) or quinoa for added nutrition.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This skillet dish is savory, hearty, and slightly smoky with a comforting balance of tomatoes, spices, and tender rice. The melted cheddar topping adds creaminess, while the bell peppers and onions give it freshness.

Drink Pairings

• Wine: A medium-bodied red like Merlot or Zinfandel.
• Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with lime or a lightly sweetened iced tea.

Side Dish Pairings

• Crisp garden salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or warm tortillas
• Roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or green beans

Nutritional Overview (per serving, without cheese)

• Calories: ~360
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g

Adding cheddar cheese increases calories and fat slightly while boosting protein and flavor.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Make ahead: Chop vegetables up to 2 days in advance.
• Meal prep: Store cooked portions in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep rice moist.
• Freezer-friendly: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant rice?
Yes! Reduce the broth to 1 ½ cups and simmer for only 10–12 minutes.

2. What if I don’t have beef broth?
Use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with a bouillon cube.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely—just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

4. How do I prevent rice from sticking?
Stir occasionally while simmering, and make sure the skillet is covered tightly.

5. Can I double this recipe?
Yes—use a deep skillet or Dutch oven for best results.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Task	Time
Prep	Chop veggies, mince garlic	10 min
Cook	Brown beef, sauté veggies	10 min
Simmer	Add rice, broth, tomatoes	20 min
Finish	Melt cheese & garnish	5 min
Total Time	–	45 min

Serving Suggestions

• Serve family-style straight from the skillet for a rustic, comforting vibe.
• Add toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or sour cream for Tex-Mex flair.
• Pack into meal prep containers with a side of roasted veggies for grab-and-go lunches.

Recipe Variations

• Mexican-style Skillet: Add taco seasoning and black beans, top with cilantro and lime.
• Italian-style Skillet: Use Italian seasoning, swap cheddar for mozzarella, and finish with fresh basil.
• Casserole Version: Transfer cooked skillet mixture to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes.

Ingredient Spotlight: Rice

Rice is the backbone of this dish, soaking up all the flavors. For best results, rinse your rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. Store rice in a sealed container in a cool, dry place. For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the rice in olive oil before adding broth.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Use a wide skillet to allow rice to cook evenly.
• Don’t lift the lid too often while simmering—this traps steam needed for fluffy rice.
• Taste and season at the very end for best balance.
• For deeper flavor, brown the beef until slightly crispy before adding vegetables.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer bags or containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Add a splash of broth when microwaving to keep it moist. Avoid reheating multiple times for best texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving, without cheese)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
360	23g	35g	14g	4g

Dietary Notes:

• Gluten-free (with GF broth).
• Dairy-free without cheese.
• High-protein and family-friendly.

Conclusion

This Easy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the kind of meal that makes weeknights easier and tastier. With budget-friendly ingredients, one-pan convenience, and plenty of flavor, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it cheesy and comforting or light and simple, it’s a recipe that’s endlessly adaptable and guaranteed to please.

So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and let this dish bring a little joy (and a lot of flavor) to your table tonight.

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