Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and satisfying one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a family favorite that combines flavors and textures in a simple, comforting dish. It's a great way to use pantry staples and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables and spices.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just one pan
- Flavorful blend of beef, rice, and spices
- Perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd
A Quick and Nutritious Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a nutritious meal can be a challenge. The Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the perfect solution for busy families and individuals looking for a quick dinner option. This one-pan dish not only saves on cleanup time but also ensures that you can enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Packed with protein from the ground beef and fiber from the vegetables and rice, this dish is designed to keep you full and satisfied. It's an excellent way to incorporate essential nutrients into your diet without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you prefer chicken or turkey, feel free to swap out the ground beef for a leaner protein option. Vegetarians can replace the meat with lentils or beans for a hearty plant-based version.
Additionally, you can experiment with different spices and herbs to enhance the flavor profile. Adding ingredients like corn, black beans, or even some spicy jalapeños can elevate the dish and make it your own. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your meal rotation.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time and ensure you have healthy meals ready throughout the week. The Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is ideal for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated. Simply divide the cooked skillet into single-serving containers, and you’ll have quick lunches or dinners ready to go.
Not only does meal prepping help you stick to a healthy eating plan, but it also reduces food waste. You can use up leftover vegetables or grains by incorporating them into this dish. Plus, with its delicious flavors, you won't get bored eating the same meal multiple times during the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own!
Instructions
Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and paprika.
Add Rice and Tomatoes
Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Simmer
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serve
Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious ground beef and rice skillet!
This dish is great served with a side of salad or garlic bread!
Storage Tips
To store leftovers from your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. The meal can last up to three months in the freezer, making it an excellent option for those busy weeks ahead.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen skillet, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or water to bring back moisture.
Serving Suggestions
This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a variety of sides. A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar makes a refreshing accompaniment, while cornbread or crusty bread can soak up the tasty juices.
For a touch of freshness, consider topping your skillet with chopped cilantro or parsley. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added richness. These small additions can transform your dish into a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers numerous nutritional benefits. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which are vital for maintaining energy levels and supporting immune function. Coupled with fiber-rich rice and vegetables, this dish provides a balanced meal that fuels your body effectively.
The inclusion of bell peppers and tomatoes adds vitamins A and C, contributing to overall health and well-being. By preparing this dish at home, you can control the ingredients and ensure that you are eating a wholesome, nutritious meal without unnecessary additives or preservatives.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid.
→ What vegetables can I add to this skillet?
Feel free to add peas, corn, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it when you're ready to serve.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and ensure your rice is gluten-free.
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet
A hearty and satisfying one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Created by: Grace Walker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, chili powder, and paprika.
Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Bring 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 tender and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious ground beef and rice skillet!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 24g