30 Minutes Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

Ground beef and rice is one of those versatile, hearty, and comforting dishes that can be prepared quickly for a satisfying meal. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a simple dinner solution.

Introduction

What is Ground Beef and Rice Skillet?

A Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a simple, one-pan meal that combines ground beef, rice, and various seasonings to create a flavorful and filling dish. It typically involves sautéing the ground beef with onions and garlic, then simmering it with rice and broth to infuse the rice with flavor. The result is a comforting, savory dish that can be made in under 30 minutes.

Why It’s a Great Choice

Ground beef and rice is both affordable and versatile, making it ideal for busy families, college students, or anyone who enjoys quick meals. By utilizing simple pantry staples, this dish offers a quick solution to the daily question: “What’s for dinner?”

This meal is not only filling but can also be easily adapted based on what ingredients you have on hand. The beef can be swapped with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based protein sources. The rice can be substituted for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

Overview of the Recipe

In this recipe, the ground beef is browned and seasoned to perfection, then combined with rice, onions, garlic, and broth. The dish is cooked in one skillet, making cleanup easy. It’s a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and essential vitamins, all in one.

Preparation

Prepping the Ingredients

1. Chop Vegetables: Begin by dicing the onion and any other vegetables you’re adding, like bell peppers. Mince the garlic and set it aside.
2. Measure the Rice and Broth: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear (this is especially important for white rice to remove excess starch). Measure out the broth so it’s ready to go.
3. Prep the Ground Beef: If your ground beef has a lot of fat, you might want to drain some of it off after browning. This will prevent the dish from becoming greasy.

Tools You’ll Need

• A large skillet or sauté pan (at least 10 inches in diameter)
• A wooden spoon for stirring
• A measuring cup for rice and broth
• A sharp knife and cutting board

Cooking Method

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef.
2. Break the beef up with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it off at this point.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Broth

1. Once the beef and onion mixture is ready, stir in the rice and any optional seasonings or tomato paste you’re using. Let the rice cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly toast it and allow the flavors to meld.
2. Pour in the broth, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid.

Step 3: Simmer the Skillet

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
2. If using brown rice, it may take closer to 30 minutes to cook. If the liquid evaporates before the rice is fully cooked, you can add a bit more broth or water to help the rice cook through.

Step 4: Final Touches

Once the rice is cooked, check the seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or any other seasonings you like. If desired, sprinkle some cheese on top and cover the skillet for a few minutes to melt it. Add vegetables like frozen peas, corn, or diced tomatoes, and stir them in to heat through.

Tips and Tricks

How to Prevent the Rice from Burning

• Stir regularly: Stirring the rice every 5 minutes ensures it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
• Use enough liquid: Make sure there’s enough liquid to cook the rice properly. If you notice the rice drying out, add more broth or water.
• Cover the skillet: Keep the skillet covered as it simmers to trap the steam and help the rice cook evenly.

Adjusting Texture and Flavor

• For creamy rice: Stir in a tablespoon of butter or sour cream at the end of cooking.
• For more texture: You can add diced vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to the skillet.
• Add a citrus kick: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice at the end can elevate the flavors.

Making It Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, or Vegetarian

• Gluten-Free: Ensure you’re using certified gluten-free broth and check the rice packaging for any gluten traces.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese substitute if you prefer.
• Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian version.

Recipe Variations

Adding Vegetables

One of the easiest ways to elevate this dish is to add vegetables. Here are some great options:

• Bell Peppers: They cook quickly and add sweetness and crunch.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in some leafy greens at the end for added nutrients.
• Mushrooms: Sauté with the onions for an earthy flavor.

Turning It into a Casserole

You can easily transform this dish into a casserole by layering it in a baking dish and topping it with cheese. Bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Beef and Rice Taco Skillet

For a taco-inspired twist, add taco seasoning to the beef while it’s browning. After cooking, top the skillet with shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, and crushed tortilla chips.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the beef and rice.
• Garlic Bread: A few slices of garlic bread are perfect for soaking up any sauce in the skillet.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted veggies for a more well-rounded meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Make sure to add extra liquid and extend the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Conclusion

This 30-Minute Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that checks all the boxes: hearty, flavorful, and customizable. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or try one of the variations, you’ll end up with a satisfying dish that your whole family will love. Experiment with different seasonings, proteins, and vegetables to make it your own! Enjoy!

Further Recipe Variations

While the basic recipe for Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is delicious as-is, it can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or pantry ingredients. Below are some fun variations and enhancements to make this dish your own:

Spicy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

If you like a little heat in your meal, a spicy version of this dish could be just what you’re looking for.

• Add chopped jalapeños (fresh or pickled) to the pan after the onions and garlic have sautéed. You can adjust the level of heat by removing the seeds.
• Stir in chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce after browning the beef to kick up the heat.
• Top with salsa or spicy sour cream for added flavor.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

To make this dish extra indulgent and comforting, add a cheesy twist!

• Cheddar cheese: Add a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet once the rice is done cooking. Stir it in until it melts, creating a creamy, cheesy beef and rice dish.
• Cream cheese: For a rich, creamy texture, mix in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese when the rice is finished cooking.
• Mozzarella or Mexican Blend: Mozzarella adds a stringy, gooey texture, while a Mexican blend of cheeses will give it that authentic taco flavor.

Ground Beef and Rice Stir-Fry

Transform this skillet into a stir-fry by adding vegetables and adjusting the flavor profile.

• Use soy sauce or tamari for a savory, umami flavor. You can also add a teaspoon of hoisin sauce or oyster sauce for extra richness.
• Add vegetables like carrots, peas, or snap peas when the beef is browned, and stir-fry them with the beef.
• Top with sesame seeds and green onions for added crunch and flavor.

Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers Skillet

Turn this skillet meal into a stuffed pepper variation for an extra special presentation.

• Cut bell peppers in half (removing the seeds) and place them in the skillet after the beef and rice mixture has cooked.
• Fill each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, then top with cheese. Cover the skillet and let the peppers cook for 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese has melted.

Mexican-Inspired Beef and Rice Skillet

For a more taco-flavored dish, make a Mexican-style beef and rice skillet.

• Add taco seasoning to the ground beef while it’s browning.
• Stir in canned diced tomatoes (drained) and a little black beans or corn for extra texture.
• Top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and avocado slices for a fresh finishing touch.

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

If you prefer to bake rather than cook on the stovetop, turn this skillet dish into a casserole.

• Prepare the beef and rice mixture as directed.
• Transfer it to a greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Vegetarian or Vegan Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

For those following a plant-based diet, you can easily adapt this recipe by swapping out the ground beef for vegetarian or vegan options.

• Use plant-based crumbles (like Beyond Meat or Impossible Meat) or lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian substitute.
• Replace beef broth with vegetable broth.
• You can also use a plant-based cheese substitute if you want to make it vegan and still enjoy that cheesy texture.

How to Make a Double Batch for Meal Prep

Making a double batch of this ground beef and rice skillet is a great idea for meal prepping, as it can be stored in the fridge and eaten throughout the week. Here’s how to ensure your meal prep is both efficient and tasty:

1. Cook Twice as Much: Simply double the ingredients in the recipe, keeping the same cooking method.
2. Store in Individual Portions: Once cooked, divide the meal into airtight containers in single-serving sizes. This helps control portions and makes it easier to grab-and-go during the week.
3. Store Properly: This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re storing it longer, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
4. Reheat Well: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. If it’s frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. If the rice looks a bit dry after reheating, simply add a splash of water or broth before microwaving.

Side Dish Ideas to Serve with Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

While the Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal on its own, pairing it with some complementary side dishes can round out the meal, especially if you’re feeding a crowd or want to add more variety to the dinner table. Below are some excellent side dish ideas that pair perfectly with this dish:

1. Fresh Salad with Light Dressing

A simple, refreshing salad can balance the richness of the beef and rice. Consider a green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Dress it lightly with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, or use your favorite vinaigrette.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, zucchini, and brussels sprouts make a nutritious and colorful side. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until tender.

3. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

If you want something indulgent to sop up the flavors, serve your beef and rice skillet with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls. These are especially delicious if you’ve added extra broth or cheese to the skillet.

4. Guacamole and Chips

For a Mexican-inspired version, serve your skillet with guacamole and tortilla chips on the side. The creamy guacamole pairs beautifully with the savory, spiced beef, and the chips provide a delightful crunch.

5. Sautéed Greens (Spinach, Kale, or Swiss Chard)

If you’d like to add more nutrients to your meal, sauté some greens in olive oil with a little garlic. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for extra flavor. Kale, spinach, or Swiss chard are all excellent choices.

6. Steamed Asparagus

Asparagus has a fresh, bright flavor that pairs well with the savory depth of ground beef and rice. Simply steam the asparagus until tender (about 5-7 minutes) and drizzle with a little olive oil or lemon juice.

7. Mexican Corn on the Cob

For a fun, flavorful side dish, try Mexican street corn (Elote). Grill or boil the corn on the cob, then slather it with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and sprinkle with cotija cheese.

How to Adjust for Dietary Preferences

When preparing a meal like Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, it’s easy to tailor the recipe to meet specific dietary preferences. Here are some quick ideas for adjustments:

For Gluten-Free Diets:

• Ensure all broth and seasonings are gluten-free. Some pre-packaged taco seasoning or broth mixes may contain gluten, so read labels carefully or use homemade versions.
• If using soy sauce in variations like stir-fries, opt for gluten-free tamari.

For Dairy-Free Diets:

• Skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also add a splash of dairy-free cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy texture.
• Use dairy-free butter if you’re adding a rich touch to the dish.

For Low-Carb Diets:

• Swap the rice for a low-carb alternative like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These can be added in place of rice in the skillet toward the end of the cooking process.
• Reduce or eliminate any high-carb additions like corn or beans.

For Keto Diets:

• Stick to cauliflower rice as a substitute for regular rice.
• Skip any starchy vegetables and instead add more protein (such as extra ground beef or chicken) and non-starchy veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.

The 30-Minute Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a fantastic, adaptable recipe that can be made in a flash and customized to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and preferences. Whether you’re sticking to the basic version or trying one of the many variations, this dish delivers on flavor, comfort, and convenience. It’s an excellent weeknight dinner for families, meal preppers, or anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal.

Yield: 4

30 Minutes Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

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The 30-Minute Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a fantastic, adaptable recipe that can be made in a flash and customized to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and preferences. Whether you're sticking to the basic version or trying one of the many variations, this dish delivers on flavor, comfort, and convenience. It’s an excellent weeknight dinner for families, meal preppers, or anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil)
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Cook the ground beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté vegetables:
Add the chopped onion (and bell pepper, if using) to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add rice and seasonings:
Stir in the uncooked rice, chili powder, paprika, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Toast the rice in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to coat it with the seasonings.

Add liquids:
Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir everything together to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Finish and serve:
Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.

Notes

1. Ground Beef Selection:
2. Lean Ground Beef (90% lean or higher) is recommended for a leaner dish, but regular ground beef (80% lean) will give a richer flavor due to its higher fat content. Choose according to your preference or dietary needs.
3. Substitute with Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you're looking for a leaner protein option or prefer poultry, ground turkey or chicken work well in this dish. You can even use ground pork for a different flavor profile.
4. Vegetarian or Vegan Options: If you're following a plant-based diet, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles (such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Meat) or lentils. These alternatives will mimic the texture and protein content of ground beef.
5. Rice Choices:
6. White Rice is the most common and cooks the fastest, but if you prefer something heartier, brown rice or wild rice is a great alternative. Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook (about 30 minutes), so you may need to add extra liquid and cooking time.
7. Instant Rice: For even faster preparation, you can use instant rice. It cooks in just a few minutes, so reduce the cooking time after adding the rice and broth.
8. Broth Options:
9. Beef Broth will provide a rich, savory base for this dish, but you can also opt for chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even bone broth for different flavors or dietary needs.
10. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute water and add extra seasonings to taste, but broth provides much more flavor.
11. Adjusting for Spiciness:
12. If you like a spicy dish, you can add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Fresh jalapeños or other hot peppers can also be added to the onions and garlic for extra heat.
13. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, start with less seasoning, and gradually increase according to your taste.
14. Vegetable Additions:
15. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or peas to the skillet. These can either be added when sautéing the onions or stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
16. Frozen vegetables are an excellent time-saving addition, and they work especially well in this dish.

Cooking Tips:

1. Preventing Burnt Rice:
2. To avoid the rice burning or sticking to the bottom of the skillet, stir occasionally to ensure that the rice doesn’t settle and become too crispy.
3. Monitor the heat carefully. Start on medium-high to brown the beef, then lower the heat to low or simmer once you add the broth. High heat can cause the rice to burn before it fully cooks.
4. If the liquid evaporates too quickly before the rice is done, add a splash more broth or water and cover the skillet again to trap the steam.
5. Ensuring Even Cooking:
6. Sauté the ground beef until it’s fully cooked and broken up into small pieces. This helps it cook evenly and allows the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
7. If using brown rice, double-check the cooking time and make sure to add extra liquid as needed. Brown rice takes about 30 minutes to cook compared to the 15-20 minutes needed for white rice.
8. Making the Dish Creamy:
9. For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of sour cream, cream cheese, or even a splash of heavy cream toward the end of cooking.
10. If you like cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend cheese can be melted into the dish for a rich, gooey texture.
11. Layering Flavors:
12. To enhance flavor, you can use smoked paprika, cumin, or a pinch of oregano for an extra dimension. These spices will give the dish an aromatic depth.
13. A splash of vinegar or lime juice just before serving will brighten up the dish and cut through the richness.

Serving and Storing Notes:

1. Serving Suggestions:
2. This dish is hearty on its own, but serving it with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or sliced avocado will balance the flavors.
3. Consider pairing it with crusty bread or garlic bread to sop up any juices.
4. If you’re making a Mexican-inspired variation, serving it with salsa, guacamole, or a side of tortilla chips adds a great texture contrast.
5. Storing Leftovers:
6. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
7. This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or water if it has dried out.
8. For longer storage, the beef and rice skillet can be frozen in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
9. Meal Prep:
10. This recipe is ideal for meal prep since it holds up well over several days. Divide the skillet into individual servings and store in containers to make quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
11. Adding a side salad, roasted veggies, or some fruit to the meal prep containers makes for a more complete meal.

Customization and Variations Notes:

1. Make It Mexican-Inspired:
2. Add taco seasoning to the ground beef and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Serve with corn tortillas or chips for a full taco experience.
3. Black beans or corn can be added to the skillet for an even heartier meal.
4. For Low-Carb or Keto Diets:
5. Cauliflower rice can replace the regular rice, providing the same texture without the carbs. You can stir it in at the end of cooking for a quick and easy swap.
6. For added flavor, cheese (especially cream cheese) can also be incorporated to make the dish richer.
7. Making it Gluten-Free:
8. Ensure that all broths, seasonings, and sauces are labeled gluten-free if necessary.
9. You can use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce or homemade taco seasoning to ensure the dish remains gluten-free.
10. Vegan/Vegetarian Notes:
11. Replace the ground beef with plant-based protein (like crumbles or lentils). Add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the dish's volume and flavor.
12. Make sure to use vegetable broth and skip the cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative if desired.

Flavor Enhancements:

1. Herb Variations:
2. Fresh or dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary pairs nicely with ground beef and rice. Stir these herbs in after sautéing the beef or sprinkle them on top before serving.
3. Fresh parsley or basil can add brightness and freshness.
4. Citrus Additions:
5. Adding a squeeze of lime or lemon juice at the end of cooking, or even some zest, brightens up the richness of the beef and rice, adding a fresh note.
6. Sweetness Balance:
7. For a balance of savory and sweet, consider adding raisins or sultanas, especially if you’re making a Middle Eastern-style variation. The sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory spices.
8. Texture Variations:
9. Nuts such as toasted almonds or pine nuts can add an unexpected crunch, especially if you’re making a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean-style dish.
10. Crispy fried onions as a topping can add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to the dish.