Ground Beef & Rice Skillet
This Ground Beef & Rice Skillet is a budget-friendly, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple ingredients, packed with flavor, and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying and hearty dish that’s easy to customize. Whether you enjoy it as is, with extra veggies, or topped with cheese, this skillet meal is a keeper for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Beef & Rice:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
For Extra Flavor:
- ½ cup canned diced tomatoes or 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add Aromatics & Veggies
- Stir in onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. If using, add diced bell peppers, carrots, or frozen peas at this stage.
Cook the Rice
- Add uncooked rice, beef broth, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir well, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Finish with Flavor
- Stir in diced tomatoes or tomato paste for extra depth. If adding cheese, sprinkle it on top, cover, and let it melt before serving.
Serve & Enjoy
- Fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Use brown rice instead of white, but add an extra ½ cup broth and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 4 days or frozen for 3 months.