After a long day, sometimes i dont have time to stand over the stove forever. This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet puts beef, rice, veggies and spices all into one pan so dinner is quick and easy. There's barely any dishes to wash so you can eat and chill faster.
What makes it cool is you can tweak it any way you want. Throw in different veggies, change rice out for another grain or even add beans, cheese or herbs. With just a few ingrediants and simple steps, this skillet meals gonna be your go-to when you need somthing fast.
Introduction
Sometimes you just want a warm meal thats easy to make and tastes good, and this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet fits the bill. You brown some meat, stir in rice, pour broth and let it cook all in the same pan. Its perfect for busy nights when youre starving but dont wanna fuss.
The best part is you can make it your own. If you feel like spicing it up, add jalapenos or use cumin and chili powder for a taco version. Or keep it simple with just salt and pepper. No matter what, its a filling dinner that wont take hours.
Ingredients
To make this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, youll need:
- Ground beef: I like lean beef so it aint too greasy, but use what you got.
- Rice: White or brown rice is fine, just rinse it well so it dont get all sticky.
- Broth: Beef or chicken broth gives more flavor, but water works too if youre in a pinch.
- Onions, garlic, and bell peppers: Chop em up so they cook quick.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin pull it all together.
- Optional ingredients: Cheese, beans, or extra veggies if you want more color or protein.
Also, grab these tools before you start:
- Skillet or frying pan: Preferably one that wont stick, so you dont need extra oil.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Eyeballing works but measuring gives better results, wich helps avoid messy spills.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring without scratching your pan.
Detailed Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
First, chop up the onions, garlic and bell peppers into small bits so everything cooks the same time. Rinse your rice under cold water till it runs clear—this stops it from sticking. Measure out the rice and broth and have them side by side. Being prepped makes cooking go so much smoother.
Step 2: Cooking the Beef
Heat your skillet on medium-high. Add the ground beef and break it up with your spoon. Stir it around so it browns evenly, about 5-7 minutes. If theres too much fat, drain some so it dont get greasy. Make sure theres no pink left before you move on.
Step 3: Sautéing Vegetables
After the beef is browned, toss in the onions, garlic and peppers. Cook them for 3-5 minutes till the onions look see-through and the peppers get soft. Stir now and then so nothing burns—burnt garlic taste awful, trust me.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Stir the rinsed rice into the beef and veggies mixture. Pour in the broth and sprinkle in salt, pepper, paprika and cumin. Mix well so the rice is spread out. Turn up the heat just till it bubbles, then lower it, cover the pan, and let it simmer.
Step 5: Simmering the Skillet
Let everything simmer for 18-20 minutes, or till the rice is soft and most of the liquid is gone. Dont lift the lid too much or you lose the steam thats cooking the rice. To check, lift the lid quick and fluff the rice with a fork—if it seems dry add a little more broth or water and cook longer.
Step 6: Adding Optional Ingredients
If you wanna punch up the flavor, now is the time. Stir in grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for creaminess. You can also mix in peas, corn, spinach or beans to get more veggies. Make it how you like—theres no rules.
Step 7: Serving Suggestions
Dish it up hot right from the pan. Top it with fresh parsley or cilantro if you have it. It goes great with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. For extra zing, add a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa.
Nutritional Information
This skillet meal gives about 400 calories per serving, with 25g protein, 15g fat, and 45g carbs. To make it healthier, use leaner meat, add more veggies, or sub brown rice for more fiber. Its a simple way to boost nutrition without losing flavour.
Variations of the Recipe
Different Types of Rice
You can swap out rice to change the texture and taste. White and brown rice are the usual, but try quinoa for more protein or cauliflower rice if youre cutting carbs. Every change gives it a new twist.
Spice and Flavor Modifications
Play with spices to get diferent tastes. For a taco-spin, add chili powder, cumin and diced tomatoes. Want Mediterranean? Mix in oregano, basil and top with feta. Little tweaks make the same dish feel fresh.
Tips for the Best Skillet Dish
Follow the rice package times but remember broth can change cook times so watch it. Dont overcook your beef or it get dry. Let leftovers cool before sealing them in an airtight container—this way youll recieve better texture when you reheat. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
FAQs
What can I serve with Ground Beef and Rice Skillet?
Its good with a green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread. You could also add yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.
How long can I store leftovers?
Keep it in the fridge in a sealed container for 3-4 days. For longer, freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Sure, ground turkey or chicken works if you want something lighter. Just make sure its cooked all the way through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The basic recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth and check labels on any extras like soy sauce. Always check to be safe.
Can I freeze the dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool, put it in a freezer safe container, then thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding some water or broth if it seems dry.
Conclusion
All in all, this Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is easy, filling and totally customisable to what you like. Its perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you need a quick meal. Give it a try and see how you can make it your new family fave!
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or sauté pan
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Lid for skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup rice uncooked, long grain or white
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup bell pepper diced (any color)
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces, with juice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, then add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the beef with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine with the vegetables.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring well to mix it with the beef and vegetables.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
