Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet

Name: Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Fast Feast

I love making this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet when I need a meal that comes together in a flash. It’s a perfect one-pan dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also loaded with flavor. The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables makes for a comforting and satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:10:19.355Z

One evening, as I was rummaging through the fridge for something quick and easy, I discovered some ground beef and leftover rice. Inspired, I created this skillet meal that’s become a staple in my household. The secret is in the seasoning—I use a blend of spices that brings the dish to life! It’s hearty and flavorful, and I love that everything cooks in one pan.

What makes this dish particularly rewarding is its versatility. If I have any extra veggies on hand, like bell peppers or corn, I toss them in too. You can customize it to suit your tastes! I often serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for an added touch of indulgence.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup.
Flavorful combination of ground beef, rice, and spices.
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

      

Ingredient Insights

The base of this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the combination of savory ground beef and fluffy rice. The beef not only provides protein but also infuses the dish with rich flavors that marry beautifully with the spices. I recommend using fresh, high-quality ground beef—whether it's lean or full-fat—as it impacts the texture and juiciness of the final dish. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, but be mindful to adjust cooking times slightly as they may cook faster.

Rice acts as a wonderful vehicle for the flavors in this skillet. I usually prefer long-grain white rice for its fluffy texture, but you can experiment with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Keep in mind that brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust the beef broth and simmering time accordingly. Furthermore, rinsing the rice before cooking removes excess starch, helping to keep the final dish from becoming gummy.

Cooking Technique Tips

When browning the ground beef, it's important not to overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure a nice, even brown color. The Maillard reaction occurring during browning intensifies the flavor of the beef and adds depth to the dish. Aim for a golden-brown color and a slightly crispy texture to enhance the overall eating experience. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces for even cooking, ensuring no large clumps remain.

After adding the rice and broth, bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This quick boil is crucial for even cooking, followed by lowering the heat and covering the skillet to trap steam. This creates a sealed environment where the rice can absorb moisture evenly, becoming fluffy rather than mushy. If the rice isn’t fully tender after 15 minutes, add a splash of broth or water, re-cover, and let it cook for an additional few minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a quick and delicious meal:

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Enjoy your flavorful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your skillet:

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, then add the ground beef.

Season with salt, pepper, and paprika, cooking until the beef is browned.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot. Optionally, sprinkle with grated cheese before serving.

Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Adding some frozen peas or corn can also enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This skillet dish is great for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out and warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals, which can affect the texture upon reheating.

When preparing ahead of time, consider pre-chopping the vegetables and storing them in airtight bags for easier assembly during a busy weeknight. This shortcuts your prep time and makes it easy to throw everything in the skillet when hunger strikes. Just remember to adjust your cooking times slightly since your vegetables will have been stored—fresh vegetables tend to cook more quickly.

Flavor Variations

To customize the flavor profile of this skillet, experiment with different spices and vegetables. For a Southwestern twist, add corn, black beans, and a dash of cumin. Alternatively, for a Mediterranean flair, stir in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving. Each variation brings an exciting new dimension to the dish, making it an adaptable meal that feels fresh every time.

You can also alter the protein by swapping ground beef for ground lamb, sausage, or plant-based meat alternatives. If you're going vegetarian, consider substituting the beef with a hearty mixture of lentils and extra veggies, which offers a similarly satisfying texture while keeping the meal nutritious. The adaptability of this recipe is one of the key reasons I love it; it’s like a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it for a quick meal later.

→ What other spices can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding cumin or chili powder for a spicy kick, or Italian seasoning for a different style.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.