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 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Highlighted under: Effortless Weeknight Cooking

I love a good quick meal, especially when it's packed with flavor and can be made in just one skillet! This Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. With simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, and vegetables, we whip up a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes. It's not just about speed, though; the combination of spices and ingredients creates a hearty dish that satisfies every time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to weeknight dinner.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:22:13.027Z

When I first stumbled upon this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet recipe, I was skeptical about how much flavor I could pack into such a simple dish. After trying it, I was pleasantly surprised! Cooking the ground beef with onions and garlic first infuses the oil and rice with incredible flavors that just can't be replicated in any other way. It's a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that even the pickiest eaters enjoy.

Over time, I've experimented with adding different veggies based on what I have on hand, and I recommend you do the same! Adding bell peppers or corn gives it a vibrant color and even more nutrition. The key is to not rush the cooking stage, as allowing the rice to absorb all the juices is what makes every bite delightful.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bursting with savory flavors that please the whole family
One-skillet dish means less cleanup and more time to enjoy
Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient swaps based on preference

The Role of Beef

Ground beef is the star of this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, providing essential protein and a rich, savory flavor. Choosing a good-quality ground beef can elevate your dish remarkably. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a balance between flavor and leanness. If you're looking to cut down on fat, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead, which will also result in a lighter dish without sacrificing flavor when seasoned well.

When cooking the beef, ensure it is browned properly to develop those delicious, caramelized flavors. This process typically takes about 7-10 minutes on medium heat. If you notice the beef releasing too much moisture, increase the heat slightly to allow for evaporation. A perfectly browned beef will have a rich color and a delightful aroma that sets the foundation for the rest of the dish.

Perfecting Your Rice

The rice in this dish absorbs the flavorful broth, creating a cohesive meal. It's crucial to use long-grain rice, like basmati or jasmine, which will stay fluffy and not become mushy. If you're short on time, using quick-cooking rice can speed things up, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, generally reducing it to about 10-12 minutes.

After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet tightly. This allows the rice to steam properly, ensuring even cooking. If you leave the lid off or uncover too frequently, you'll lose steam, resulting in undercooked or uneven rice. Trust me; patience is key here—let the rice soak in all those delicious savory flavors for the best outcome.

Serving and Storing Tips

This dish is extremely versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enjoy it straight out of the skillet, or for a more presentation-ready version, serve it in bowls topped with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. To add a splash of freshness, consider a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving—it immediately brightens the flavors and enhances the overall experience.

If you have leftovers, this meal stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also freeze the skillet meal for up to three months. Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best results.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.

Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, paprika, and oregano. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Final Touches

After the rice is tender, stir in the mixed vegetables and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let simmer for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some shredded cheese on top before serving. You can also swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Ingredient Substitutions

The beauty of this skillet meal lies in its flexibility. Did you know you can easily substitute ground beef with finely diced mushrooms for a vegetarian option? This will not only reduce the calories but also add an earthy flavor that complements the spices. Additionally, you can swap the mixed vegetables with your favorite seasonal fresh veggies, such as bell peppers or zucchini—just adjust the cooking time to ensure they don't become overcooked.

If you're looking for a gluten-free version, make sure to check that your broth is certified gluten-free. Instead of traditional rice, you could also opt for quinoa, which provides a nutty flavor and additional protein. However, remember that quinoa will require different cooking time and liquid ratios, generally about 2 cups of liquid for every cup of quinoa, and a cooking time of around 15 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with this dish is the rice being too sticky or undercooked. If you find your rice is sticking together, it may be due to excess moisture or not rinsing it before cooking. To avoid this, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear before adding it to the skillet. If your rice remains undercooked after the time stated, add a little more broth or water, then cover and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

Another potential pitfall is overcooking the vegetables, which can lead to a mushy texture and loss of nutrients. To prevent this, add the vegetables toward the end of the cooking process, just a few minutes before you finish simmering the dish. This way, they retain a little crunch and their vibrant color, making the dish not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to increase the liquid and cooking time.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, broccoli, or any of your favorites for added nutrition.

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! You can add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to kick up the heat.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.