Dinner

Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe

ByHugo Harnd December 22, 2025December 24, 2025

Introduction

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a hearty, all-in-one meal that comes together quickly on the stove. Packed with savory beef, tender rice, and flavorful vegetables, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner that satisfies the whole family.

A black pan filled with a dish consisting of three main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of cooked rice and small diced tomatoes with a soft texture, the middle layer is ground cooked beef evenly spread across the dish with a crumbly texture and rich brown color, and on top is melted yellow and white cheese scattered with fresh green chopped parsley for garnish. Around the pan, there are halved red tomatoes, green parsley leaves, coarse salt grains, and a white cloth with red stripes, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 medium onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and ground beef. Break the meat apart as it cooks and season with salt and pepper until fully browned.
Step 2: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in the paprika and dried oregano to evenly coat the beef and vegetables with spices.
Step 4: Add the rice to the skillet, stirring well to combine it with the meat and veggie mixture.
Step 5: Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
Step 6: Cover the skillet and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 7: Fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Use brown rice instead of white, but increase the simmer time and liquid slightly according to package instructions.
Add frozen peas or corn in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color and texture.
Top with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro to brighten the dish before serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the rice has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up while reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of cooked ground beef that is brown and crumbly in texture, layered over a bed of steamed white rice with individual grains visible. Small bits of translucent cooked onions are mixed into the beef, and a piece of green vegetable, possibly pepper, peeks through near the bottom. The dish is placed on a white plate against a white marbled surface in the background, with the focus on the rich, textured meat and fluffy rice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain white rice?

Instant rice can be used, but since it cooks much faster, add it later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking. Follow the package instructions for timing and liquid adjustments.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked skillet meal in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Hugo Harnd