Description
A quick and easy one-pan ground beef and rice skillet that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients, this budget-friendly meal is customizable and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups beef broth, low-sodium
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent and pepper softens.
- Stir in minced garlic, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add uncooked rice and stir to coat. Toast the rice for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (undrained) and beef broth. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
- After 18 minutes, check rice. If still crunchy, add 2-3 tablespoons water, cover, and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
For best results, do not lift the lid while simmering. Let the beef brown undisturbed for crispy bits. Toast the rice for a nutty flavor. Adjust liquid for desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 22
Keywords: ground beef, rice, one-pan, skillet, easy dinner, weeknight meal, budget-friendly