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 long-grain rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making this Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet when I need a meal that's not only delicious but also quick to whip up. With just a few simple ingredients, I can have a hearty dish ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a favorite in our household because it's customizable; I can toss in any vegetables I have on hand. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, creating a comforting experience that's perfect for busy evenings.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:52:17.738Z

When I first tried making a one-pan meal, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and satisfying it was. The beauty of this dish is that everything cooks together in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy. I usually like to use brown rice as it's healthier and adds a nice bite, but white rice works beautifully too.

What I really appreciate about this beef and rice skillet is its versatility. I often experiment with different spices, adding cumin for a warmer flavor or a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat. It’s a simple yet impactful way to enjoy a balanced meal without a lot of fuss!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Hearty, satisfying dish with a balance of protein and carbs.
Customizable with your favorite veggies and spices.

      

Ingredient Insights

The ground beef in this recipe not only provides a robust flavor but also important protein that makes the dish filling. I recommend using lean ground beef to minimize excess grease, which can make the dish too oily. If you're looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes and can still yield delicious results, keeping the overall texture satisfying.

Rice is a vital ingredient here, acting as the backbone of the dish. Long-grain rice absorbs the broth beautifully, providing a fluffy texture that complements the hearty beef. Keep in mind that if you use brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time, as it requires more liquid and has a longer cooking period, usually around 35 to 45 minutes.

Adjusting Flavors

The spices in this Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet are crucial for developing rich flavors. I love using garlic and onion powder for their convenience, but fresh garlic and onions can elevate the flavors significantly. If you choose to use fresh ingredients, sauté them in the oil before adding the beef to allow their aromas to fully develop.

Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs; smoked paprika, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick. Just remember to start with small amounts and adjust gradually, tasting as you go, so you can find the perfect balance that suits your palate.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This skillet meal is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to bring back moisture. You can also freeze portions for up to three months; just make sure to cool the dish completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

For serving, consider pairing the skillet with a side salad to introduce some fresh crunch, or cornbread for some comforting carbs. You can even top the dish with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor, transforming leftovers into new meals with ease.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 pound ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cook Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5 minutes.

Add Rice and Liquids

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Add Vegetables

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables. Cover and let them warm through.

Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste, adding more if you like a spicier dish.

Common Issues and Fixes

One common issue when making this dish is the rice becoming too sticky or mushy. To avoid this, make sure not to stir the dish too much once you’ve added the rice and broth. Let it simmer undisturbed so the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid without becoming gummy.

If you find the dish lacking in flavor after cooking, don't hesitate to adjust it. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of your favorite seasoning blend can enhance the overall taste significantly. Taste before serving, and don't be afraid to adjust seasonings as needed.

Customization Ideas

This Quick Ground Beef And Rice Skillet is highly customizable. You can incorporate any vegetables you have in your refrigerator, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Adding these just before serving can enhance both color and nutrition while keeping the dish vibrant.

For a new flavor experience, consider varying the protein. Shredded cooked chicken or pulled pork can be substituted for ground beef. Adjust the cooking times slightly if necessary, ensuring that the replacement protein gets heated thoroughly but does not dry out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and amount of liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What vegetables can I use?

You can use any frozen or fresh vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, corn, or broccoli.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free beef broth and check that your rice is certified gluten-free.