Ground Beef and Rice Skillet – Easy Recipes with Ground Beef
Ever had one of those days where even thinking about what to cook feels like a chore? That was me last Tuesday. The fridge stared back with that same half-used onion and a pack of ground beef, and I thought, 'Alright, let’s get creative.' This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is my go-to when I want something warm, filling, and doesn’t leave the kitchen looking like a war zone.
The best part? It uses stuff I almost always have lying around. Just rice, ground beef, and a few seasonings to make it all pop. You can dress it up or down depending on what you’ve got—maybe throw in some bell peppers if you’re feeling fancy. It’s comfort food with a shortcut, and I don’t say that lightly.
Whether you’re a college student juggling assignments or a parent with a toddler hanging off one arm, this one-skillet wonder hits the spot. And hey, if you’re anything like me, you'll appreciate how you only have one pan to wash afterward. Because let's face it—washing dishes is no one’s idea of a good time.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until it begins to brown, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Toss in chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion softens—about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the flavors mingle.
- Pour in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes. Give it a good stir.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is cooked through.
- If using, stir in frozen peas and cheese. Cover for 2–3 minutes until heated through and melty.
- Serve hot—preferably with something cold to drink.