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 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 cup onion, chopped; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Classics

I love cooking quick meals that don't compromise on flavor, and this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a perfect example. It's a one-pan dish that brings together savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables in under 30 minutes. The harmony of spices elevates the simple ingredients into a comforting meal that my whole family enjoys. It’s become my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when I want to whip up something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:58:13.047Z

When I first made this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together without sacrificing taste. The secret is in using a mix of spices that enhance the beef and vegetables while keeping it simple. I usually add whatever veggies I have on hand, and they always seem to work out well.

One standout tip is to toast the rice a bit in the pan before adding in the broth—it really brings a nuttiness that complements the dish beautifully. I've served this skillet to friends, and it’s always a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
One-pan cleanup makes dinner a breeze
Versatile with ingredients, allowing for customization

Understanding the Ingredients

In this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, each ingredient serves a specific purpose that enhances the overall dish. The ground beef not only provides protein but also contributes a rich, savory flavor that forms the foundation of the meal. When choosing ground beef, I recommend using 80/20 (meat to fat ratio) for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner cuts might make the dish dry, while fattier blends could leave it greasy.

The rice is another star ingredient in this dish; it absorbs all the flavorful liquids while cooking, resulting in a fluffy texture. Long-grain rice works best here because it remains separate and doesn’t turn gummy. If you’re short on time, consider using instant rice—just adjust the cooking time accordingly and add it at the end of the simmering process, allowing it to soak up the remaining moisture.

Cooking Technique Insights

Sautéing the onions and bell peppers properly is crucial to developing flavor before the beef is added. Make sure the vegetables are softened and slightly translucent, which typically takes around 5 minutes over medium heat. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish, so don’t rush this step. If you find the vegetables sticking, adding a splash of broth can help them cook evenly without burning.

When browning the beef, break it apart reasonably small; larger chunks can lead to uneven cooking. You'll want to ensure that the beef is cooked through without any pink left, which generally takes about 5-7 minutes. Draining excess fat is essential for achieving a balanced richness. If your skillet has a lot of fat, use a spoon to remove it, but leave enough to provide flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain rice
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup onion, chopped
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are ready to go before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious skillet meal:

Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers, and sauté until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, corn, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer and Serve

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and serve hot.

Enjoy your meal, sharing with family or friends for a cozy dinner experience!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this dish with your choice of vegetables or spices. For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce while cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This skillet dish is fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare it a day in advance; just store the cooked meal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it appears too dry. Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and texture.

If you’d like to freeze it, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This is an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want a quick meal ready to go.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your available ingredients or dietary preferences. For a southwestern twist, add black beans and some diced jalapeños for heat. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for protein; just adjust cooking times accordingly, as they will require less attention and time.

Spice it up by incorporating different spices like chili powder for a smokier flavor, or a dash of soy sauce for umami depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley added just before serving can brighten the dish and add a refreshing finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Add an additional 10-15 minutes to the simmering time.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It actually tastes even better the next day!

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove.