Ground Beef and Rice Skillet (30 Minutes)

Short Description

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Made with simple pantry staples, this dish is hearty, filling, and packed with comforting flavors. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table with minimal effort and cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for hectic schedules.
• One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable and easily accessible ingredients.
• Customizable – Easily tweak the recipe to suit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles.
• Family-Friendly – A comforting, hearty meal that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Uncooked white rice
• Beef broth
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Tomato sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Bell pepper
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Add the Rice and Seasoning: Stir in the uncooked white rice, bell pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute flavors.
4. Incorporate Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook Until Tender: Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Finish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a different take.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Toss in additional veggies such as zucchini, corn, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in more shredded cheese for an extra creamy and indulgent meal.
• Brown Rice Option: Substitute white rice with brown rice, but adjust cooking time as needed.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?

Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking, and use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan.

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, but adjust the liquid amount and cooking time accordingly since instant rice cooks much faster.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend work well, but you can use any melting cheese of your choice.

Can I make this dish in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Use the sauté function for the first steps, then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Add them in during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to ensure they are heated through.

Can I add beans to this dish?

Yes, black beans or kidney beans make great additions for added protein and fiber.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, chicken or vegetable broth can be used if you prefer a lighter flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure all ingredients, including Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is the perfect go-to meal when you need something quick, hearty, and delicious. With its simple ingredients, one-pan cooking method, and versatile flavor options, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a comforting, satisfying dinner with minimal effort!

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