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Easy One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice Skillet: Best Dinner Recipe

ground beef and rice skillet - featured image

A quick and easy one-pan ground beef and rice skillet that comes together in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, this comforting meal is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
  • 2 cups beef broth, low-sodium
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Spoon off all but about 1 tablespoon of excess fat.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Toast the rice: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for 1-2 minutes until it smells nutty and looks slightly translucent at the edges.
  4. Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Add paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits.
  5. Bring to a boil, then simmer: Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  6. Check and finish: After 18 minutes, remove the lid and check the rice. It should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If still firm, cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes. If using frozen peas, stir them in now and let warm through for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Rest and serve: Remove from heat and let sit, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve straight from the skillet.

Notes

Don’t skip toasting the rice—it prevents mushiness. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat. Resist lifting the lid during simmering. If rice is still crunchy after 20 minutes, add 1/4 cup more broth, cover, and cook 5 more minutes. Season in layers and adjust salt at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan ground beef and rice, easy weeknight dinner, ground beef skillet, one pan meal, quick dinner recipe