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 jasmine rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup chopped bell peppers; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love making this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet when I need a hearty meal in a pinch. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, I can whip up a flavorful dinner that's satisfying and comforting. Ground beef, rice, and vegetables come together beautifully in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. I often customize it with whatever veggies I have on hand, which adds a personal touch to the dish. It's a go-to favorite in my household that everyone enjoys!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:04:13.675Z

When I first tried this Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, I was amazed at how savory and satisfying it turned out. The rich beef flavor, paired with the aroma of seasoned rice, filled my kitchen and drew my family to the table. To enhance the flavor, I like to use beef broth instead of water for cooking the rice, which takes the taste to another level.

Another tip I learned along the way is to add the vegetables towards the end of cooking, ensuring they remain crisp and vibrant. It's that perfect balance of textures and flavors that truly makes this dish shine. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be making it again and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients that create a delicious meal
One-pan convenience, making clean-up quick and easy
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

Mastering the One-Pan Technique

One of the best aspects of the Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is its one-pan cooking method, which streamlines the entire process. While the beef is browning, it's a great time to prepare your vegetables so they can be added seamlessly later. This technique not only saves you time but also infuses the rice with beefy flavor, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying. It's crucial to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic and onions, which can turn bitter if cooked too high.

When you add the rice and broth, ensure you bring the mixture to a boil before lowering the heat. This boiling step is important, as it helps to lock in flavor and moisture, allowing the rice to absorb the savory broth fully. Make sure your skillet has a tight-fitting lid to trap steam; this will result in fluffy rice and perfectly cooked ingredients. If you don’t have a lid, you could cover the skillet with foil, but a lid is preferred for the best results.

Customizing Your Skillet Meal

The versatility of this recipe shines in its ability to adapt to whatever vegetables you have on hand. While I love using bell peppers and peas, feel free to switch them out for zucchini, corn, or spinach—just keep the total amount similar to ensure even cooking. If opting for harder vegetables like carrots, consider sautéing them alongside the onions to give them a head start. This way, everything ends up cooked perfectly, contributing to a harmonious flavor profile.

If you're looking for a protein swap, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef without sacrificing flavor. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may yield a slightly drier texture, so consider adding a splash more broth or a teaspoon of olive oil when cooking. For vegetarian or vegan options, try substituting the beef with lentils or black beans, and use vegetable broth instead, keeping the same cooking times for rice and veggies.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups beef broth
1 cup chopped bell peppers
1 cup frozen peas
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until they're soft and transparent. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned.

Add the Rice and Broth

Stir in the rice, beef broth, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes.

Incorporate Vegetables

Once the rice is tender, add bell peppers and frozen peas. Stir gently and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.

Season and Serve

Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm, and enjoy this comforting meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies! You can also use brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Leftovers and Storage

Storing leftovers from your Ground Beef and Rice Skillet is simple and convenient. Allow the skillet to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of broth or a bit of water to ensure it remains moist. Heat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until everything is warmed through.

If you want to extend the life of your meal further, consider freezing portions. The skillet can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Divide it into smaller, individual servings for easy thawing. When ready to enjoy, either defrost in the refrigerator overnight or microwave straight from the freezer for about 5-7 minutes on high, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Quick Ground Beef and Rice Skillet, try topping it with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also introduces a fresh flavor that balances out the hearty meat and rice. Additionally, a squeeze of lime or lemon juice brightens the dish beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience.

For a complete meal, consider serving this skillet alongside a simple side salad or some crusty bread. The crispness of the salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting skillet. Alternatively, serve over a bed of lettuce for a unique twist that turns it into a delicious deconstructed wrap-style dish, perfect for summer meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it for a quick meal.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.