Print

Easy One-Skillet Ground Beef and Rice Recipe Perfect for Quick Dinners

one-skillet ground beef and rice - featured image
Print Recipe

A simple, hearty one-skillet meal combining ground beef and rice, perfect for quick weeknight dinners with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) 80/20 lean ground beef
  • 1 cup (190g) long-grain white rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Warm for about 1 minute until shimmering.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving some for flavor.
  4. Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, and the entire can of diced tomatoes with juices. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the skillet bottom.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  7. After 20 minutes, check if the rice is tender and liquids absorbed. If not done, cover and cook a few more minutes.
  8. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover for a couple of minutes to melt.

Notes

Use beef broth instead of water for richer flavor. Keep the lid on while simmering to ensure rice cooks properly. Avoid over-stirring to prevent mushy rice. If rice sticks, add a splash more broth or water next time. For a crunchier top, finish under the broiler with cheese for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: one skillet, ground beef, rice, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, comfort food, skillet dinner

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/easy-one-skillet-ground-beef-and-rice-recipe-perfect-for-quick-dinners/