Print

Easy 30-Minute One-Pan Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Recipe for Quick Dinners

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

A quick and easy one-pan skillet recipe combining ground beef and rice with flavorful spices, perfect for busy weeknights and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef, preferably 80/20
  • 1 cup (190 g) long grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (480 ml) low sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup (240 g) diced tomatoes, canned or fresh (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Small handful fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up until evenly browned and no longer pink. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Do not overcrowd the pan or stir too frequently to allow a nice crust to form.
  3. Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the empty space and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
  4. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, and paprika over the beef and onion mixture. Stir to coat evenly and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
  5. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat the grains with oil and spices. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes until a nutty aroma develops.
  6. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir gently to combine and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Check the rice for tenderness and liquid absorption. If rice is still firm or liquid remains, cook uncovered for a few more minutes.
  9. Fluff the rice with a fork and sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottom skillet like cast iron or stainless steel to prevent hot spots and burning. Do not lift the lid during simmering to keep steam trapped for perfect rice texture. Rinsing rice removes excess starch and prevents mushiness. Optionally finish under broiler for 2-3 minutes to crisp the top layer. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for leaner protein, adjusting cooking time accordingly. Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time and more broth.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://platebelle.com/easy-30-minute-one-pan-ground-beef-and-rice-skillet-recipe-for-quick-dinners/