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Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet

  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Get dinner on the table fast with this Perfect Ground Beef and Rice Skillet — a one-pan, cheesy, satisfying dish packed with tender ground beef, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and savory vegetables. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner, quick weeknight meal, or hearty comfort food, this skillet recipe fits the bill. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or when you’re short on time but still want full flavor. This recipe is one of those easy recipes you’ll come back to again and again for its simplicity and bold, comforting taste. Try it tonight and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup — perfect for those looking for dinner ideas or a quick lunch.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups beef broth

1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained

1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Push the beef to the side. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.

3. Add paprika, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in drained tomatoes and mix well.

4. Add uncooked rice and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.

5. Once the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover and let melt for 2–3 minutes.

6. Turn off the heat, garnish with parsley, and serve warm straight from the skillet.


Notes

Use cooked rice to save time; add it near the end and adjust broth as needed.

Swap beef with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

For extra texture and flavor, top with crushed tortilla chips before serving.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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